The fusion of creamy pistachio and soft, fluffy oat-flour cake in this single-serve tiramisu makes for a delightfully elegant and perfectly portioned treat. Each layer melts into the next, delivering a balance of nutty sweetness and comforting textures.
Perfect for when you want to indulge without the pressure of finishing an entire tray, this pistachio tiramisu is all about small-batch decadence. You can even swap out the pistachio cream for Biscoff or Nutella for a different twist—make it your own signature dessert in a cup.
Full Recipe:
For the Cream:
200ml double or whipping cream (or 5 tbsp Greek yogurt)
2 tsp pistachio cream, melted
For the Cake Layer:
3 heaped tbsp oat flour
1 heaped tbsp vanilla whey protein powder (or 1 egg + splash of vanilla extract)
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/6 tsp bicarbonate of soda
1 tbsp sugar or sweetener of choice
1 tbsp smooth cashew butter
Splash of milk
Directions:
If you’re using an oven, preheat it to 180°C (350°F).
In a bowl, cream together the cashew butter and sugar until fluffy.
Add a splash of vanilla extract and either the protein powder or egg, then mix in a splash of milk.
Add oat flour, baking powder, and bicarbonate of soda. Mix well. Adjust with more milk until you get a cake batter consistency.
Pour the batter into a lined flat bowl or silicone mold. Microwave for 2–3 minutes, rotating halfway. Or, if using the oven, bake for 12–15 minutes until risen, springy, and golden.
Remove cake from mold and allow to cool.
Whip the double cream until thickened. Stir in melted pistachio cream to make a greenish, sweetened pistachio-flavored whipped topping. Adjust sweetness if needed.
Use a round glass to cut out 4–5 circles from the cake.
In your serving glass, alternate layers of cake and pistachio cream.
Dust the final layer with cocoa powder and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best flavor.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: ~310 kcal (approximate, depends on cream used) | Servings: 1
The Irresistible Allure of Pistachio Tiramisu
Pistachio Tiramisu is a modern twist on a classic Italian dessert that fuses the nutty elegance of pistachios with the traditional creamy layers of tiramisu. While the original version typically features espresso-soaked ladyfingers layered with mascarpone cream, this single-serve variation reimagines the concept with a protein-rich, oat flour-based cake and a whipped pistachio cream that’s every bit as indulgent, yet delightfully lighter and more accessible. What makes this recipe truly unique is its portion control-friendly format, allowing dessert lovers to enjoy something rich and satisfying without going overboard.
This dessert caters to a wide range of dietary preferences and offers flexibility in ingredients, making it suitable for those who follow gluten-free, high-protein, or lower-sugar diets. At its core, this pistachio tiramisu is a beautiful celebration of taste, texture, and balance—offering the richness of nut butters, the fluffiness of baked cake, and the velvety smoothness of cream with a nutty pistachio finish.
The Story Behind the Recipe
Like many great recipes, this one was born out of inspiration and necessity. The original idea came from a video of a full tray of tiramisu that looked “INSANE,” as the recipe creator described. But rather than recreate the full-sized version, the decision to craft a single-serve dessert stemmed from practicality. Why make an entire tray of something when you can test and enjoy it in a perfectly portioned cup?
The single-serve approach has a lot of perks: it reduces food waste, it’s ideal for solo indulgence, and it gives you the freedom to experiment with flavors and variations without the commitment of a full batch. For busy people, health-conscious eaters, or anyone living in a one-person household, this concept is a game-changer.
What Makes This Recipe Stand Out
Unlike traditional tiramisu, this recipe swaps out the ladyfingers for a quick homemade cake base using oat flour and optional protein powder. This not only boosts the nutritional content but also adds a new depth of flavor and texture to the dish. The cake is light and fluffy, slightly nutty from the oat flour, and offers just the right amount of structure to support the layers of cream.
The cream is equally innovative. Rather than relying on mascarpone, the recipe uses whipped double cream (or even Greek yogurt for a lighter option) and blends it with pistachio cream—a rich, smooth spread made from ground pistachios. The result is a sweet, nutty, and silky filling that brings a fresh take to the dessert.
Because of these ingredient choices, the recipe becomes more accessible, cost-effective, and versatile. Whether you’re looking for a healthier dessert or just something quick and satisfying, this version of tiramisu delivers in both flavor and practicality.
Why Single Serve Matters
There’s a growing trend in the culinary world toward small-batch, single-serve cooking. It fits perfectly with modern lifestyles where many people cook for one or two, want to avoid overindulging, or simply like having a treat without the temptation of leftovers. This recipe acknowledges that reality and provides a solution that feels indulgent, while also being practical and mindful.
Moreover, the single-serve presentation feels personal and intimate. It’s something you can make for yourself as a self-care treat or serve to guests as a beautifully plated dessert that feels crafted just for them. It’s the kind of recipe that tells your guests you care, even if it took you less than 30 minutes to prepare.
Flavor and Texture Profile
The pistachio tiramisu offers a symphony of complementary textures and flavors. The soft, spongy cake mimics the feel of soaked ladyfingers, providing just enough density to carry the weight of the cream without becoming soggy. The pistachio cream brings a rich, nutty undertone, enhanced by the gentle sweetness of the whipped cream or yogurt base.
On top, a dusting of cocoa adds a touch of bitterness that cuts through the sweetness and rounds out the dish. If you’re a fan of pistachios, this dessert is a must-try. The nut’s natural earthiness pairs perfectly with dairy and sweet components, creating a flavor that’s both familiar and refreshingly different.
Customizations and Variations
One of the best aspects of this recipe is how customizable it is. If pistachio cream isn’t your thing, you can substitute it with other spreads like Biscoff, Nutella, or even a homemade almond or hazelnut butter. Each variation brings a new personality to the dessert.
You can also play around with the cake layer. Want a more protein-rich version? Stick with the whey protein powder option. Prefer a more classic texture? Use an egg and vanilla extract. You can even experiment with gluten-free flours or add-ins like orange zest, cardamom, or chopped nuts for added flair.
The cream layer can be lightened by using Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative, and sweeteners can be adjusted to fit your taste preferences—whether you prefer maple syrup, honey, stevia, or monk fruit.
When to Serve It
This dessert is perfect for nearly any occasion. Because it’s so quick and easy to prepare, it makes a lovely weeknight treat. Yet, with its rich presentation and complex flavors, it’s elegant enough to serve at dinner parties, romantic evenings, or even as part of a tasting platter for special celebrations.
It also stores well in the refrigerator, so you can make it in advance and let it chill while you focus on other aspects of your meal. In fact, the chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious after a few hours or overnight.
Health-Conscious Dessert with Gourmet Vibes
Unlike traditional tiramisu, which can be heavy on refined sugar, dairy, and processed carbs, this version leans into healthier territory. By using oat flour, you introduce whole grains into the mix. The option to include protein powder adds a boost of satiety, making this a more balanced treat. Swapping out mascarpone for Greek yogurt or a whipped plant-based cream brings a lighter texture and reduced calorie count.
And let’s not forget pistachios themselves are a nutritional powerhouse. They offer healthy fats, protein, fiber, and an array of vitamins and minerals. When blended into a cream, they lend both flavor and nutrition without the need for excessive additives.
Aesthetic Appeal
The visual presentation of this dessert is just as satisfying as its taste. Layered in a glass or ramekin, the contrasting textures of cake and cream create beautiful layers, while the soft green hue of pistachio cream offers a pop of color that stands out. A final dusting of cocoa or shaved chocolate elevates the look even further.
This makes it an excellent choice for food bloggers, social media sharing, or even gifting. With minimal effort, you create a dessert that looks like it came from a boutique café.
Conclusion: A Sweet Revolution in a Cup
The Pistachio Tiramisu (Single Serve) recipe is more than just a creative dessert—it’s a reflection of how we eat and live today. It’s fast, flexible, nutritious, indulgent, and designed for real life. Whether you’re a busy student, a health-conscious parent, or a food lover who enjoys the little luxuries, this dessert has something for everyone.
Its ability to cater to dietary needs, reduce waste, and offer gourmet satisfaction in a few spoonfuls makes it a must-try for anyone looking to upgrade their dessert game. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to indulgence for those moments when you need a quick fix of sweetness, without the guilt or hassle.