Hey there! If you’ve ever tasted something pistachio-flavored and thought, “Wow, I wish I could drizzle this on everything,” then you’re in for a treat!
This homemade pistachio syrup is silky, nutty, and just sweet enough. It’s perfect for adding to your coffee, drizzling over pancakes, or even mixing into desserts.
It’s super simple to make, and the flavor is so much better than anything store-bought.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming up with excuses to use it!
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup shelled pistachios (unsalted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1-2 drops green food coloring (for extra color)
Pro Tips
- Use fresh pistachios: Make sure they’re unsalted and fresh for the best flavor.
- Strain well: After cooking, strain the syrup carefully for a smooth texture.
- Control the color: Food coloring is optional, but it adds a fun touch. Use sparingly!
- Go slow on the heat: Simmer, don’t boil, to avoid burning the sugar or pistachios.
- Store it right: Keep it in an airtight jar in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- Blender or food processor
- Measuring cups
- Airtight jar or bottle for storage
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap pistachios for almonds or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor.
- Use honey instead of sugar for a richer, natural sweetness.
- Add a hint of cardamom for a warm, aromatic twist.
Make Ahead Tips
- You can make the syrup up to a week in advance. Just store it in the fridge in a sealed container.
Instructions
1. Blend the Pistachios
Add the pistachios to a blender or food processor and pulse until they’re finely chopped but not a paste.
2. Cook the Syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and chopped pistachios. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let it simmer gently for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the Mixture
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Strain it through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean bowl, pressing the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
4. Add Flavor and Color
Stir in the vanilla extract (and a drop or two of green food coloring if using) for added flavor and a pop of color.
5. Store and Enjoy
Pour the finished syrup into an airtight jar or bottle and let it cool completely before storing it in the fridge.
Leftovers and Storage
Store the syrup in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Shake it before using if it separates a little—it’s normal!
Conclusion
And that’s it! You’ve got yourself a jar of delicious homemade pistachio syrup that’ll make everything a little extra special. Try it in coffee, over ice cream, or even mixed into sparkling water for a pistachio soda! Let me know how you used it in the comments—I’d love to hear your ideas or help with any questions you have!
