There’s something about a Pistachio Lush Dessert that always brings my family around the table with big smiles. It all started when my niece asked for a special dessert after a weekend meal, something creamy and nutty but not too fussy. I remembered this Pistachio Lush Dessert that had layers of creamy pistachio treat and a crunchy base, and decided to give it a try. The moment I served it, the room lit up — everyone wanted the recipe! Over time, this no bake pistachio dessert has become a regular in our meal rotation because it hits that perfect balance between indulgent and easy.
What really makes this Pistachio Lush Dessert stick around in my kitchen is how it feels like a special occasion dessert but doesn’t demand hours of preparation. The chilled pistachio dessert layers come together without oven time, making it a great pick for weeknights or casual gatherings. My family appreciates the subtle crunch and creamy texture, which is why this pistachio layered dessert has become a go-to for celebrations and quiet weekend treats alike.
I’ve learned a few tricks along the way to perfecting this Pistachio Lush Dessert — like making sure the pudding layer is just the right consistency and using fresh pistachios for that extra punch of flavor. If you’ve been looking for a dessert that combines lovely flavors with simplicity, this pistachio pudding dessert is an excellent choice. It’s all about bringing people together through food that’s both approachable and memorable.
If you’re curious to try a Pistachio Lush Dessert that’s a little different from the usual chocolate or vanilla treats, this recipe is absolutely worth making. It’s a creamy pistachio treat with layers that let you enjoy every bite. I invite you to make it for your family and see how it becomes a new favorite in your dessert lineup.
What You’ll Need
Making this Pistachio Lush Dessert is easy when you have the right ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/3 cups chopped nuts (pistachios or mixed nuts)
- 12 oz frozen whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
- 1 package (9 oz) shortbread cookies

For the best Pistachio Lush Dessert, I recommend using high-quality pistachio pudding mix because it really brings out that nutty, creamy flavor. You’ll find everything for this Pistachio Lush Dessert at your regular grocery store, usually in the baking or pudding aisle.
If you want to swap out the shortbread cookies, graham crackers work well too, though I find the buttery crunch of shortbread pairs perfectly with the creamy pistachio treat layers. For a dairy-free version, try a whipped coconut topping instead of the frozen whipped topping, and almond milk with a pistachio pudding mix that’s compatible with non-dairy milks.
When chopping nuts, my family prefers fresh, lightly toasted pistachios for the texture and the extra flavor boost. If you’re short on time, you can buy pre-chopped nuts, but be sure they’re fresh to keep the Pistachio Lush Dessert tasting bright and crisp.
Here’s a Pistachio Lush Dessert secret that makes all the difference: soften your cream cheese and butter well before mixing so that your layers come together smoothly without lumps. This little step saves you time later and gives the dessert a nice, creamy finish.
How to Make It
Here’s how I make my Pistachio Lush Dessert work beautifully for my family. It typically takes me about 30 minutes to assemble this no bake pistachio dessert, plus a few hours to chill.
- Start by mixing the instant pistachio pudding mix with cold milk. Whisk well until the pudding thickens — you want that creamy pistachio pudding dessert texture that holds softly.
- In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually and keep mixing until the blend is fluffy and creamy.
- Fold in the thawed whipped topping to the cream cheese mixture gently. This combines into the creamy pistachio treat layer that gives the dessert its lightness.
- In a 9×13-inch dish, lay down a single layer of shortbread cookies to make the base. For a pistachio layered dessert, this crunchy base layer balances the creamy toppings nicely.
- Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cookie layer. Then sprinkle half the chopped pistachios on top.
- Next, spread the entire layer of prepared pistachio pudding over the nuts.
- Repeat with the remaining cream cheese mixture and another sprinkling of nuts.
- Finish with a generous layer of whipped topping, smoothing it over the entire dish.
- Chill the Pistachio Lush Dessert in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight. You’ll know it’s ready when the layers set into a firm, sliceable treat.
Your kitchen will smell lightly of buttery cookies and nuts while assembling this Pistachio Lush Dessert, making the wait even sweeter.
If your Pistachio Lush Dessert looks a little soft after chilling, don’t worry. Every fridge is different, so give it a bit longer to firm up. The layered nature of this dessert means the flavors meld beautifully during that chill time.
Here’s where I used to mess up my Pistachio Lush Dessert – forgetting to let the pudding set properly before layering. Now I always remember to whisk it until thick and give it some rest, which makes all the difference.
While your Pistachio Lush Dessert is chilling, you’ll have time to set the table, talk with family, or prepare a simple main dish to round out your meal.
Serving Ideas
Everyone in my family reaches for seconds when this Pistachio Lush Dessert comes out with a cup of coffee or after a casual dinner. Its flavors are fresh and satisfying without being overly rich.
I find this Pistachio Lush Dessert pairs wonderfully with light, fruity sides—like a simple berry salad or fresh pineapple chunks. The nutty sweetness of the dessert balances well with fresh fruit.
This dessert is perfect for special occasions like birthdays, family gatherings, or holiday meals. It’s also an impressive no bake pistachio dessert when you want something both easy and elegant.
To make the presentation a bit more special, sprinkle whole pistachios or finely chopped nuts on top just before serving. Adding a few fresh mint leaves also brightens the look and flavor.

If you happen to have leftovers, cover the dessert tightly and keep refrigerated. It stays fresh and creamy for up to three days. My family usually finishes it quickly, but it’s nice knowing it keeps well.
For a fun twist, I’ve tried adding a layer of crushed chocolate sandwich cookies to replace some of the nuts. It gives a slight chocolate crunch which was a hit with the kids. Another variation is to swirl in raspberry jam between some layers, creating a pistachio layered dessert with a fruity surprise.
If your family loves this, they’ll also enjoy the Mint Oreo Brownies on MomsGate, which bring a cool minty note to your dessert table.
Your Questions Answered
Q: Can I make this Pistachio Lush Dessert ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, making it the day before makes it even better as the flavors have time to meld. Just keep it covered and chilled.
Q: What if I don’t have cream cheese for my Pistachio Lush Dessert?
A: You can substitute with mascarpone or ricotta cheese, but the texture and tanginess will change slightly. Cream cheese gives that signature creamy richness.
Q: How do I store leftover Pistachio Lush Dessert?
A: Keep leftovers covered in the fridge. It stays fresh and creamy for 3 days. You can also freeze it, but the texture may be a bit different upon thawing.
Q: Is there a dairy-free version of this Pistachio Lush Dessert?
A: Yes! Use non-dairy whipped topping and a suitable non-dairy milk for the pudding mix. Coconut or almond-based toppings work best.
Q: Can I use other nuts in place of pistachios?
A: Definitely. Walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch, but you’ll lose the pistachio flavor that makes this dessert unique.
Q: How do I keep the layers neat in this pistachio layered dessert?
A: Use a spatula to spread each layer gently and chill for enough time between steps if possible. Patience helps the layers stay distinct.
Q: What brand of pistachio pudding is best for the Pistachio Lush Dessert?
A: I recommend a brand with natural pistachio flavor and minimal artificial colors for the best taste and appearance.
For more ideas on layered pistachio desserts, you might enjoy this layered Pistachio Pudding Dessert from My Baking Addiction or check out the Pistachio Lush Dessert recipe on Lemon Tree Dwelling.
The Final Word
This Pistachio Lush Dessert has earned a permanent spot in my family’s recipe collection because it balances simple prep with a crowd-pleasing flavor. Its layers of creamy pistachio treat and crunchy base create a texture everyone loves.
My Pistachio Lush Dessert Tips:
– Always soften cream cheese and butter for a smooth, creamy layer.
– Let the pudding set before layering to keep everything stable.
– Chill for several hours or overnight—this helps the flavors marry and the layers firm up.
I’ve tried a few variations with success—adding crushed Oreos for a chocolatey crunch, swirling in raspberry preserves, and swapping in coconut whipped topping for a dairy-free version. My niece loves it with extra nuts on top, while my husband prefers the classic simple version with minimal topping.
If you make this Pistachio Lush Dessert your own, it will surely bring smiles and warm moments around your table. I hope your family enjoys it as much as mine!
For more recipe favorites that bring families together, don’t forget to try the Almond Cherry Cookies and Raspberry Swirl Brioche Loaf on MomsGate.
If you want to see how this Pistachio Lush Dessert fits into dessert traditions online, check out the Incredible Pistachio Lush Dessert post on Facebook—it’s a cheesecake layer of next level yum!
This pistachio layered dessert is welcoming and approachable. Go ahead, give it a try, and watch how it becomes a new family favorite you’ll return to time and again.
Pistachio Lush Dessert
A luscious layered pistachio dessert combining a crunchy crust, creamy pudding, and whipped topping, perfect for a delightful treat or special occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup crushed pistachio cookies or wafer crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tub (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix crushed pistachio cookies with melted butter and press firmly into the bottom of a 9×9 inch baking dish.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes; remove and let cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together instant pistachio pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Fold the cream cheese mixture into the pudding until well combined.
- Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
- Top with the whipped topping, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top for garnish.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving for best results.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a layer of crushed pistachios or a drizzle of white chocolate between layers. Serve chilled to maintain the creamy texture.

