If you have a soft spot for creamy, dreamy desserts that are as delightful to eat as they are to look at, then this Pistachio Pie Recipe is about to become your new favorite. With its luscious pistachio pudding base, a crunchy graham cracker crust, and a whipped cream topping dotted with cherries and crunchy pistachios, this pie is a celebration of flavor and texture in every bite. It’s surprisingly easy to put together yet stunning enough to impress at any gathering or to treat yourself on a cozy night in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows ingredients needed for a dessert on a white marbled surface. There is a graham cracker crust in a round white pie tin on the top left. Next to it on the right is a small green box of pistachio Jell-O and below it a silver-wrapped block of Philadelphia cream cheese. Below are eight bowls and containers arranged in a loose circle: a small white bowl with shelled pistachios, a white bowl with crushed pineapple in the center, a white bowl of milk, a white bowl of sugar, a white bowl of heavy cream, a small bowl of bright red maraschino cherries on the lower right, and a small dish with white powdered sugar. The colors are light and natural, with yellow, green, red, and white tones evenly spaced across the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Pistachio Pie Recipe comes down to a handful of simple, accessible ingredients that work together to create its irresistible taste and texture. Each element plays a key role in building creamy layers, adding sweetness, or lending that perfect balance of crunch and freshness.

Graham Cracker Crust: This acts as the buttery, crunchy foundation that holds all the creamy goodness together.
8 ounces Cream Cheese: Adds richness and a silky smooth base to the pie filling.
3.4 ounces Pistachio Pudding Mix: Brings the signature nutty pistachio flavor and a lovely green hue.
½ cup Milk: Essential to soften and blend the cream cheese with the pudding mix perfectly.
2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream: Divided for whipping—a fluffy topping and part of the filling that creates lightness.
4 Tablespoons Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the filling just right without overpowering.
1 8-ounce can Crushed Pineapple (drained): Adds a refreshing, tangy burst and a wonderful texture contrast.
3 Tablespoons Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream topping.
2 Tablespoons Pistachios (chopped): Adds crunch and visual appeal as a garnish.
12 Maraschino Cherries: Pops of color and a classic touch atop the whipped cream.

How to Make Pistachio Pie Recipe

Step 1: Soften the Cream Cheese and Combine Liquids

Start by placing the cream cheese, milk, and half a cup of heavy cream into a mixing bowl. Whip these together until the mixture is completely smooth and softened. This first step ensures a creamy base that sets the stage for the pistachio pudding to blend in evenly without lumps, giving you that irresistibly smooth filling.

Step 2: Mix in Pudding and Pineapple

Next, add your pistachio pudding mix and granulated sugar to the softened cream cheese blend. Beat until the mixture thickens nicely, then gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple. The pineapple adds a subtle sweetness and a juicy burst that balances the richness and enhances the texture beautifully.

Step 3: Pour and Smooth Filling into Crust

Pour this luscious pudding mixture into your prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This layer is the heart of your Pistachio Pie Recipe—creamy, flavorful, and filled with that nutty pistachio charm.

Step 4: Whip and Add the Topping

In a separate bowl, whip the remaining 1½ cups of heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This fluffy whipped cream topping is the perfect light finish to the dense, creamy filling. Spread it gently over the pie, smoothing the top carefully to create an inviting, cloud-like layer.

Step 5: Garnish the Pie

To make this Pistachio Pie Recipe truly shine, decorate with maraschino cherries spaced evenly around the edge and sprinkle chopped pistachios over the top. These garnishes not only add color and texture but also hint at the flavors inside, inviting everyone to dive in.

Step 6: Chill to Set

For the best results, refrigerate your pie for at least one hour, but preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the filling to firm up perfectly, and the flavors to meld into that dreamy pistachio experience you’re craving.

How to Serve Pistachio Pie Recipe

The image shows a slice of creamy green pie with three visible layers: a light brown crust at the bottom, a pale green smooth filling in the middle, and a thick white fluffy topping on top, sprinkled with small chopped nuts and decorated with one bright red cherry. The slice is served on a white plate with a delicate edge design, placed on a white marbled surface. In the background, the rest of the pie is seen in a silver pie dish, with a missing slice showing the same layers. A silver spoon rests next to the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While the classic garnishes for this Pistachio Pie Recipe are maraschino cherries and chopped pistachios, you can also experiment with a drizzle of white chocolate or a dusting of matcha powder. Fresh mint leaves create an elegant finish and add a refreshing aroma that complements the nutty flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs wonderfully with light, fresh accompaniments. A bowl of mixed berries or a crisp green salad with citrus vinaigrette balances the richness. For something indulgent, a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream adds to the creamy decadence of your serving.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re aiming to impress, serve your pistachio pie slices on pretty dessert plates with a few whole pistachios sprinkled around, or add a dollop of whipped cream piped artfully on the side. Miniature versions in individual glasses or mason jars make fun, shareable treats for parties and gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover slices of the Pistachio Pie Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days without losing their creamy texture or fresh taste. Make sure to cover tightly to prevent the pie from absorbing other fridge odors.

Freezing

This pie is best enjoyed fresh and chilled, but if you need to freeze it, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled dessert, reheating is not recommended. Instead, serve it cold straight from the refrigerator for that signature creamy coolness that makes the Pistachio Pie Recipe so special.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade crust instead of a graham cracker crust?

Absolutely! A homemade cookie crust or even a nutty crust made with crushed pistachios can add a personal twist, enhancing the flavors and textures of your pie.

Is it possible to use fresh pistachios in the filling?

While fresh pistachios add wonderful flavor, the pudding mix provides key thickening and that iconic pistachio taste. You can fold chopped fresh pistachios into the filling for extra texture but keep the pudding mix for the best results.

Can I make this pie dairy-free?

Making this Pistachio Pie Recipe dairy-free is a bit tricky because of the whipped cream and cream cheese. However, you can try substituting coconut cream and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, but be aware the texture and taste may vary slightly.

How long does the pie need to chill before serving?

For the creamiest texture and best flavor melding, chilling for at least one hour is essential, but overnight in the fridge is ideal.

Can I add other fruits to this pie?

Definitely! While crushed pineapple is traditional and adds a lovely tang, fresh berries or chopped mangoes can provide a delightful fruity twist that complements the pistachio flavor beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a Pistachio Pie Recipe that combines ease with elegance, delivering creamy, nutty, and just a little bit tropical flavors in every forkful. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply because you deserve a sweet treat, this pie is sure to become a treasured favorite. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love with its luscious layers and playful textures as much as I have!