Pistachio butter recipes are taking over kitchens for a good reason—they’re simple to make, incredibly versatile, and full of rich, nutty flavor. Whether you’re making breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these easy pistachio butter recipes offer something for every taste and cooking skill level.
If you’re looking to level up your spreads, sauces, and sweet treats, you’ll find this collection of pistachio butter recipes both inspiring and practical. From elegant baked goods to nutritious smoothies, there’s a pistachio butter recipe that fits every occasion.
In this complete guide to pistachio butter recipes, you’ll learn how to make homemade pistachio butter using just two ingredients. Then, we’ll explore delicious ways to use it—both savory and sweet—plus vegan-friendly options, baking ideas, and more. You’ll also get tips for proper storage and answers to common questions like “What is pistachio spread?” and “What does pistachio cream taste like?”
Let’s kick things off by understanding what pistachio butter is—and why it deserves a permanent place in your pantry.
Table of Contents
Understanding Pistachio Butter and Its Benefits
What is Pistachio Butter?
Pistachio butter is a rich, spreadable paste made from shelled pistachios that are typically roasted and then blended into a smooth consistency. Unlike commercial peanut butter, which often contains oils, sugars, and preservatives, homemade pistachio butter can be made with just one ingredient—pistachios.
It differs slightly from pistachio cream or pistachio paste, which often include sugar and milk powder. Pistachio butter is more versatile and better suited for both sweet and savory applications. You’ll find it used in everything from breakfast bowls to pasta dishes.
The unique green hue and naturally sweet, earthy flavor make it not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Nutritional Benefits of Pistachio Butter
Pistachio butter isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrition. Here’s a breakdown of its health benefits:
Nutrient | Benefits |
---|---|
Healthy fats (monounsaturated & polyunsaturated) | Heart health, satiety |
Protein | Muscle repair and growth |
Fiber | Digestive health |
Vitamin B6 | Boosts mood and supports brain function |
Potassium | Regulates blood pressure |
Antioxidants | Fights inflammation and supports cellular health |
In addition to being nutrient-dense, pistachios have one of the lowest calorie counts among nuts, making pistachio butter a smart option for anyone watching their weight.
Because it’s naturally creamy, there’s no need to add oil or dairy, making it ideal for vegan and dairy-free diets. Just a tablespoon offers a balanced mix of protein, fat, and fiber—perfect for a midday snack or pre-workout boost.
Discover great ideas like our upcoming smoothie bowl and pasta sauce recipes that will show just how versatile pistachio butter can be.
Homemade Pistachio Butter Recipe (with Toasted Nuts)


Delicious Pistachio Butter Recipes You Need to Try Today
- Total Time: 20minutes
Description
Pistachio butter might not be as common as peanut or almond butter, but it’s easily my favorite. Its vibrant green color and distinct nutty flavor set it apart from the rest. The best part? Making it at home is incredibly simple—just pistachios and a good food processor or high-speed blender are all you need.
To help you get the smoothest, most flavorful pistachio butter possible, I tested over half a dozen batches. I played with different techniques—from blanching to roasting—and used various types of pistachios and appliances. The result? A foolproof method for making ultra-creamy, naturally green pistachio butter right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
2 cups / 250 g shelled pistachios
1 teaspoon toasted pistachio oil or other neutral-flavored oil, optional
fine sea salt, optional (to taste)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Spread shelled or slivered pistachios in a single, even layer on a baking sheet. Toast them for 5 to 10 minutes, just until they become fragrant—avoid browning. Slivered pistachios will toast faster, while whole or blanched ones may need a few extra minutes. Take the pistachios out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
While still slightly warm, transfer them to a food processor or high-speed blender. Blend until they break down into a fine powder, using a tamper if necessary to keep the mixture moving. Continue processing for 5 to 10 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides, until the pistachios transform into a smooth, creamy butter.
You can add a teaspoon of pistachio oil to help achieve a silkier texture.
Once your pistachio butter reaches the desired consistency, mix in a pinch of salt if you like, and pulse briefly to combine. Pour the pistachio butter into a clean, airtight jar or container to keep it fresh.
While refrigeration isn’t strictly necessary, it’s recommended to keep the butter fresh longer—about a month in the fridge, or even longer if frozen.
Notes
You can easily scale this recipe up or down based on the capacity of your food processor or blender. I found that a 1-cup batch worked well in the smaller bowl of my food processor, but in the blender, 2 cups was just barely enough to blend smoothly. For best results, 3 cups seems to be the ideal amount in most standard blenders.
- Cook Time: 10minutes
Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need
Making homemade pistachio butter is easier than you think—and it only requires a handful of ingredients and basic kitchen tools. Here’s everything you’ll need:
Ingredients:
2 to 3 ½ cups (9 to 16 ounces) raw shelled pistachios – the star of the show. Use unsalted and unroasted if you want full control over the flavor.
Pinch (or more) of salt – enhances the natural sweetness and nuttiness.
Optional add-ins if you’re feeling adventurous:
1–2 tsp neutral oil (only if needed for creaminess)
1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (for sweetness)
½ tsp vanilla extract
Tools:
- Baking sheet (rimmed)
- Oven (preheated to 350°F)
- Food processor or high-speed blender
- Spatula (for scraping the sides)
- Airtight jar or container (for storage)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Homemade pistachio butter comes together in under 30 minutes. Follow these steps to achieve that creamy, spreadable magic:
Step 1: Roast the Pistachios
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the raw pistachios evenly on a rimmed baking sheet. 2 . Roast them in the oven for 7 to 9 minutes, giving them a stir halfway through to ensure even toasting.
Keep an eye on them—they should turn slightly golden and smell deeply nutty.
Why this step matters: Roasting deepens the flavor and softens the nuts, making them easier to blend into a smooth butter.
Step 2: Let Them Cool
Once toasted, remove the pistachios from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes. You want them warm, not hot—this helps release natural oils during blending without overheating your machine.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Transfer the warm pistachios to your food processor. Add a pinch of salt, then start blending.
Blending process:
Phase 1: The nuts will turn into a fine flour.
Phase 2: The flour clumps together into a ball.
Phase 3: The oils release, and the mixture becomes creamy and glossy.
Scrape down the sides as needed. 3 . If your food processor begins to overheat, pause the process and let it cool completely before resuming.
. This process may take 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the power of your machine.
Don’t miss our guide to nut butter troubleshooting and blending tips.
Step 4: Store Properly
Once silky smooth, transfer your pistachio butter into a clean glass jar. Seal tightly and store in the fridge for up to 4 weeks, or on the counter for 1–2 weeks if you’re using it often.
Quick Tips Table:
Tip | Why It Helps |
---|---|
Use warm, not hot nuts | Prevents equipment damage |
Be patient during blending | Creamy texture takes time |
Add salt gradually | Adjusts flavor to taste |
Store in glass jars | Keeps freshness and flavor |
This recipe is clean, simple, and free from additives. Plus, it’s a fantastic base for all the pistachio butter recipes we’ll explore next.
Sweet Nut Butter Recipes

Nut Butter’s naturally sweet and nutty flavor makes it a fantastic base for desserts. From indulgent spreads to no-bake snacks, there are so many ways to add this green gold to your sweets.
Nut Butter Chocolate Spread
This recipe is a homemade take on chocolate nut spreads like Nutella—only way healthier, and with a deep pistachio flavor.
Ingredients:
1 cup pistachio butter (homemade or store-bought)
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
2–3 tablespoons maple syrup or agave
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine the Nut Butter and cocoa powder, stirring until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
To achieve a thinner consistency, mix in 1–2 teaspoons of almond milk or water.
Ways to use it: Spread it on toast, drizzle it over pancakes, or use it as a filling in baked goods.
These soft and chewy snack bars are simple to prepare and ideal for meal prepping.
Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
In a large bowl, mix the oats, pistachios, cinnamon, and salt.
How to use it: Spread on toast, drizzle over pancakes, or add to baked goods as a filling. It’s also great for dipping fruit like bananas or strawberries.
Pistachio Butter Honey Oat Bars
1 With a chewy texture and simple preparation, these snack bars are perfect for meal prepping. They’re full of protein and fiber, thanks to oats and nut butter.
Ingredients:
1 ½ cups rolled oats
½ cup pistachio butter
¼ cup honey or maple syrup
¼ cup chopped pistachios
Pinch of cinnamon
Dash of sea salt
Instructions:
1 . In a small saucepan over low heat, melt together the pistachio butter and honey until smooth.
2 . Place the oats, pistachios, cinnamon, and salt into a large bowl and mix well.
3 . Combine the wet mixture with the dry ingredients, stirring to ensure everything is coated.
4 . Press into a parchment-lined 8×8 pan. Refrigerate for 1 hour before cutting into bars.
These bars are chewy, naturally sweet, and packed with flavor. They’re ideal for on-the-go snacking, lunch boxes, or a pre-workout bite.
Looking for inspiration? Try these with add-ins like mini chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chia seeds.
Don’t miss our no-bake snack recipe collection for more creative bites.
Comparison Table: Sweet Pistachio Recipes
Recipe | Flavor Profile | Prep Time | Storage |
---|---|---|---|
Chocolate Spread | Nutty & Rich | 10 min | 2 weeks, fridge |
Honey Oat Bars | Chewy & Sweet | 15 min + chill | 1 week, fridge |
Savory Dishes Using Nut Butter

While pistachio butter is often associated with sweets and smoothies, it’s also a flavor-packed secret weapon in savory dishes. Its nutty richness adds a silky texture and depth to sauces, marinades, and dressings. If you haven’t tried pistachio butter recipes in your main courses yet, get ready for a delicious upgrade.
Nut Butter Chicken Marinade
Transform plain chicken into something truly crave-worthy with this creamy, flavorful Nut Butter marinade. It’s quick to make, rich in healthy fats, and adds a gourmet twist to weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup smooth nut Butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1½ pounds chicken breast or thighs
Instructions:
- Using a whisk, mix pistachio butter, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices in a medium bowl until creamy and cohesive.
- Add chicken and toss until fully coated. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
- Prepare the chicken using your preferred method—grill, bake, or sauté—until thoroughly cooked.
- Serve with rice, couscous, or roasted veggies.
This marinade also works well with tofu or tempeh, making it a flexible choice for plant-based cooks.
Pasta with Pistachio Butter Sauce
This pistachio butter pasta sauce delivers creamy, nutty, umami goodness—perfect for an elegant meal in minutes. And pairs beautifully with linguine, penne, or even zucchini noodles.
Ingredients:
½ cup pistachio butter
½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant milk)
1 garlic clove, finely grated
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast or grated Parmesan
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or chopped pistachios for garnish
12 oz pasta of choice
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, stir together pistachio butter, almond milk, garlic, lemon juice, and nutritional yeast or cheese.
- Simmer until smooth and creamy, adding pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Combine the pasta with the sauce and toss thoroughly to coat.
- Add extra flavor by topping with fresh basil, crushed pistachios, or a dash of red pepper flakes.
This pistachio butter sauce is not only delicious—it’s completely vegan if you skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. It’s a simple way to incorporate healthy nut butter options into your dinner rotation.
Nut Butter Breakfast Ideas
Enjoy a wholesome start with the deep, nutty taste of pistachio butter recipes that keep you full and fueled. Whether you’re into smoothies or something toasty, pistachio butter brings protein, healthy fats, and delicious depth to every bite.
Pistachio Butter Smoothie Bowl
This smoothie bowl is thick, creamy, and perfect for anyone looking for a vibrant, plant-based breakfast. Pistachio butter adds protein and richness without overpowering the fruit.
Ingredients:
1 frozen banana
½ cup frozen mango or pineapple
¼ cup Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt
2 tablespoons pistachio butter
¼ cup almond milk (more as needed)
Toppings: sliced banana, chia seeds, chopped pistachios, granola
Instructions:
In a blender, purée banana, mango, yogurt, pistachio butter, and almond milk until rich and smooth.
Spoon into a bowl and customize with the toppings you love.
Enjoy immediately for a cool, refreshing breakfast.
This smoothie bowl is not only satisfying but also loaded with nutrients, thanks to the pistachios’ healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.
Discover great ideas like this in our plant-based breakfast roundup with more nut butter options for mornings.
Toast with Nut butter and Banana
“Elevated by pistachio butter, a classic combination becomes gourmet—and the easy-to-follow recipe is great for early‑morning rushes, post‑workout bites, or a decadent dessert.”
Ingredients:
- 1–2 slices whole grain or sourdough bread
- 2–3 tablespoons pistachio butter
- 1 ripe banana, sliced
- Optional: drizzle of honey or maple syrup, pinch of cinnamon, chopped pistachios
Instructions:
- Toast the bread to your liking.
- Spread pistachio butter generously over the toast.
- Add banana slices on top, followed by any optional toppings.
Not only is this pistachio butter toast delicious, but it’s also a nutrient-dense way to kick off your day with potassium, fiber, and clean energy.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Nutty Paste Recipes

Nutty paste is naturally plant-based, making it a favorite among vegans and dairy-free eaters. It’s packed with healthy fats, protein, and flavor—no animal products needed. These two pistachio butter recipes are perfect examples of how indulgent and satisfying vegan treats can be.
Vegan Nutty Paste Cookies
Soft, chewy, and full of nutty flavor, these cookies are made without butter, milk, or eggs—yet still deliver on texture and taste. They’re perfect for a healthy snack or after-dinner treat.
Ingredients:
½ cup Nutty paste
¼ cup maple syrup
1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water (flax egg)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup almond flour
¼ teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
Optional: chopped dark chocolate or crushed pistachios
Instructions:
Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) again and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Mix the flaxseed with water and set aside for 5 minutes to allow it to thicken.
Mix the pistachio butter, maple syrup, flax egg, and vanilla in a mixing bowl until well combined.
Add almond flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Scoop tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheet and flatten slightly.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cookie edges are crisp and golden.
Let cool before serving.
These cookies strike the perfect balance—chewy centers, crisp edges, and a guilt-free recipe kids enjoy.
Dairy-Free Nutty Paste Ice Cream
Creamy pistachio ice cream is possible without dairy or special equipment.
This rich, no-churn version is egg-free, cream-free, and decadent.
Ingredients:
1½ cups full-fat coconut milk (from a can)
½ cup Nutty paste
¼ cup maple syrup or agave
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional: crushed pistachios or chocolate chips
Instructions:
In a blender, mix coconut milk, Nutty paste, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt until completely smooth.
Pour into a freezer-safe container and cover.
Allow to freeze for 4 to 6 hours, stirring intermittently for a less icy, more scoopable texture.
Scoop and serve with optional toppings.
This creamy treat rivals traditional ice cream without the dairy—and it’s surprisingly easy to customize with add-ins.
Conclusion: Get Creative with Pistachio Butter Recipes
Pistachio butter isn’t just a trendy ingredient—it’s a culinary powerhouse packed with flavor, nutrition, and versatility. From classic breakfast spreads and elegant desserts to savory sauces and snack bars, the uses for pistachio butter are nearly endless. Whether you prefer homemade recipes or are experimenting with store-bought spreads like Pisti, incorporating this delicious nut butter into your daily cooking brings both richness and a touch of sophistication.
Try a spoonful in your smoothie, drizzle it over grilled vegetables, or bake it into gooey cookies—the possibilities are deliciously endless. Now that you’ve learned how to make, use, and savor pistachio butter in a variety of recipes, it’s time to bring that nutty goodness into your kitchen.
http://Looking for inspiration? Try our homepage for more creative kitchen ideas.
Pistachio Butter FAQ Expert Answers
What is pistachio butter used for?
Pistachio butter is incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide range of sweet, savory, and snack-based recipes. It’s commonly spread on toast, bagels, and crackers as a nutritious alternative to peanut or almond butter. It adds richness to baked goods, such as cookies, muffins, and brownies. In savory cooking, pistachio butter enhances sauces, makes an excellent base for pesto, and complements meats like grilled chicken or lamb. It’s also used in smoothies, salad dressings, or simply eaten by the spoonful for its creamy texture and nutty flavor.
What does pistachio cream taste like?
Pistachio cream has a rich, luxurious flavor with a naturally sweet, buttery, and nutty profile. Its taste is smoother and less intense than roasted peanut butter, offering a mellow sweetness that works well in both desserts and savory applications. Depending on how it’s prepared—plain, sweetened, or spiced—it can take on different taste notes from earthy and creamy to sweet and indulgent.
Flavor profile of pistachio cream:
Nutty & Buttery – Dominant pistachio essence with a velvety finish
Mildly Sweet – Especially when paired with honey or sugar
Creamy Texture – Like a whipped nut spread
What is pistachio spread?
Pistachio spread is a sweetened version of pistachio butter, often containing added sugar, milk, or white chocolate. It’s similar in texture to Nutella but made from pistachios. Popular in Italian cuisine, pistachio spread is used as a filling in croissants, crepes, cakes, and macarons. It also doubles as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or toast.
Where is Pisti pistachio spread made?
Pisti pistachio spread is made in Bronte, Sicily, Italy, an area globally recognized for producing the finest pistachios. Bronte pistachios are prized for their intense aroma, vibrant green color, and naturally sweet flavor, making them the perfect base for luxurious spreads. The town has a centuries-old tradition of pistachio harvesting, and Pisti’s products proudly carry the flavor legacy of this region.