Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Layered Delight: The dessert features a buttery walnut crust, a smooth cream cheese layer, and a creamy pistachio pudding topping, creating a delightful combination of flavors.
Festive Appeal: Its green hue and rich flavors make it an ideal addition to holiday celebrations.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this dessert is accessible for both novice and experienced bakers.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and refrigerate, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1¼ cups biscuit/baking mix
½ cup chopped walnuts
1 tablespoon brown sugar
6 tablespoons cold butter

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped

For the Pistachio Pudding Layer:

2½ cups cold 2% milk
2 packages (3.4 ounces each) instant pistachio pudding mix

For Garnish:

Sweetened whipped cream
Chocolate curls (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Crust: In a small bowl, combine the biscuit mix, chopped walnuts, and brown sugar. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Bake the Crust: Press the mixture into an ungreased 13×9-inch baking pan. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly browned. Allow it to cool on a wire rack.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar until fluffy. Fold in half of the whipped cream. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
Prepare the Pistachio Pudding Layer: In another bowl, whisk together the cold 2% milk and the two packages of instant pistachio pudding mix for 2 minutes. Let it stand until it softens, about 2 minutes. Spread this pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer.
Chill: Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Serve: Before serving, garnish with sweetened whipped cream and, if desired, chocolate curls.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 15 servings.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes

Variations

Nut-Free Option: Replace the walnut crust with a graham cracker crust for a nut-free version.
Flavor Twist: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the cream cheese layer for a subtle almond flavor.
Fruit Addition: Top the dessert with fresh berries or a drizzle of raspberry sauce for added freshness and color.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration: Store any leftover dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy layers.
Serving: Serve chilled. If the dessert thickens upon refrigeration, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut in the crust?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile.

Is it necessary to use instant pistachio pudding mix?

Yes, instant pistachio pudding mix is essential for achieving the desired texture and flavor in this dessert.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dessert is ideal for making ahead and refrigerating, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute 2% milk with whole milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk.

How can I make the dessert sweeter?

You can adjust the sweetness by adding more confectioners’ sugar to the cream cheese layer or the pudding mixture, according to your taste.

Can I use a pre-made crust?

Yes, you can use a store-bought graham cracker or shortbread crust as a convenient alternative.

How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the cream cheese layer, and ensure each layer is spread evenly to prevent moisture from seeping through.

Can I add chocolate chips to the dessert?

Yes, folding in mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese layer can add a delightful chocolatey texture.

Is this dessert suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this dessert is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat or meat products.

How can I make the dessert more festive?

Garnish with seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds, or sprinkle edible gold dust on top for a festive touch.

Conclusion

The Holiday Pistachio Dessert is a perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and flavorful layers that will make your holiday gatherings even more special. Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or guests, this dessert offers a festive and indulgent treat that everyone will enjoy. The make-ahead convenience ensures you can enjoy the event without stress, and the beautiful presentation makes it a standout addition to your spread. Give it a try and watch it become a holiday favorite!

Holiday Pistachio Dessert

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Delight your guests with this festive Holiday Pistachio Dessert, featuring a buttery walnut crust, a creamy cream cheese filling, and a rich pistachio pudding topping. This layered treat is perfect for holiday gatherings, combining a blend of textures and flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 15 servings
Category: Holiday Pistachio Dessert Delight your guests with this festive Holiday Pistachio Dessert, a layered treat that combines a buttery walnut crust, a creamy cream cheese filling, and a rich pistachio pudding topping. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this dessert offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Why You’ll Love This Recipe Layered Delight: The dessert features a buttery walnut crust, a smooth cream cheese layer, and a creamy pistachio pudding topping, creating a delightful combination of flavors. Festive Appeal: Its green hue and rich flavors make it an ideal addition to holiday celebrations. The Guardian +1 New York Post +1 Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this dessert is accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and refrigerate, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Ingredients For the Crust: 1¼ cups biscuit/baking mix ½ cup chopped walnuts 1 tablespoon brown sugar 6 tablespoons cold butter For the Cream Cheese Layer: 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened Taste of Home 1 cup confectioners' sugar 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped For the Pistachio Pudding Layer: 2½ cups cold 2% milk 2 packages (3.4 ounces each) instant pistachio pudding mix Taste of Home +1 Wikipedia +1 For Garnish: Sweetened whipped cream Chocolate curls (optional) (Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.) Directions Prepare the Crust: In a small bowl, combine the biscuit mix, chopped walnuts, and brown sugar. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Bake the Crust: Press the mixture into an ungreased 13x9-inch baking pan. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly browned. Allow it to cool on a wire rack. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of confectioners' sugar until fluffy. Fold in half of the whipped cream. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled crust. Prepare the Pistachio Pudding Layer: In another bowl, whisk together the cold 2% milk and the two packages of instant pistachio pudding mix for 2 minutes. Let it stand until it softens, about 2 minutes. Spread this pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer. Taste of Home Chill: Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving. Serve: Before serving, garnish with sweetened whipped cream and, if desired, chocolate curls. Servings and Timing Servings: This recipe yields approximately 15 servings. Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Chilling Time: 4 hours Total Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes Variations Nut-Free Option: Replace the walnut crust with a graham cracker crust for a nut-free version. Flavor Twist: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the cream cheese layer for a subtle almond flavor. Fruit Addition: Top the dessert with fresh berries or a drizzle of raspberry sauce for added freshness and color. Storage and Reheating Refrigeration: Store any leftover dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing: Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy layers. Serving: Serve chilled. If the dessert thickens upon refrigeration, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. FAQs Can I use a different type of nut in the crust? Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile. Is it necessary to use instant pistachio pudding mix? Yes, instant pistachio pudding mix is essential for achieving the desired texture and flavor in this dessert. Taste of Home +1 Wikipedia +1 Can I make this dessert ahead of time? Absolutely! This dessert is ideal for making ahead and refrigerating, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Can I use a different type of milk? Yes, you can substitute 2% milk with whole milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk. How can I make the dessert sweeter? You can adjust the sweetness by adding more confectioners' sugar to the cream cheese layer or the pudding mixture, according to your taste. Can I use a pre-made crust? Yes, you can use a store-bought graham cracker or shortbread crust as a convenient alternative. How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy? Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the cream cheese layer, and ensure each layer is spread evenly to prevent moisture from seeping through. Can I add chocolate chips to the dessert? Yes, folding in mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese layer can add a delightful chocolatey texture. Is this dessert suitable for vegetarians? Yes, this dessert is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat or meat products. How can I make the dessert more festive? Garnish with seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds, or sprinkle edible gold dust on top for a festive touch.
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Prepare the Crust:
- In a small bowl, combine the biscuit mix, chopped walnuts, and brown sugar.
- Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Bake the Crust:
- Press the mixture into an ungreased 13×9-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly browned.
- Allow it to cool on a wire rack.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar until fluffy.
- Fold in half of the whipped cream.
- Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
Prepare the Pistachio Pudding Layer:
- In another bowl, whisk together the cold 2% milk and the two packages of instant pistachio pudding mix for 2 minutes.
- Let it stand for about 2 minutes until it softens.
- Spread this pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer.
Chill:
- Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Serve:
- Before serving, garnish with sweetened whipped cream and, if desired, chocolate curls.

Notes

Nut-Free Option: Replace the walnut crust with a graham cracker crust for a nut-free version.
Flavor Twist: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the cream cheese layer for a subtle almond flavor.
Fruit Addition: Top the dessert with fresh berries or a drizzle of raspberry sauce for added freshness and color.