Rose Pistachio Ice Cream

Featured in desserts.

Oh my friend, you absolutely HAVE to try making this gorgeous rose pistachio ice cream! Just look at those creamy, dreamy scoops adorned with the most beautiful pink rose petals and vibrant green pistachios. The combination of delicate floral notes with rich, nutty pistachios creates pure magic in every bite. I'm telling you, this isn't just ice cream - it's an experience! The cream cheese base makes it incredibly rich and smooth, while the rose water adds that exotic, romantic touch that'll transport you straight to a Persian garden. And those pistachios? They add the perfect crunch and earthiness to balance the floral sweetness. Trust me, once you make this at home, you'll never want store-bought ice cream again!

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Updated on Tue, 03 Jun 2025 01:13:13 GMT
Creamy rose pistachio ice cream scoops garnished with pink rose petals and crushed pistachios pin it
Creamy rose pistachio ice cream scoops garnished with pink rose petals and crushed pistachios | lonerecipes.com

I remember the first time I encountered rose pistachio ice cream - it was at a Middle Eastern festival, and I was skeptical about floral flavors in desserts. But one spoonful changed everything. The creamy base melted on my tongue, releasing waves of delicate rose fragrance that didn't overpower but instead danced beautifully with the rich, earthy pistachios. I knew I had to recreate this at home. After many attempts, I perfected this recipe that combines cream cheese for extra richness, just the right amount of rose water for that ethereal floral note, and plenty of crushed pistachios for texture and flavor. The dried rose petals aren't just for show - they add little bursts of concentrated rose flavor throughout. This ice cream is like edible poetry, each scoop telling a story of ancient Persian gardens and timeless elegance.

Why I love this recipe

What I absolutely adore about this recipe is how it transforms simple ingredients into something magical and transportive. The rose water adds such an elegant, sophisticated flavor that feels both exotic and comforting. I love how the pistachios provide not just flavor but also this wonderful textural contrast - their slight saltiness perfectly balances the sweet, floral base. Every time I make this, it feels like I'm creating something special, almost ceremonial. The beautiful pink and green colors make it as stunning visually as it is delicious. It's also incredibly versatile - I've served it at dinner parties where it never fails to impress, and I've also enjoyed quiet evenings at home with a small bowl while reading. There's something about the combination of cream cheese richness and delicate rose that feels both indulgent and refined. This recipe connects me to centuries of Persian culinary tradition while being completely achievable in my modern kitchen.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

  • Heavy cream: whip to soft peaks and fold into mixture for lightness
  • Cream cheese: soften completely and beat until smooth for rich base
  • Pistachios: roughly chop and reserve half for garnish
  • Rose water: add gradually to taste for delicate floral flavor
  • Egg yolks: whisk with sugar to create custard base
  • Dried rose petals: use for garnish and subtle flavor enhancement

Let's Make These Together

Create custard base
Whisk egg yolks with sugar until pale, then gradually add milk while whisking. Cook gently until mixture coats the back of a spoon, creating a smooth custard foundation.
Incorporate cream cheese
Beat softened cream cheese until completely smooth, then gradually mix in the cooled custard base until no lumps remain and mixture is silky.
Add cream and flavors
Whip heavy cream to soft peaks and gently fold into the cream cheese mixture along with rose water and half the pistachios for the perfect texture.
Churn and freeze
Process in ice cream maker according to instructions until thick and creamy, then transfer to freezer container and freeze until firm for scoopable consistency.
Recipe picture pin it
Elegant rose flavored ice cream decorated with dried rose petals and chopped pistachios in creamy scoops | lonerecipes.com

Switch Things Up

I first discovered this flavor combination at a small Persian ice cream shop in my neighborhood. The owner, an elderly Iranian woman, would always smile when I ordered this particular flavor. She told me it reminded her of her grandmother's garden back in Isfahan. Now, whenever I make this at home, I think of her stories about rose gardens and family gatherings. I've experimented with different ratios of rose water - too much and it tastes like soap, too little and you miss that magical floral note. The key is finding that perfect balance where the rose enhances rather than overwhelms. I love making this during spring when fresh roses are blooming in my garden.

Perfect Pairings

This rose pistachio ice cream pairs beautifully with Persian saffron cookies, baklava, or simple vanilla wafers. For a more elaborate dessert, serve it alongside cardamom shortbread or honey-drizzled figs. A cup of Earl Grey tea or Turkish coffee complements the floral notes perfectly. You can also drizzle it with rosewater syrup or sprinkle additional crushed pistachios and rose petals for an even more luxurious presentation.

Homemade floral ice cream with beautiful rose petals and green pistachio pieces scattered on top pin it
Homemade floral ice cream with beautiful rose petals and green pistachio pieces scattered on top | lonerecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How much rose water should I use?

Start with 2 teaspoons and taste - you can always add more. Rose water varies in strength, so it's better to start conservatively.

→ Can I make this without an ice cream maker?

Yes, you can freeze the mixture in a container, stirring every 30 minutes for the first 3 hours to break up ice crystals.

→ Where can I buy rose water and dried rose petals?

Middle Eastern grocery stores, health food stores, or online. Make sure rose petals are food-grade and pesticide-free.

→ How long does homemade ice cream last?

Store covered in freezer for up to 2 weeks. For best texture, consume within the first week.

→ Can I substitute the cream cheese?

Mascarpone works well as a substitute, though it will be slightly less tangy. Avoid low-fat alternatives as they affect texture.

Conclusion

This rose pistachio ice cream is the perfect blend of elegance and comfort. The floral notes combined with the nutty richness create a dessert that's both sophisticated and satisfying. It's ideal for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something truly extraordinary. The homemade touch makes all the difference, and your guests will be amazed by the beautiful presentation and incredible flavor.

Rose Pistachio Ice Cream

Creamy homemade ice cream infused with delicate rose water, rich cream cheese, and crunchy pistachios for an elegant dessert.

Prep Time
30 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
360 Minutes
By: chris

Category: desserts

Difficulty: intermediate

Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Yield: 8 Servings (8 balls)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

012 cups heavy cream
028 oz cream cheese, softened
033/4 cup granulated sugar
042-3 teaspoons rose water
051 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
062 tablespoons dried rose petals
074 large egg yolks
081 cup whole milk

Instructions

Step 01

In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously to prevent curdling.

Step 02

Transfer mixture to a saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until it coats the back of a spoon (about 170°F). Remove from heat and let cool completely.

Step 03

Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the cooled custard base, mixing until completely combined and smooth.

Step 04

Whip heavy cream to soft peaks. Fold into cream cheese mixture along with rose water and half of the chopped pistachios.

Step 05

Pour mixture into ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer's instructions, usually 20-25 minutes until thick and creamy.

Step 06

Transfer to freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours. Serve garnished with remaining pistachios and dried rose petals.

Notes

  1. Start with less rose water and add more to taste - it can quickly become overpowering
  2. Make sure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the final product
  3. Use food-grade dried rose petals only, available at Middle Eastern markets
  4. For best texture, let ice cream soften for 5-10 minutes before scooping

Tools You'll Need

  • Ice cream maker
  • Large mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Freezer-safe container

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (cream, milk, cream cheese)
  • Eggs (egg yolks)
  • Tree nuts (pistachios)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 285
  • Total Fat: 18 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 28 g
  • Protein: 6 g

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