Easy Pistachio Shot Recipe

Have you ever had a drink that tastes like creamy pistachios? Well, I’m going to share two easy recipes for something called a Pistachio Shot that will surprise you with its nutty yumminess! These shots use pistachios in cool different ways.

As a bit of a pistachio lover, I was excited to discover new ways to enjoy the flavor beyond just eating the nuts plain. The first recipe combines classic liqueurs like Baileys Irish Cream, Creme de Menthe and Creme de Cacao into a quick shot that’s perfect for parties.

Meanwhile, the homemade pistachio cream shot uses ground pistachios, cream and honey to make a rich homemade cream. Both shots really taste of roasted pistachios, which is my favorite nut.

When I tried these Pistachio Shots, I could not believe how delicious they were. The liqueur version is super quick to make for parties. But my favorite is the homemade creamy one – it’s so intensely nutty and smooth. I think you’ll love the unexpected blend of sweet and savory pistachio taste in these shots.

You may have heard of nut-flavored liquors before, but a Pistachio Shot takes it to another level. In just one sip, your taste buds will dance with the intense yet smooth pistachio taste. It’s a real party pleaser and perfect as an indulgent afternoon treat.

Pistachio Shot Recipe (with Liqueurs)

First up is a simple but delicious Pistachio Shot using sweet liqueurs. This recipe creates a classic cocktail experience in each shot glass. It’s one of the first Pistachio Shot varieties I tried, and still one of my favorites thanks to its balanced flavors. This drink is a delectable combination of creamy sweetness, minty freshness, and a subtle hint of pistachio.

Let me tell you about above ingredients in details. I have also given substitutes for these ingredients.

Ingredients

For the ingredients, you’ll need just a few sweet liqueurs to highlight different aspects of pistachio taste. 

1. Bailey’s Irish Cream Liqueur ( ½ oz )

This creamy liqueur provides a smooth and sweet base for the shot, complementing the other flavors. As someone who loves creamy flavors, Bailey’s is one of my favorites to use in cocktail recipes. Iron butterfly is another favorite drink that you should try!

It adds subtle notes of Irish whiskey along with a silky texture that coats your mouth. Only 1/2 oz is needed, which is just right to enhance the creaminess without outweighing the other flavors.

Substitutes:

Need an alternative to Bailey’s? Fear not! Explore other Irish cream liqueurs like Carolans or Teeling for similar sweetness and vanilla notes.

Coffee liqueur like Kahlúa can also work as we use it in Sombrero Cocktail, but remember it introduces a different flavor profile. For a non-alcoholic option, combine vanilla extract, heavy cream, and milk to create a creamy and subtly sweet base.

2. Creme de Menthe ( ¼ oz )

This green liqueur adds a refreshing and minty counterpoint to the sweetness and nuttiness.  On the nights where I like to unwind with a tasty shot, Creme de Menthe is one I enjoy.

Its minty freshness feels cleansing and wakes up my palate. In such a small amount, it brightens the profile without becoming toothpaste-y. The hint of mint elevates the nuts and chocolaty flavors surrounding it.

Substitutes:

Missing Creme de Menthe? Peppermint schnapps offers a similar minty punch, but start with a smaller amount due to its stronger flavor.

You can explore other mint liqueurs like Creme de Menthe Verte or even Creme de Violette for a touch of floral and mint. If you’re not a mint fan, simply omit it and enjoy the other flavors!

3. Creme de Cacao Liqueur ( 1 ½ oz )

This chocolate and vanilla-flavored liqueur adds a touch of complexity and richness to the shot. As someone with a major sweet tooth, I always look forward to recipes using this chocolate liqueur. It adds fudgy cocoa notes that satisfy my cravings. In the shot, it ties the flavors together while taking center stage.

Substitutes:

For a more pronounced pistachio flavor, you can substitute this with homemade or store-bought 1 ½ oz Pistachio Syrup.

To make your own powerful pistachio syrup (enough for several shots):

Roast 1/2 cup raw pistachios slightly, then grind them into a fine powder. Combine the powder with 1/4 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water, simmer it until it thickens ( for 5-7 minutes) , and strain for a homemade, intensely pistachio-flavored syrup. Cool the syrup completely before using.

Unlike Creme de Cacao, which offers a combination of chocolate and mild pistachio flavor, the syrup allows for a stronger and more direct pistachio experience.

If you crave a hint of chocolate, experiment with white chocolate liqueur, though it alters the original profile. You can also try hazelnut liqueur (like Frangelico) for a different nutty twist, but keep in mind it won’t replicate the pistachio essence.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Strainer
• Shot glasses

Instructions

Pre-chill: This step is crucial for ensuring a refreshingly cold drink. When I’m gathering the ingredients, I like to fully chill them in the freezer beforehand. This is important so the shot will be ice cold and not get diluted from melting once assembled. Bailey’s, Creme de Menthe and Creme de Cacao all go into the freezer until frozen solid, at least 30 minutes.

Combine: Pour the chilled Baileys, Creme de Menthe (if using), and Creme de Cacao (or Pistachio Syrup) into a cocktail shaker. Do not add ice at this stage.

Shake it up: Shake the ingredients vigorously for 10-15 seconds. This combines them well and chills the drink further.

Strain and serve: Use a strainer to pour the chilled mixture into chilled shot glasses. Enjoy your delicious Pistachio Shot!

Garnish for an extra touch: Crushed pistachios or a drizzle of chocolate syrup on the rim of the shot glass adds a delightful visual and textural element to your Pistachio Shot drink.

How to make Non-Alcoholic Pistachio Shots

As someone watching what I drink, I’m always on the hunt for tasty non-alcoholic cocktail options. When I came across this Pistachio Cream Shot mocktail recipe, I knew I had to try making it. 

Ingredients

• ½ ounce Vanilla extract
• ½ ounce Heavy cream
• ¼ ounce Milk
• ¼ ounce Pistachio syrup (or to taste)
• Crushed pistachios (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Combine: In a shaker (or tightly sealed jar), combine the vanilla extract, heavy cream, milk, and the desired amount of pistachio syrup.
2. Shake it up: Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
3. Strain and serve: Strain the mixture into a chilled shot glass.
4. Garnish (optional): Add a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for an extra touch of flavor and texture.

Adjust the amount of pistachio syrup to your desired level of sweetness. You can use sugar-free vanilla extract and sugar-free pistachio syrup for a completely sugar-free version.

For a thicker consistency, you can add a pinch of xanthan gum to the mixture before shaking.

Experiment with different flavors by adding other extracts, such as almond or coconut, in place of some of the vanilla extract.

Tips and Tricks 

If you find the drink too sweet, adjust the amount of Creme de Menthe to your liking. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away.

If you want it creamier, add an extra splash of Bailey’s. Or more minty? Try an extra dash of Creme de Menthe. Tweak the recipe to your preferences for the perfect nutty cocktail.

If you don’t have a cocktail shaker, you can use a tightly sealed jar.

And of course, presentation is everything when entertaining. I make sure to place the frozen glasses in the freezer standing up straight so each pour creates a pristine layered look. Taking pride in small details means guests will rave about my cooking for weeks to come.

For a more visually appealing presentation, rim the shot glass with crushed pistachios before adding the drink. Simply rub a lime wedge around the rim and dip the glass upside down into a shallow dish filled with crushed pistachios.

Nutrition Facts of Pistachio cocktail

This Pistachio Shot with Liqueurs is certainly not a low calorie cocktail. Given that it contains multiple creamy, sugary and alcoholic ingredients in a 1.5oz serving, you can expect it to pack more of a caloric punch. With around 150-200 calories per shot, this drink should be enjoyed in moderation.

Nutrient Facts for 1 Shot (1.5oz) of Pistachio Shot with Liqueurs

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	150-200
Total Fat	6g
Saturated Fat	4g
Total Carbs	11g
Total Sugars	11g
Protein	0g
Alcohol	0.1oz

This cocktail is not vegan-friendly due to the dairy ingredients like Bailey’s Irish Cream.

Gluten could also be a concern since some liqueurs may contain gluten, so those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity would need to check brands carefully.

This drink is likely not keto-friendly due to the presence of sugar and carbohydrates from the liqueurs. However, a sugar-free or low-sugar version using sugar-free syrups and swapping dairy for a non-dairy creamer could potentially work with some modifications to lower the impact carbs.

Recommended: Gummy Bear Shot Recipe

Homemade Pistachio Cream Shot (Non-Alcoholic)

While I enjoy the liqueur-based Pistachio Shot, sometimes I like to make a homemade version using fresh ingredients. This recipe gives us a non-alcoholic Pistachio Cream drink.

As someone who appreciates simple recipes, I was excited to try this easy homemade pistachio cream. All it takes is blending a few nuts, cream and flavors in the food processor. The process couldn’t be simpler.

I’m always impressed by how much flavor you can get from so few ingredients. Roasted pistachios are one of my favorite nuts, so a shot centered around that taste appealed to me.

After making the cream, one sip revealed an intensely rich and satiny smooth texture coated in pistachio essence. It’s decadently tasty yet feels lighter than a sugary mix of liqueurs.

Now this shot has become a go-to recipe for entertaining. Guests are surprised by the pure nutty punch packed into such a small serving. 

Ingredients

1. Shelled pistachios (1 cup)

These are the stars of the show! I bought these fresh shelled pistachios from Amazon last week!

For an extra depth of flavor, consider roasting the pistachios in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes before grinding them. This deepens the nutty essence and adds a touch of caramelized sweetness.

As someone with a serious pistachio obsession, I get really excited about using high quality nuts for this recipe.

2. Heavy cream (½ cup)

This provides the rich and creamy base. If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with full-fat coconut milk for a slightly different taste and texture. However, keep in mind that coconut milk will have a distinct flavor that may not be preferred by everyone.

Since I have sensitive digestion, I prefer using organic cream from grass-fed cows. It’s richer tasting and easier on my stomach.

3. Honey (¼ cup)

This adds the necessary sweetness to balance the richness of the heavy cream and the nuttiness of the pistachios. You can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or even granulated sugar to taste. Experiment to find your perfect level of sweetness.

4. Powdered sugar (2 tablespoons)

This adds a touch of additional sweetness and helps to create a smooth texture. As a baker, I keep my powdered sugar ultra fine for perfectly smooth textures.

If you are using a sweetener substitute for the honey, you may not need the powdered sugar or can adjust the amount based on your desired sweetness.

5. Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)

This adds a subtle touch of vanilla flavor that complements the pistachios beautifully. I swear by Tahitian vanilla for its lush, almost butterscotch-like flavor.

You can substitute with almond extract for a slightly different flavor profile, but vanilla is generally the preferred choice for this recipe.

6. Pinch of salt

A pinch of salt helps to balance the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor profile.  like using gray sea salt for its clean taste.

Equipment

• Food processor
• Fine-mesh sieve
• Container (for chilling the cream)
• Small shot glasses
• Optional: Measuring spoons (for honey, powdered sugar, and salt)
• Optional: Dry pan (for toasting pistachios)

Instructions

This recipe is actually quite straightforward, and the result is well worth the minimal effort.

Step 1: Grinding the Pistachios

First things first, grab those pistachios. I like to roast them for a few minutes in a dry pan over medium heat before grinding. This adds a deeper, richer flavor to the shot, but you can skip this step if you’re short on time.

Now, pour the pistachios into your trusty food processor. Pulse it a few times initially, then let it run continuously until the pistachios turn into a fine powder. Make sure there are no large chunks remaining.

Step 2: Creating the Creamy Base

With the ground pistachios ready, add the heavy cream, honey, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the food processor.

Give it a good whirl until everything is smooth and beautifully combined. You should have a creamy and slightly thick pistachio mixture.

Step 3: Refining the Texture

To ensure a silky smooth texture, I like to strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve. This removes any larger pistachio pieces that might have snuck through the grinding process.

Pour the strained pistachio cream into a container and pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the cream to thicken up for the perfect shot consistency.

Step 4: Serving and Enjoying

Once the pistachio cream is chilled, it’s time to assemble your shots! Grab some small shot glasses and carefully pour the cream into each one.

For an extra touch of pistachio flair, I sometimes sprinkle some crushed pistachios on top before serving.

And there you have it! My homemade pistachio cream shot is ready to be enjoyed. It’s creamy, intensely flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make.

For the Alcoholic twist

If you’re looking for a boozy treat, feel free to experiment! You can add a shot of your favorite liquor (vodka, rum, tequila, etc.) to the food processor along with the other ingredients. Adjust the amount based on your desired potency and taste preferences.

Tips and Tricks

If you have a nut allergy, unfortunately, this recipe is not suitable for you. However, you can explore other shot recipes that utilize different flavors and ingredients.

When grinding the pistachios, ensure they are ground into a fine powder. This ensures a smooth texture in the final shot.

If the cream seems too thick after chilling, add a touch of milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Start by pulsing the pistachios in the food processor a few times before continuous grinding. This helps break down the larger pieces more evenly, avoiding a gritty texture.

Don’t over-grind. Aim for a fine powder, but avoid over-processing as it can make the mixture oily. Pulse the processor a few times at a time and check the consistency until it’s finely ground with no large chunks.

Flavor Twists:

Sweetness level: Start with the recommended amount of honey or your chosen sweetener, but adjust to your taste. Add more for a sweeter shot or less for a more subtle sweetness.

Vanilla twist: Substitute the vanilla extract with almond extract for a slightly different flavor profile, but remember that vanilla is generally the preferred choice.

Spice it up: For a kick, add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture while processing.

Serving:

Freeze the glasses: For an extra refreshing experience, pre-chill the shot glasses in the freezer for at least 30 minutes before pouring the cream.

Garnishing fun: Experiment with different garnishes beyond crushed pistachios. Try a drizzle of chocolate syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of edible glitter for a festive touch.

Nutrition Facts

At 100 calories per 2 tablespoon serving, the Homemade Pistachio Cream Shot provides a moderate amount of calories compared to other mixed drinks.

Given its creamy, nutty ingredients, some fat and sugar are to be expected. However, it contains less calories than pre-made versions using liqueurs since no additional alcohol is added.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	100
Total Fat	7g
Saturated Fat	4g
Total Carbs	8g
Total Sugars	7g
Fiber	1g
Protein	1g
Alcohol	0g

This homemade pistachio cream shot is not considered vegan due to the use of heavy cream. The recipe is also not gluten-free since many extracted vanilla products contain gluten.

From a keto or low-carb perspective, each 2 tbsp serving contains 8 grams of total carbs and 7 grams of sugar. While lower in carbs than some shots, this still exceeds a single daily carb allowance for keto.

More Pistachio Shot Variations to Try

Here are some other popular Pistachio Shot variations I’ve discovered:

1. Pistachio Martini Shot with Blue Curaçao and Amaretto

Ingredients you need for Pistachio Martini are:

• Amaretto
• Baileys
• Blue Curaçao
• Vodka
• Chocolate Frosting
• Crushed Pistachios
• Whipped Cream

To make Pistachio Martini, Chill a martini glass. Combine almond extract, vanilla extract, and blue syrup (if using) in a shaker filled with ice.

Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. Strain the mixture into the chilled martini glass. Rim the glass with crushed pistachios. Top with whipped cream. For an extra touch, rim the glasses with crushed pistachios and garnish with a maraschino cherry.

Pistachio Martini Shot is a smooth, creamy shot with a sweet and nutty flavor, topped with a beautiful emerald green color thanks to the blue curaçao. This is a popular choice for its ease and familiar flavors.

If you enjoy strong drinks, you might also appreciate the Dancing Bear Drink.

2. Pistachio Shot with Disaronno

This variation replaces amaretto with Disaronno, an amaretto-like liqueur with a subtly different flavor profile. It offers a slightly sweeter and less almond-forward taste compared to the classic pistachio shot. This is perfect for those who prefer a sweeter option.

3. Pistachio Shot with Vodka

For a stronger kick, some prefer adding vodka to the mix. Be aware that this alters the original creamy profile and adds a distinct alcohol taste. Adjust the amount of vodka to your preferred strength, but remember to always prioritize responsible consumption.

4. Spicy Pistachio Shots

For those who like a bit of heat, adding a dash of cinnamon schnapps or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the classic recipe is a popular choice. This adds a surprising warmth and complexity that will tantalize your taste buds. However, start slow and adjust to your spice tolerance to avoid overwhelming flavors.

Spicy cocktails should also try spicy passion fruit margarita and spicy ranch water cocktails.

5. Fruity Pistachio Shots

Feeling adventurous? Some enjoy a fruity twist by substituting half of the amaretto with a fruit-flavored liqueur like peach, apricot, or cherry. This adds a vibrant pop of color and flavor while still maintaining a balanced profile. Experiment with different fruits to find your favorite combination!

Looking for a similar refreshing experience with a fruity twist? Try our Rusa Drink Recipe.

Serving Tips for Pistachio Shots

For starters, I’ll rim my shot glasses with sugared pistachios. A simple mix of crushed nuts, sugar and cinnamon sticks to the rims gives each shot a gorgeous contrast.

To serve the creamy homemade version, I use a frostbitten measuring spoon to pile the thick pistachio cream high. It’s so rich and lovely looking in the chilled glass.

If doing a tasting party, grouping shots on a tray is a fun way to offer flavors side by side. I’ll nestle the shots into colorful indentations cut from lemons and limes on a wooden board. A scattering of crushed nuts and citrus wheels adds rustic flair.

For a swanky effect, attempt layering in martini glasses. Slowly pouring successive shots of cream and liqueur results in a striped effect. Topped with a candied pistachio, they’re a real showstopper to sip from long stems.

What to serve with Pistachio Shots

Here are some tasty foods to serve with Pistachio Shots:

Charcuterie board – The savory meats and cheeses provide the perfect balance to the rich, sweet pistachio cream.

Miniature nut brittle bites – Crunchy nut brittle adds textural contrast and brings out the nutty flavors in the shot.

Pistachio dusted macarons – The flaky shells and pistachio buttercream complement the shot’s nutty creaminess.

Moist pistachio cookies – Buttery cookies sandwiching mascarpone frosting soak up every last delicious drop.

Roasted and salted pistachios – Salty roasted nuts enhance flavors and satisfy cravings between creamy sips.

Pistachio pesto – Savory pesto paired with veggies offers flavor reset between rich shots.

Baklava bites – Crisp phyllo, sweet honey and nuts echo ingredients in a bite-sized treat.

Chocolate-dipped nut clusters – Chocolate underscores the decadence, coconut provides crunch.

How to Store Pistachio Shots: Tips

Here are storage tips for the Pistachio Shot recipes:

Pistachio Shot with Liqueurs

Store at room temperature (optional): If you plan to consume the shots within a few hours, storing them at room temperature in a cool, dark place is acceptable. However, be aware that this shortens their shelf life slightly.

Refrigerate for extended storage (recommended): For longer storage, or if you prefer a chilled drink, transfer the remaining shot mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate. This can extend the shelf life up to 2 weeks.

Discard after 2 weeks: Dispose of any leftover shot mixture after 2 weeks of refrigeration to avoid potential spoilage.

Homemade Pistachio Cream Shot

Refrigerate immediately: Due to the presence of perishable ingredients like heavy cream, store leftover homemade pistachio cream shot in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Consume them within this timeframe for optimal taste and quality.

Discard after 3 days: As the cream can spoil beyond this period, discard any leftover shot after 3 days of refrigeration.

Freezing not recommended: Freezing is not recommended for this recipe as it can alter the texture and consistency of the cream, resulting in an unpleasant experience.

Clearly label and date all stored shots. Condensation may occur when refrigerating, so stash containers on a plate or in a zip top bag.

Avoid frequent opening of the fridge which can cause oxidation. Check portions for quality before consumption as fats may separate over time.

Conclusion

Pistachio shots are perfect for a relaxed evening, game nights, or even after-dinner gatherings. With their unique taste and vibrant color, pistachio shots are sure to tantalize your taste buds and add a touch of fun to any occasion.

From the classic “Pistachio Shot with Liqueurs” to the rich “Homemade Pistachio Cream Shot,” these vibrant green drinks offer a unique and flavorful experience.

Have you tried any of these recipes? Share your experience and any variations you tried in the comments below! Do not forget to tag us on Facebook or Instagram Story!

FAQS

1. Can I make Pistachio Shots with different colors?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different colored liqueurs or even add a touch of food coloring to create unique visual variations. However, be mindful of using only food coloring brands approved for consumption.

2. Can I eat Pistachio Shots for breakfast?

Pistachio Shots are alcoholic beverages and are not recommended for breakfast. They are typically enjoyed as a dessert drink or during social gatherings due to their higher alcohol content and richer flavor profile.

3. Can I add chocolate to Pistachio Shots?

Yes, chocolate pairs beautifully with pistachio flavor! Here are some ways to incorporate chocolate into your Pistachio Shots:

• Add chocolate liqueur: This is a straightforward way to add a chocolatey kick to your shots. Options like Godiva white chocolate liqueur or dark chocolate liqueur can be used depending on your preference.
• Use cocoa powder: For a subtler chocolate taste, you can sprinkle a small amount of unsweetened cocoa powder on top of your finished shot.
• Drizzle with chocolate syrup: A touch of chocolate syrup adds a delightful sweetness and visual appeal.

4. Do I need a shaker to make Pistachio Shots?

While a shaker is not strictly necessary for the “Classic Pistachio Shot” recipe, it can be helpful for thoroughly chilling and combining the ingredients.

You can use a mason jar with a lid or another tightly sealed container as an alternative. However, a shaker is recommended for the “Homemade Pistachio Cream Shot” recipe as it ensures a smooth and creamy texture.

5. How long can I store leftover Pistachio Shots?

It’s best to enjoy Pistachio Shots fresh due to the potential for spoilage of dairy ingredients in the “Homemade Pistachio Cream Shot” recipe.

If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a maximum of 24 hours. However, consuming them sooner is recommended for optimal flavor and quality.

6. Are there any non-alcoholic alternatives to Pistachio Shots?

Yes! Both Pistachio Shot recipes can be easily adapted to be non-alcoholic. Simply omit the vodka or any other alcoholic ingredient used in the recipe. You can substitute it with additional milk, juice, or even flavored syrups to maintain a desirable sweetness and flavor balance.