Table of Contents
Introduction
This Pistachio Pudding Tart is a fast, impressive dessert that balances creamy filling and crunchy nuts. It uses instant pistachio pudding to save cooking time while keeping a homemade feel. The tart shell bakes quickly and the filling sets in the fridge, so most hands-on work takes under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy hosts or weeknight treats when you want something special without fuss.

Why This Recipe Works
This recipe leans on convenience without sacrificing texture or flavor. Instant pistachio pudding mix gives a smooth base that sets reliably, while crushed pistachios add real nutty crunch. Whipping heavy cream with sugar creates a light finish that keeps the tart from feeling too dense. Using a store-bought crust shaves prep time, but a homemade crust works just as well if you prefer. The technique is forgiving — gentle folding keeps the whipped cream airy and the filling stable. Overall, the method is fast, repeatable, and great for last-minute entertaining.
Flavor and Texture
Expect a sweet, nut-forward profile where pistachio flavor is front and center. The pudding mix provides a green, slightly sweet base while crushed pistachios offer a toasty, savory counterpoint. Whipped cream adds a clean, milky lift so each bite feels light rather than heavy. The baked crust gives a crisp, buttery edge that contrasts the soft filling. Together the elements create a satisfying blend of creamy, crunchy, and slightly chewy textures.
Ingredients
– 1 cup pistachio pudding mix
– 2 cups milk
– 1 1/2 cups crushed pistachios
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Butter for greasing
Step by Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a tart pan with butter.
2. Press the pie crust into the tart pan and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the pistachio pudding mix and milk, whisking until smooth.
4. Fold in the crushed pistachios and vanilla extract.
5. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form.
6. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pistachio mixture until fully combined.
7. Pour the pistachio filling into the cooled crust and spread evenly.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. Enjoy your creamy and crunchy Pistachio Pudding Tart!
Quick Tips and Shortcuts
If time is tight, use a pre-rolled tart shell that fits your pan to skip crimping and blind baking. Pulse whole pistachios briefly in a food processor for a mix of fine and chunky texture instead of buying pre-crushed nuts. Chill your mixing bowl and beaters for five minutes before whipping cream to speed peak formation. For a cleaner slice, run a sharp knife under hot water and wipe between cuts. If you need extra stability, fold in one tablespoon of instant pudding powder to the whipped cream.
Storage and Meal Prep
Store the tart covered in the refrigerator for up to three days; the crust stays reasonably crisp for the first day. For longer storage, keep filling separate and assemble within 24 hours to preserve texture. Freeze slices wrapped tightly for up to one month, then thaw in the fridge before serving. Label with the date so you always know freshness.
Short Closing Note
This tart is a fast, crowd-pleasing way to showcase pistachios with minimal fuss. It’s ideal for quick dinner parties, potlucks, or a sweet weeknight pick-me-up.
Conclusion
For a nut-forward twist or variation ideas, check out this pistachio pudding tarts resource from pistachio pudding tarts – Back Porch to spark more speedy dessert creativity.
FAQ
Can this be made in under 30 minutes?
Yes, the recipe is designed to be quick and efficient.
Does it work for meal prep?
Most versions store well for one to three days.
Can I customize the ingredients?
Yes, simple swaps can be made for convenience or dietary needs.

Pistachio Pudding Tart
A quick and impressive dessert featuring a creamy pistachio filling and crunchy nuts, perfect for busy hosts.
- Total Time: 135 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup pistachio pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups crushed pistachios
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a tart pan with butter.
- Press the pie crust into the tart pan and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pistachio pudding mix and milk, whisking until smooth.
- Fold in the crushed pistachios and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the pistachio mixture until fully combined.
- Pour the pistachio filling into the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 120 minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy and crunchy Pistachio Pudding Tart!
Notes
For a cleaner slice, run a sharp knife under hot water and wipe between cuts. This tart can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 50mg