If you’re craving a quick bread that feels like a hug in baked form, this Delicious Pistachio Bread with Greek Yogurt and Vanilla Recipe is exactly what you need. Moist, tender, and speckled with vibrant green chopped pistachios, it’s bursting with nutty flavor and subtle vanilla sweetness. Thanks to the Greek yogurt, this bread stays soft and moist while offering a lovely richness that elevates every bite. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast with a cup of coffee or as a light, comforting dessert, this bread will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet thoughtful ingredients is the secret to nailing this bread’s fantastic flavor and texture. Each component plays a role: flour provides the base, Greek yogurt and milk bring moisture and tenderness, while pistachios add a crunch and pop of color.
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: The main structure of the bread, creating that soft crumb we all love.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise gently for a light texture.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Works alongside baking soda to give the bread a perfect lift.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the pistachio flavor.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness without overpowering the delicate nutty taste.
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (preferably full-fat): The magic ingredient for moist, tender bread with a slight tang.
- ½ cup whole milk: Enriches the batter, supporting a soft crumb.
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and adds richness without heaviness.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure.
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the bread with warm, comforting aroma and flavor.
- 1 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped: Offers crunchy texture and bursts of green color throughout the bread.
- Extra chopped pistachios for topping: Adds a pretty finishing touch and extra nutty crunch.
How to Make Delicious Pistachio Bread with Greek Yogurt and Vanilla Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your bread slides out effortlessly once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the raising agents and salt are evenly distributed, which is crucial for that perfect rise and balanced flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the sugar and eggs until the mixture is light and creamy. Then stir in the Greek yogurt, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until everything is well blended. This mixture is what keeps your bread so tender and moist.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense, so aim for a fluffy, thick batter. Then fold in the chopped pistachios, saving a handful for the topping.
Step 5: Transfer and Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining pistachios generously over the surface to create that beautiful nutty crust.
Bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye towards the end to prevent overbaking and drying out the bread.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Let your pistachio bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool fully. This step helps the crumb set perfectly and makes slicing a breeze.
How to Serve Delicious Pistachio Bread with Greek Yogurt and Vanilla Recipe
Garnishes
For a visually stunning and flavorful boost, try garnishing slices with a light drizzle of honey or a dusting of powdered sugar. A spread of softened cream cheese or almond butter pairs beautifully with the nutty flavors.
Side Dishes
This bread is fantastic alongside fresh fruit like berries or orange slices for a refreshing contrast. For a cozy breakfast, serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut thick slices and toast them lightly, then top with ricotta and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for a fancy brunch option. You can also turn slices into mini sandwiches with mascarpone and fig jam for a delightful, unexpected twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, wrap your pistachio bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will keep fresh at room temperature for up to three days, perfect for enjoying throughout the week.
Freezing
This bread freezes wonderfully. Wrap slices individually or the whole loaf in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. It will stay delicious for up to three months.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked warmth, toast slices lightly or warm them in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. The fresh aroma of vanilla and pistachios will fill your kitchen all over again.
FAQs
Can I substitute the Greek yogurt with sour cream?
Absolutely! Sour cream will provide similar moisture and richness, although the flavor will be a tad different, slightly tangier but still delicious.
Is it possible to use roasted pistachios instead of raw?
Yes, roasted pistachios will add a deeper nutty flavor. Just be mindful not to over-roast them beforehand to avoid bitterness in the bread.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
While this recipe uses all-purpose flour, a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum can work in a pinch. The texture might be a bit different, but the flavor will still shine.
What’s the best way to chop the pistachios?
Roughly chopping the pistachios with a sharp knife gives you the ideal mix of crunchy big pieces and smaller nutty bits that distribute evenly through the bread.
Can I add other nuts or dried fruit?
Definitely! Chopped almonds, walnuts, or even dried cranberries can be added for variation, but the pistachios are really the star here, so keep them as the primary ingredient.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Delicious Pistachio Bread with Greek Yogurt and Vanilla Recipe in your baking repertoire. It’s simple to make but impresses with every bite, combining moist crumb, nutty crunch, and that irresistible vanilla aroma. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, this bread is guaranteed to bring smiles and requests for seconds. Give it a try soon—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Delicious Pistachio Bread with Greek Yogurt and Vanilla Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8-10 slices)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This moist and flavorful pistachio bread is a delightful quick bread made with chopped pistachios, creamy Greek yogurt, and a subtle hint of vanilla. Topped with extra pistachios for a nutty crunch, it offers a soft, tender crumb speckled with vibrant green nuts. Perfect as a breakfast treat or a light dessert, this bread balances richness and texture beautifully.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (preferably full-fat)
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract (or a mix of vanilla and a drop of almond extract)
Nuts
- 1 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
- Extra chopped pistachios for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk the Greek yogurt, whole milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully blended.
- Form the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the bread.
- Add Pistachios: Fold in the roughly chopped pistachios, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour and Top: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle extra chopped pistachios on the top to add an appealing crunch and decorative touch.
- Bake the Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve as a wholesome breakfast option or a light dessert.
Notes
- Use fresh pistachios to avoid any bitter or off flavors.
- Full-fat Greek yogurt and whole milk contribute to a tender and rich crumb.
- A small amount of almond extract can be used alongside vanilla extract but add sparingly to avoid overpowering the bread’s flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain a tender texture.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Quick Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American

