Cold brew coffee has taken the coffee world by storm, and for good reason. Its smooth, rich flavor and low acidity make it the perfect base for creative twists. One of our favorite ways to elevate cold brew is with a luscious pistachio cream that adds a nutty, creamy touch without overpowering the coffee’s boldness.
This Pistachio Cream Cold Brew Recipe combines the best of both worlds—refreshing cold brew coffee and a dreamy pistachio-infused cream. It’s easy to make at home and perfect for warm days when you want a refreshing yet indulgent pick-me-up. Whether you’re a coffee lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your routine.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Pistachio Cream Cold Brew, we need to gather fresh and quality ingredients that balance bold coffee with luscious pistachio flavors. Each component plays a crucial role in elevating every sip.
For the Cold Brew Coffee
- 1 cup coarsely ground coffee beans – Choose a medium to dark roast for a rich, smooth flavor.
- 4 cups cold filtered water – Pure water enhances the clarity and brightness of the cold brew.
For the Pistachio Cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted shelled pistachios – Soaked overnight for a creamy texture and vibrant flavor.
- 1 cup whole milk or plant-based milk (almond, oat, or coconut) – Adds silkiness to the cream.
- 2 tablespoons simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water) – Balances the nutty richness with subtle sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances the aromatic profile of the pistachio cream.
- Pinch of sea salt – Amplifies the natural pistachio essence.
Optional Garnishes
- Crushed pistachios – For a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
- Whipped cream – Adds extra creaminess and indulgence.
- Drizzle of chocolate syrup – Complements pistachio with a hint of decadence.
- Ice cubes – For a perfectly chilled serving.
| Ingredient Category | Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cold Brew Coffee | Coarsely ground coffee beans | 1 cup | Medium to dark roast |
| Cold filtered water | 4 cups | Purity enhances flavor | |
| Pistachio Cream | Unsalted shelled pistachios | 1/2 cup | Soaked overnight for creaminess |
| Whole milk or plant-based milk | 1 cup | Choose based on preference | |
| Simple syrup | 2 tablespoons | Equal parts sugar & water | |
| Pure vanilla extract | 1/4 teaspoon | Adds aromatic depth | |
| Sea salt | Pinch | Enhances pistachio flavor | |
| Optional Garnishes | Crushed pistachios | As needed | For crunch and decoration |
| Whipped cream | As desired | Adds richness | |
| Chocolate syrup | As desired | Adds a decadent touch | |
| Ice cubes | As needed | To keep it refreshingly cold |
Equipment Needed
To craft our Pistachio Cream Cold Brew perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. It ensures precision and brings out the best flavors in every step of the recipe.
Here’s the list of must-have tools:
- Cold Brew Coffee Maker or a large glass jar with a lid
For steeping coarsely ground coffee. - High-speed Blender
To create the smooth and creamy pistachio cream using soaked pistachios, milk, and flavorings. - Fine Mesh Strainer or Nut Milk Bag
To strain the pistachio cream for a silky texture, free of any grit or solids. - Measuring Cups and Spoons
To ensure accurate measurement of coffee, pistachios, milk, syrup, and vanilla. - Mixing Bowl
For combining ingredients as needed. - Glass or Serving Cups
Preferably clear for showcasing the inviting layers and colors of the cold brew and pistachio cream. - Ice Cube Tray
If you prefer your cold brew extra chilled and refreshing.
We recommend using equipment made from glass or stainless steel where possible, to avoid unwanted flavors affecting our coffee’s delicate balance.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cold Brew Coffee Maker | Brew smooth cold brew coffee |
| High-speed Blender | Blend pistachio cream to silky smoothness |
| Fine Mesh Strainer | Strain pistachio cream for a clean texture |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Precise ingredient measurement |
| Mixing Bowl | Ingredient mixing |
| Glass/Serving Cups | Attractive serving |
| Ice Cube Tray | Prepare ice cubes for chilling |
Prep Work
Before assembling our Pistachio Cream Cold Brew, thorough preparation ensures every element reaches its full flavor potential. Let’s break down the essential steps to achieve the perfect base and luscious pistachio cream.
Preparing the Cold Brew Coffee
- Measure and Grind Coffee
Use coarsely ground medium to dark roast coffee for optimal extraction. We recommend measuring 1 cup (85 grams) of coffee beans. Coarse grinding prevents over-extraction and bitterness.
- Combine Coffee and Water
Pour the ground coffee into your cold brew maker or large glass jar. Add 4 cups (960 ml) of cold filtered water. Stir gently to ensure all grounds are saturated evenly.
- Steep Slowly
Cover the container and let it steep in the refrigerator for 16 to 20 hours. This slow extraction results in a smooth low-acidity cold brew that forms the strong yet mellow foundation of our recipe.
- Filter the Concentrate
Use a fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag to strain the cold brew into a clean container. Strain twice if necessary to remove coffee grounds completely, ensuring a clear and smooth concentrate.
| Step | Ingredient/Tool | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee measurement | Medium to dark roast beans | 1 cup (85 grams) | Coarsely ground |
| Water measurement | Cold filtered water | 4 cups (960 ml) | For balanced extraction |
| Steeping time | – | 16–20 hours | Refrigerated, slow extraction |
| Filtering | Fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag | – | Twice for clarity |
Making the Pistachio Cream
- Soak the Pistachios
Start by soaking 1 cup (140 grams) of unsalted shelled pistachios in water overnight or for at least 8 hours. This softens the nuts, releasing their rich flavor and making them easier to blend.
- Drain and Rinse
After soaking, drain the pistachios and rinse under cold water to remove any residual bitterness.
- Blend the Cream
Combine the soaked pistachios with 1 cup (240 ml) whole or plant-based milk, 2 tablespoons simple syrup, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt in a high-speed blender.
- Blend Until Silky Smooth
Blend for 2 to 3 minutes. The goal is a rich, creamy texture without any grit—a luscious pistachio cream that will meld beautifully with our cold brew.
- Strain for Extra Smoothness
Pass the cream through a fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag to remove any remaining pulp, ensuring a silky smooth finish.
| Step | Ingredient/Tool | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pistachio soaking | Unsalted shelled pistachios | 1 cup (140 grams) | Soak overnight or 8+ hours |
| Pistachio cream mixing | Milk (whole or plant-based) | 1 cup (240 ml) | Adds creaminess |
| Sweetener and flavor | Simple syrup, vanilla extract, salt | 2 tbsp, 1 tsp, pinch | Balances and enhances flavor |
| Blending time | High-speed blender | 2-3 minutes | Aim for silky smooth texture |
| Straining | Fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag | – | For ultra-smooth cream |
With these detailed prep work steps, we build the foundation for a refreshing Pistachio Cream Cold Brew that bursts with balanced flavors and irresistible creaminess.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to craft our bold and creamy Pistachio Cream Cold Brew with maximum flavor and richness. Each component builds an irresistible drink we’ll enjoy together.
Brewing the Cold Brew Coffee
- Measure and Grind Coffee: Use 1 cup of medium to dark roast coffee beans. Grind coarsely to preserve flavor during steeping.
- Combine with Water: Pour 4 cups of cold filtered water over the grounds in a cold brew coffee maker or large glass jar.
- Steep: Cover the container and steep in the refrigerator for 16 to 20 hours to extract smooth, low-acid coffee.
- Filter: Use a fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag to filter the concentrate. Transfer to a clean container and refrigerate until ready to use.
| Step | Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Measure and grind | Coffee beans | 1 cup | Medium to dark roast, coarse grind |
| Combine | Water | 4 cups | Cold, filtered |
| Steep | – | 16-20 hrs | Refrigerate |
| Filter | – | – | Fine mesh strainer or nut bag |
Preparing the Pistachio Cream Mixture
- Soak Pistachios: Soak 1/2 cup unsalted shelled pistachios in water overnight or at least 8 hours for softness.
- Drain and Blend: Drain pistachios and blend with 1 cup whole milk or plant-based alternative, 2 tbsp simple syrup, 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt until silky smooth.
- Strain: Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag to remove any bits, ensuring a luscious, creamy texture.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted pistachios | 1/2 cup | Soaked overnight |
| Milk (or alternative) | 1 cup | Whole or plant-based |
| Simple syrup | 2 tbsp | Adjust sweetness to taste |
| Vanilla extract | 1/2 tsp | Pure, high quality |
| Sea salt | Pinch | Enhances flavor balance |
Assembling the Pistachio Cream Cold Brew
- Fill Glass with Ice: Add ice cubes to your serving glass for extra chill.
- Pour Cold Brew: Fill the glass 3/4 full with our freshly brewed cold brew coffee concentrate.
- Add Pistachio Cream: Gently pour 1/4 cup of the silky pistachio cream over the coffee. Stir lightly to swirl flavors while preserving a layered look.
- Garnish (Optional): Top with crushed pistachios, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
“The magic happens when the rich pistachio cream meets the smooth, bold cold brew—each sip is an exquisite balance of flavors and textures.“
Use clear glassware to showcase the beautiful layering and invite all senses into the experience.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy the Pistachio Cream Cold Brew, consider these serving suggestions that elevate both presentation and flavor:
- Serve chilled over a tall glass filled with plenty of ice cubes to keep the drink refreshingly cool for longer. For best results, use freshly made ice cubes or pistachio-flavored ice cubes frozen from leftover pistachio cream to intensify the flavor.
- Layer the drink by carefully pouring the cold brew coffee first, then gently floating the pistachio cream on top. This creates a beautiful visual gradient and allows each sip to combine the robust coffee with the luscious nutty cream.
- Garnish with crushed pistachios sprinkled over the top for a delightful crunch and a pop of vibrant green color. Adding a small dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of dark chocolate syrup can add extra richness and appeal.
- Pair the drink with complementary snacks such as almond biscotti, pistachio cookies, or lightly salted caramel treats to enhance the nutty notes and provide a satisfying contrast.
| Serving Component | Description | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Ice Cubes | Regular or pistachio-infused | Freeze pistachio cream in trays |
| Layering | Coffee base with pistachio cream topper | Pour slowly for distinct layers |
| Garnishes | Crushed pistachios, whipped cream, syrup | Use sparingly for balance |
| Snack Pairings | Biscotti, pistachio cookies, caramel | Choose lightly sweetened options |
Pro Tip: Serve in clear glassware to showcase the stunning layers and rich color contrast of your Pistachio Cream Cold Brew—an irresistible invitation to savor every sip.
By following these serving suggestions, we make the cold brew experience not just delicious but visually captivating, enhancing the enjoyment of every refreshing glass.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Proper storage and smart make-ahead preparation are essential to preserving the vibrant taste and creamy texture of our Pistachio Cream Cold Brew. Here are our top strategies to keep your cold brew fresh and your pistachio cream ready whenever you crave this refreshing beverage.
Storing Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate
To maintain the smooth flavor and low acidity characteristic of cold brew, refrigerate the brew in a sealed glass container. This helps prevent flavor absorption from other foods and keeps the coffee fresh.
| Storage Element | Tips |
|---|---|
| Container | Use airtight glass jars or bottles |
| Refrigerator Life Span | Up to 2 weeks |
| Temperature | Keep at or below 40°F (4°C) |
| Avoid | Exposure to light, heat, or open air to prevent oxidation and flavor loss |
Storing Pistachio Cream
The pistachio cream retains its richness and creamy texture best when refrigerated promptly. Transfer it to a sealed container and stir gently before each use, as natural separation may occur.
| Storage Element | Tips |
|---|---|
| Container | Airtight glass jars or small pitchers |
| Refrigerator Life Span | Up to 5 days |
| Stirring | Shake or stir to recombine before adding to cold brew |
| Freezing | Not recommended (texture may degrade upon thawing) |
Make-Ahead Preparation for Quick Assembly
One of the beauties of the Pistachio Cream Cold Brew is its easy assembly when ingredients are prepped in advance. Prepare both components ahead of time and follow these tips:
- Brew coffee 16 to 20 hours prior and strain thoroughly.
- Soak pistachios overnight to soften for blending.
- Blend and strain the pistachio cream up to 2 days ahead.
- Store coffee concentrate and pistachio cream separately in the fridge.
- Assemble the drink moments before serving for optimal flavor layering and visual appeal.
“Prepping your Pistachio Cream and cold brew in advance means you can enjoy a gourmet coffee experience with minimal morning effort.”
Quick Reference Storage Chart
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cold Brew Coffee | Airtight glass, fridge | Up to 2 weeks | Avoid light, stir gently before use |
| Pistachio Cream | Airtight jar, fridge | Up to 5 days | Stir before use, do not freeze |
By following these Storage and Make-Ahead Tips, we ensure every glass of our Pistachio Cream Cold Brew tastes freshly made with the perfect creamy nutty flavor balanced with smooth bold coffee.
Conclusion
Crafting the Pistachio Cream Cold Brew is a rewarding way to elevate your coffee routine. With its rich nutty creaminess and smooth cold brew base, it offers a refreshing twist that’s perfect for warm days or anytime you crave something special.
By preparing the components ahead of time, we ensure each serving is quick to assemble without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying a quiet moment, this drink brings a touch of indulgence to your day.
Give it a try and savor the unique blend of bold coffee and luscious pistachio cream—it’s a delicious experience worth repeating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes cold brew coffee different from regular coffee?
Cold brew coffee is brewed with cold water over a long period (16-20 hours), resulting in a smoother, less acidic flavor compared to hot-brewed coffee.
How is Pistachio Cream Cold Brew made?
It combines cold brew coffee with a creamy mixture made from soaked pistachios, milk, sweetener, vanilla, and a pinch of salt, creating a rich, nutty, and refreshing drink.
What ingredients are essential for Pistachio Cream Cold Brew?
Key ingredients include medium to dark roast coffee, filtered water, unsalted pistachios, whole or plant-based milk, simple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Optional garnishes enhance flavor and presentation.
What equipment do I need to prepare this drink?
You’ll need a cold brew maker or jar, a high-speed blender, a fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag, measuring tools, mixing bowls, serving glasses, and an ice cube tray.
How long should I steep cold brew coffee?
Steep the coarsely ground coffee in cold water for 16 to 20 hours for optimal flavor extraction and smoothness.
Can I prepare the pistachio cream in advance?
Yes, store pistachio cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Stir gently before use.
How do I serve Pistachio Cream Cold Brew?
Serve chilled over ice, layer with pistachio cream, and optionally garnish with crushed pistachios, whipped cream, or chocolate syrup for a visually appealing drink.
How should I store cold brew coffee concentrate?
Keep cold brew coffee concentrate in a sealed glass container in the fridge for up to two weeks to maintain freshness and flavor.
What snacks pair well with Pistachio Cream Cold Brew?
Almond biscotti and pistachio cookies are great choices that complement the nutty flavors of the drink.
Is this recipe suitable for plant-based diets?
Yes, you can use plant-based milk alternatives like almond or oat milk to make the pistachio cream suitable for vegan or dairy-free diets.