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This tender crumb Pistachio Bread is sweet and moist with delightful nutty flavor throughout. The vibrant green color from pistachio pudding mix makes it as beautiful as it is delicious. Each slice offers the perfect balance of almond and vanilla notes that complement the pistachios perfectly.
I first made this pistachio bread for a spring brunch with friends and it disappeared within minutes. Now it has become my signature contribution to family gatherings and holiday mornings. The vibrant green color always brings smiles to the table.
Ingredients
- Granulated sugar: provides the perfect sweetness that balances the nutty flavor
- Vegetable oil: creates that incredibly tender crumb that stays moist for days
- Milk and sour cream: add richness and moisture to the bread
- Eggs: bind everything together while adding structure
- Vanilla extract: brings warmth and depth to the overall flavor
- Almond extract: enhances the natural pistachio flavor look for pure extract for best results
- All-purpose flour: forms the foundation of your bread
- Instant pistachio pudding mix: gives both color and concentrated flavor
- Baking powder and baking soda: ensure proper rise
- Kosher salt: balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors
- Chopped pistachios: add wonderful texture and visual appeal both inside and on top
- Powdered sugar: creates the perfect sweet glaze
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your 9x5 loaf pan with baking spray. The parchment paper sling is crucial for easy removal without damaging your beautiful loaf. Make sure the paper extends up the short sides of the pan so you can lift the bread out effortlessly after baking.
- Mix The Wet Ingredients:
- Combine sugar, oil, milk, sour cream, eggs, and both extracts in a large bowl. Mix until smooth but not overly aerated. This creates the base of your batter. The combination of oil and sour cream is key to achieving that incredibly moist texture that remains tender for days.
- Add Dry Ingredients:
- Add the flour, pistachio pudding mix, baking powder, baking soda, and salt directly to your wet ingredients. The pudding mix not only provides that gorgeous green color but also contains stabilizers that help maintain moisture. Mix until just combined avoid overmixing which can make your bread tough.
- Bake To Perfection:
- Pour your vibrant green batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle half the chopped pistachios on top. These will slightly sink in while baking, creating a beautiful nutty layer. The full hour of baking ensures the center is completely cooked while maintaining moisture throughout.
- Cool And Glaze:
- Allow your bread to cool in the pan for exactly 15 minutes. This resting period helps the structure set before removing. Use your parchment sling to lift the bread out and transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling. The almond flavored glaze adds the perfect sweet finish while the remaining pistachios provide both beauty and texture.
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The instant pistachio pudding mix is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. While you might be tempted to skip it, this little box transforms an ordinary quick bread into something extraordinary. My grandmother first introduced me to baking with pudding mixes in the 1980s, and this modern version always makes me think of her kitchen.
Perfect Pairings
This pistachio bread makes a wonderful companion to morning coffee or afternoon tea. The sweet almond notes complement the bitter notes in coffee particularly well. For a delightful dessert option, try warming a slice slightly and topping with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of warm bread and cold ice cream creates a simple yet impressive dessert.
Make It Your Own
While the recipe is perfect as written, you can customize it to suit your preferences. Add mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise, or fold in dried cranberries for a tart contrast to the sweet bread. For a more pronounced pistachio flavor, increase the chopped pistachios to 1/2 cup in the batter. White chocolate chips also make a delicious addition that complements the almond notes beautifully.
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The History Behind The Bread
Pistachio pudding bread gained popularity in American kitchens during the 1970s when convenience products like instant pudding became widespread. This version elevates the classic recipe with the addition of sour cream for extra moisture and almond extract to enhance the natural pistachio flavor. The recipe represents perfect balance between convenience and homemade goodness that has stood the test of time.
Storage Success
This bread actually improves in flavor after sitting overnight as the flavors meld together. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week for best quality. If you need to keep it longer, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag where they will maintain quality for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen slices at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, whole milk works well, but you can also try other options like plant-based milk if you need a dairy-free alternative.
- → How do I store the pistachio bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months.
- → Can I substitute the pistachio pudding mix?
The pudding mix enhances both texture and flavor, but if unavailable, try a similar pudding mix flavor for a slight variation.
- → How do I prevent sticking to the pan?
Use baking spray and line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper to ensure the bread lifts out easily once baked.
- → What substitutions work for sour cream?
You can use plain Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream if needed. It provides a similar texture and richness.