No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie has become my go-to dessert for busy weeks and warm-weather gatherings. As a chef and recipe developer behind Allen’s Recipes, I know how a great dessert should feel effortless and still feel special. This 5-ingredient no-bake pie packs creamy pistachio flavor into a light, cool slice that comes together in minutes and sets while you take care of other tasks. The graham crust stays crisp with a buttery bite, while the pistachio pudding filling delivers a lush pudding-like texture that holds its shape. In this guide, I’ll share practical tips, substitutions, and serving ideas so you can wow family, friends, and clients with minimal effort. Let’s start with a crust you’ll crave and a filling today.
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what make this [recipe] special
No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie is the kind of dessert that slips into a busy week like a welcome friend. I reach for it when deadlines loom and the oven stays silent. With a short list of pantry stars, this pie proves that flavor can arrive without drama.
No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie is approachable for busy days
No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie is approachable for busy days. Its 5-ingredient beauty and no-bake method mean you assemble and chill, not slave over the stove. I appreciate how a simple crust can anchor a decadent filling without extra fuss.

No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie offers a light, creamy texture
No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie offers a light, creamy texture. The filling stays cool and tender, thanks to the whipped topping folded into pistachio pudding and cream cheese. It slices cleanly, leaving room for a smile instead of a fork fight.
No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie fits make-ahead entertaining
No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie fits make-ahead entertaining. You can mix the crust and filling up to a day ahead and chill until guests arrive. This small ritual saves big stress and lets the dessert shine on cue.
No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie combines flavor with simplicity
No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie combines flavor with simplicity. Pistachio cream feels luxurious but familiar, like a secret you share with family. It proves that everyday moments can taste special without turning your kitchen into a scene from a food show.
Ingredients for No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie
I keep this simple lineup close at hand. It’s the kind of pantry-friendly list I reach for when time is tight but dessert still needs to feel special. Each ingredient plays a part, from crust to filling.
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant pistachio pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- Optional topping: extra whipped topping or chopped pistachios
Graham cracker crumbs: form the crust’s base and give a gentle sweetness.
Melted butter: binds the crust and helps it stay crisp after chilling.
Sugar: lightly sweetens the crust to balance pistachio flavor.
Pistachio pudding mix: provides the pistachio flavor and creamy structure.
Milk: hydrates the pudding mix and helps it set smoothly.
Whipped topping: lightens the filling and adds airiness.
Cream cheese: adds tang, richness, and body to the mousse-like filling.
Optional topping: extra whipped topping or chopped pistachios for color and crunch.
Notes: Exact quantities are included here; see bottom of article for printable print-ready version. Brief notes on substitutions: use light cream cheese or light whipped topping if desired; you can also swap graham crust with store-bought ladyfinger crust for a variation.

How to Make [No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie]
No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie is my shortcut to dessert bliss.
I love how it comes together without turning the kitchen into a bake sale.
This easy pistachio dessert stays cool and comforting in the fridge.
Step 1 – No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie Crust Prep
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
Press firmly into a 9-inch pie dish and chill for 10 minutes.
A cold crust helps keep it crisp when you add the filling.
Step 2 – No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie Pistachio Pudding Mixture
Whisk pistachio pudding mix with cold milk until thick and smooth.
Let it rest a moment so it’s easy to fold into cream cheese.
This base creates the pistachio dessert filling, a true no-bake star.
Step 3 – No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie Cream Cheese Fold-In
Beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Gently fold it into the pudding until light and fluffy.
Don’t overmix; you want a mousse-like texture.
Step 4 – No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie Whipped Topping
Fold whipped topping into the mixture until airy.
Stop when the filling looks pale and fluffy.
The whipped cream keeps the filling from feeling heavy.
Step 5 – No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie Assembly and Chill
Spread filling into the crust, smoothing the top.
Chill at least 2 hours, or overnight for best set.
Keep the pie refrigerated until serving for clean slices.
Step 6 – No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie Slice and Serve
Use a sharp knife to slice cleanly.
Top with extra whipped topping or chopped pistachios if desired.
Serve chilled for a creamy, crowd-pleasing finale.
Tips for Success
- Keep cream cheese at room temperature for smoother folding into the pudding, saving you from lumps.
- Chill the crust briefly to prevent crumbling when filling and to help set the base.
- Do not over-mix the pudding; fold gently to maintain a light, mousse-like texture.
- Dry pistachios as a garnish if using extra topping; store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- If space allows, layer toppings just before serving for extra crunch and color.
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowls (one for crust, one for filling)
- Whisk for pudding or an electric mixer
- Rubber spatula for folding
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plate for serving; optional piping bag for decorative whipped topping
- Cooling rack for chilling the crust or whole pie
Variations
- I like a vanilla wafer crust or crushed shortbread for a different base when I make No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie.
- I swap in light cream cheese and light whipped topping to cut calories without losing that creamy wow in No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie.
- To make it dairy-free, I use almond milk and a non-dairy whipped topping while keeping the pistachio flavor strong.
- I finish with white chocolate shavings or crushed pistachios for extra texture and color on No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie.
Why You’ll Love This [No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie]
As a busy home cook, I crave desserts that feel special but aren’t a time-sink. No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie delivers creamy richness with a light, buttery crust. It chills in the fridge, freeing me to tend kids, deadlines, or a quick workout while the pie sets. It scales for a crowd and still tastes luxe. Simple ingredients keep flavors bright, making every bite a small celebration for guests tonight.

Serving Suggestions
- Fresh berries or a light lemon zest garnish for color contrast.
- A dollop of extra whipped topping and chopped pistachios.
- Serve with iced tea, sparkling water, or a light wine.
- Add a mint leaf or edible flower for color.
- Dust with a whisper of powdered sugar for a bakery finish.
Make-Ahead Magic: Storing and Serving No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie
Make-Ahead Magic with No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie saves dinner party drama. I love having components ready so dessert glides in at the last moment. You can prep crust and filling ahead for No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie, up to 24 hours. Keep the crust tightly wrapped in the fridge to stay crisp.
- Prep crust and filling ahead for No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie, up to 24 hours.
- Whip and fold fillings only when ready to assemble.
- Store the assembled pie in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- Freeze slices for longer storage; thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Bring to room temperature for a softer texture.
These small steps keep No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie effortless and always ready to wow.
FAQs
Can I make No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble up to a day ahead and keep it chilled for No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie’s best slice.
Can I use non-dairy milk or dairy-free ingredients in No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie?
Yes—use non-dairy milk and non-dairy whipped topping; adjust sweetness if needed to keep the pistachio dessert balanced.
How long does No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie take to chill?
About 2 hours minimum; overnight chilling yields the best set for perfect slices of this easy no-bake pie.
Can I substitute graham crackers in No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie crust?
Yes—try digestive biscuits or crushed cookies for a different flavor base in this pistachio pie.
Final Thoughts
My No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie is a gentle celebration of simple ingredients. I love how it feels luxurious yet effortless, perfect for busy days. The crust stays crisp, the filling stays airy, and the fridge does the rest. This dessert travels well for potlucks and makes-ahead meals, easing meal-prep fatigue. With each bite, I’m reminded that dinner-hour magic can come from routine pantry staples. If you crave a dessert that honors your time and your taste, this pie is your quiet victory—No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie, and it’s yours to enjoy with loved ones today and into many gatherings.
Print
No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie is a 5-Ingredient Easy Dessert.
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie is a light, cool, and creamy dessert built with a pistachio pudding filling, fluffy whipped topping, and a buttery graham cracker crust. This easy, 5-ingredient no-bake pie is perfect for warm days, spring gatherings, and make-ahead summer treats.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant pistachio pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- Optional topping: extra whipped topping or chopped pistachios
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press firmly into a 9-inch pie dish. Chill for 10 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk pistachio pudding mix with cold milk until thickened.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth, then gently fold into the pudding.
- Fold in whipped topping until light and fluffy.
- Spread filling evenly into prepared crust.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing. Add toppings if desired.
Notes
- Chill time helps the dessert set firmly; plan ahead.
- Keep the pie refrigerated until serving.
- Yields 10 servings.
- Optional toppings: extra whipped topping or chopped pistachios for garnish.
- Variations: use low-fat cream cheese or light whipped topping to reduce calories (if desired).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of pie)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: No Bake Pistachio Cream Pie, pistachio pudding pie, no bake dessert, 5-ingredient dessert, easy pistachio pie, pistachio pie recipe, summer dessert