If you are on the lookout for a refreshing twist on your usual iced coffee routine, the Pistachio Cream Cold Brew is an absolute must-try. This delightful concoction marries the bold, smooth essence of cold brew coffee with a luscious, nutty pistachio cream that floats like a cloud on top. Each sip offers a harmonious blend of robust coffee flavor brightened up by the subtly sweet and creamy pistachio topping. It’s the kind of drink that feels indulgent yet light, perfect for warm days or anytime you crave an elevated coffee experience without the fuss. Trust me, once you taste this Pistachio Cream Cold Brew, it will quickly become your go-to refresher and a new favorite to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy of making this Pistachio Cream Cold Brew. The components are simple and straightforward, yet each one plays an essential role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, creaminess, and color that makes this drink so irresistible.
- Cold brew coffee (2 cups): The smooth, concentrated base that delivers a rich coffee flavor without bitterness.
- Ice cubes: Chill your drink to perfection and add refreshing crispness.
- Heavy cream (¼ cup): Provides the luxurious and thick texture needed for the creamy topping.
- Milk (2 tbsp): Lightens the cream and helps create a silky froth; choose any type you love.
- Pistachio syrup (1 tbsp): The star ingredient that brings that unmistakable nutty sweetness and green hue.
- Vanilla extract (½ tsp): Adds a warm, aromatic depth to the pistachio cream.
- Sugar (1 tsp): Sweetens the cream just enough—feel free to swap with your favorite sweetener.
- Crushed pistachios (1 tbsp, optional): For garnish, offering a satisfying crunch and intensified nutty flavor.
How to Make Pistachio Cream Cold Brew
Step 1: Make the Pistachio Cream
Start by combining your heavy cream, milk, pistachio syrup, vanilla extract, and sugar in a small cup or bowl. This creamy mixture is the magic behind the Pistachio Cream Cold Brew’s irresistible top layer. The pistachio syrup infuses the cream with its signature nutty sweetness, while vanilla and sugar balance the flavors perfectly.
Step 2: Froth the Pistachio Cream
Next, use a milk frother to whip the pistachio cream mixture until it transforms into a thick, foamy texture. This usually takes about 20 to 30 seconds. The frothy cream will float beautifully atop the cold brew, creating a stunning layered effect that’s just as pleasing to the eyes as it is delicious on the palate.
Step 3: Fill the Glass with Cold Brew
Grab a tall glass and fill it generously with ice cubes to keep your chilled coffee icy cold. Pour in 2 cups of your favorite cold brew coffee. The robust, smooth cold brew serves as the perfect base to contrast the creamy sweetness of the pistachio topping.
Step 4: Top with Pistachio Cream
Finally, gently pour the frothy pistachio cream over your glass of cold brew. The cream should float on top, creating a luscious layer that invites you to take a sip that’s half coffee, half whipped delight. This layering is what makes the Pistachio Cream Cold Brew both fun to drink and visually captivating.
Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy
For an extra touch of elegance and crunch, sprinkle some crushed pistachios over your frothy cream. It adds a lovely nutty texture that complements the smoothness beautifully. Give your drink a gentle stir before sipping to enjoy a perfect blend of all elements in every mouthful.
How to Serve Pistachio Cream Cold Brew
Garnishes
While crushed pistachios are the obvious garnish choice, consider adding a light dusting of cocoa powder or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to enhance depth and contrast. Garnishing doesn’t just make your Pistachio Cream Cold Brew look irresistible; it adds textural complexity and a little extra flavor boost that can elevate the experience.
Side Dishes
This drink pairs wonderfully with light and nutty treats. Think almond biscotti, buttery croissants, or even a slice of pistachio cake to keep the nut theme going. Fresh fruit, like figs or berries, can also offer a refreshing counterpoint to the rich creaminess of your cold brew.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Pistachio Cream Cold Brew in a clear, tall glass to show off its beautiful layers. For entertaining, layer it in small mason jars for portion control and a cute presentation. You can even float a thin slice of pistachio shortbread on the rim or place a small wooden stirrer with a dab of pistachio butter to dip and enjoy alongside the drink.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have extra pistachio cream, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to two days but be sure to give it a quick stir or re-froth before using it again, as it may separate or lose some of its frothiness.
Freezing
The cold brew coffee itself can be frozen in ice cube trays for future use, which makes assembling your Pistachio Cream Cold Brew even quicker. However, the pistachio cream doesn’t freeze well because it will lose its texture when thawed, so it’s best made fresh for each serving.
Reheating
This drink shines best cold, so reheating isn’t recommended. But if you want a warm version, consider making a hot pistachio cream latte by warming the cold brew and gently heating the pistachio cream—just skip the frothing step to avoid curdling.
FAQs
Can I use a different nut syrup instead of pistachio?
Absolutely! Hazelnut or almond syrup can work as alternatives, but pistachio really offers a unique, delicate flavor that’s especially delightful with cold brew coffee, so it’s worth trying the original for the full experience.
How do I make homemade pistachio syrup?
Making pistachio syrup at home is easy: simmer shelled pistachios with sugar, water, and a touch of vanilla until the sugar dissolves and the syrup infuses with nutty flavor. Strain out the nuts before using. It adds a fresh, authentic taste that elevates the Pistachio Cream Cold Brew.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Swap out heavy cream and milk for coconut cream or a creamy plant-based milk like oat or cashew milk. Use a vegan sweetener and ensure your pistachio syrup doesn’t contain any animal products. The froth might be a bit lighter but still delicious.
Can I prepare the pistachio cream ahead of time?
You can mix the pistachio cream ingredients ahead, but froth it fresh right before serving for the best texture. Pre-frothed cream will deflate and lose its airy appeal if stored for too long.
What’s the best way to froth the pistachio cream without a milk frother?
If you don’t have a milk frother, vigorously whisk the cream mixture by hand or use a hand mixer until light and fluffy. Alternatively, shake it vigorously in a tightly sealed jar for about 30 seconds to achieve a nice froth.
Final Thoughts
The Pistachio Cream Cold Brew is a playful yet sophisticated beverage that brings together the best of creamy textures and nutty sweetness with the smooth depth of cold brew coffee. It’s perfect for brightening up your day or impressing guests with something a little different. I can’t wait for you to try making this at home and discovering how wonderfully simple ingredients come together to create such a delightful treat. Your next coffee break will never be the same once you’ve had a taste of this Pistachio Cream Cold Brew!
Print
Pistachio Cream Cold Brew Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and indulgent Pistachio Cream Cold Brew, combining rich cold brew coffee with a luscious, frothy pistachio-flavored cream topping. Perfect for a cool, nutty coffee treat any time of day.
Ingredients
Cold Brew Coffee
- 2 cups cold brew coffee (store-bought or homemade)
- Ice cubes (as needed)
Pistachio Cream
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp milk (whole or any preferred kind)
- 1 tbsp pistachio syrup (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp sugar (or sweetener of choice)
- 1 tbsp crushed pistachios (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Pistachio Cream: In a small cup, combine ¼ cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons milk, 1 tablespoon pistachio syrup, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon sugar or sweetener. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Froth the Pistachio Cream: Using a milk frother, blend the mixture until it develops a thick, foamy texture, about 20 to 30 seconds. This airy cream will sit beautifully on top of the cold brew coffee.
- Fill the Glass with Cold Brew: Fill a tall glass with ice cubes to keep the drink refreshingly cold. Pour in 2 cups of cold brew coffee slowly over the ice.
- Top with Pistachio Cream: Gently pour the frothy pistachio cream over the cold brew coffee, allowing it to float on top and create a layered effect.
- Garnish & Enjoy: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon crushed pistachios on top for added texture and a nutty crunch. Stir before sipping for an even flavor blend or enjoy layered.
Notes
- Cold brew coffee can be prepared ahead of time or purchased pre-made to save time.
- Pistachio syrup can be replaced with homemade syrup made by combining pistachio paste with simple syrup.
- This recipe can be adjusted for sweetness by altering sugar or syrup quantities.
- Use any type of milk preferred, including plant-based options for a dairy-free twist.
- For a lower fat option, substitute heavy cream with a lighter cream or omit completely and just froth milk.
- Garnish with crushed pistachios to add crunch and enhance pistachio flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Cold brew and frothing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass (approximately 12 oz)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
