Certainly! Let’s dive into the details of this delightful Easy Pistachio “Better Than Tom Cruise” Dessert, which promises to be a crowd-pleaser with its creamy layers and nutty flavors.
Recipe Overview
Name: Easy Pistachio “Better Than Tom Cruise” Dessert
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Description: A nostalgic dessert updated with pistachio goodness, perfect for any occasion.
Recipe Category: Pie
Key Ingredients
- Crust:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 cups graham crackers, crushed
- Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed and divided
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- Optional Toppings:
- Chopped pistachios
- Chocolate shavings
- Crushed pineapple (optional layer)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 329.1
- Fat: 21.4g
- Saturated Fat: 12.2g
- Cholesterol: 59.6mg
- Sodium: 270.2mg
- Carbohydrates: 30.5g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 19g
- Protein: 5g
Recipe Instructions
-
Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13″x9″ baking pan.
-
Make the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, ground nutmeg, and crushed graham crackers. Optionally, add 1/2 cup chopped pistachio nuts to the crust mixture for added texture and flavor.
-
Bake the Crust:
- Press the crust mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 7 minutes, until lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside to cool completely.
-
Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Fold in half of the Cool Whip (about 4 oz) until well combined.
-
Layer the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust in the baking pan.
-
Prepare the Pistachio Pudding Layer:
- In another bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together the instant pistachio pudding mix and milk at medium speed until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
-
Layer the Pudding Mixture:
- Slowly and carefully pour the prepared pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer. Use a spatula to spread it evenly without mixing it with the cream cheese layer.
-
Add the Final Layer:
- Spread the remaining Cool Whip (about 4 oz) over the pudding layer. You can decorate the top with chopped pistachios, chocolate shavings, or any other desired toppings.
-
Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least two hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld together.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once chilled, slice into squares and serve. This dessert yields approximately 10 to 12 servings, making it ideal for gatherings and potlucks.
Optional Variation:
- Crushed Pineapple Layer:
- For a tropical twist, include a layer of crushed pineapple between the cream cheese and pudding layers. Simply drain canned crushed pineapple well and spread it evenly over the cream cheese layer before adding the pistachio pudding.
Serving Tips:
- Serve chilled straight from the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.
- Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios or chocolate shavings for an elegant presentation.
Conclusion:
This Easy Pistachio “Better Than Tom Cruise” Dessert combines creamy textures with the delightful crunch of graham crackers and pistachios, making it a standout treat for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dessert or bringing it to a potluck, its ease of preparation and irresistible taste will make it a favorite. Enjoy the blend of sweet and nutty flavors in every bite, and don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite toppings or additional layers for a personal touch.
