Pistachio Pudding Homemade Ice Cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this Pistachio Pudding Homemade Ice Cream because it’s so creamy and flavorful. The combination of pistachios and pudding mix gives it a rich, velvety texture, and the flavor is perfectly balanced—nutty, slightly sweet, and a little savory, just like pistachio ice cream should be. Plus, it’s easy to make, and you don’t need an ice cream maker to create this delicious treat. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just because, this ice cream is a showstopper.

Ingredients

• 1 (3.4 oz) package pistachio pudding mix (instant)

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup whole milk

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup crushed pistachios (optional, for added texture)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Hint: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pistachio pudding mix, heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Whisk until the pudding mix is completely dissolved, and the mixture is smooth.

2. Stir in the vanilla extract. If you want extra pistachio crunch, fold in the crushed pistachios at this point.

3. Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or another freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula.

4. Cover the container with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the freezer. Allow it to freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or until fully set.

5. Once the ice cream is frozen, scoop and serve! You can top it with extra crushed pistachios, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings for added indulgence.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6-8 servings, depending on portion size. Prep time is about 5-10 minutes, and freezing time takes 4-6 hours. For the best texture, I recommend allowing the ice cream to sit out for a few minutes before scooping so that it softens slightly.

Variations

This ice cream is already full of flavor, but here are some ways to switch it up:

• Add a swirl: For a fun twist, swirl in some chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, or honey just before freezing.

• Use roasted pistachios: Roasting the pistachios before adding them to the ice cream will bring out their natural flavor and add an extra depth of taste.

• Make it dairy-free: You can make this ice cream dairy-free by swapping the heavy cream and milk with coconut cream and almond milk.

Storage/Reheating

This ice cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To keep it from getting icy, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the ice cream before covering with the lid. To serve, let the ice cream sit out for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly for easy scooping.

FAQs

Can I make this without an ice cream maker?

Yes! This recipe doesn’t require an ice cream maker, and the texture is still creamy and smooth. Just let the mixture freeze fully in the container, and it will set into a perfect homemade ice cream.

Can I use another flavor of pudding mix?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other pudding flavors, like vanilla, chocolate, or butterscotch, to make different ice cream variations. The method stays the same.

Can I use salted pistachios?

Yes, salted pistachios will work, but I recommend reducing the amount of sugar slightly to balance out the saltiness.

Can I make this ice cream without crushed pistachios?

Yes, you can omit the crushed pistachios for a smoother texture. The pistachio pudding mix will still provide plenty of flavor!

How can I make the ice cream softer when scooping?

If the ice cream is too hard when you’re ready to serve, let it sit out at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before scooping to soften.

Conclusion

This Pistachio Pudding Homemade Ice Cream is the perfect treat for anyone who loves the unique flavor of pistachios. With its creamy, smooth texture and rich, nutty flavor, it’s a delightful dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just indulging in a homemade treat, this ice cream will surely become a favorite. Enjoy every bite of this decadent, pistachio-packed dessert!