While scrolling through social media, you have seen numerous recipes using smooth, velvety pistachio paste. But, chances are that you have seen both pistachio cream and pistachio butter as these nut spreads are gaining massive popularity these days. Both of these look similar to each other due to their pastel green hues and silky texture, but it is hard to tell that they are different in purpose. So, what is the difference between pistachio cream and butter? And which one should you choose to make a part of your lifestyle?
Let's explore the benefits, texture, uses, and nutrition of each spread in this blog and make it easier for you to decide which gem should you be choosing.
The Basics of Pistachio Cream vs Pistachio Butter
The basic difference between pistachio cream and butter lies in their ingredients, textures, colors, and uses.
- Pistachio Butter: This thick, rich paste is made of roasted pistachios and sometimes a dash of salt is also added. This is made in the same way almond or peanut butter are made.
- Pistachio Cream: This, on the other hand, is sweet spread which typically consists of pistachios, milk, white chocolate, butter, and sometimes oil. Its consistency is smoother and silkier, making it more of a dessert-like indulgence.
Therefore, although both pistachio cream and butter have pistachios as their basic ingredient but their culinary uses and nutritional value differ from each other.
Nutritional Diversity: Which One's Better
To see which one aligns better with the nutritional needs of the body, let's compare their nutritional profiles.
Pistachio Butter: Pack of Nutrients
Made with only pistachios, pistachio butter is a full-blown package of nutrients. Here is what you get when you eat pistachio butter:
- Healthy fats
- Protein (plant-based)
- Fiber
- Potassium, magensium
- No added sugars
Pistachio butter is ideal for vegan, keto, and healthy lifestyles. It improves heart health and blood regulation in the body, and perfect for fitness-focused individuals.
Pistachio Cream: A Sweet Treat with Nutrition
Pistachio cream has some of the same nutrition as pistachio butter due to the presence of pistachios. However, since pistachio cream also contains oil/butter, sugar, and milk, it has more calories and carbs. However, pistachio cream provides:
- Some good fats
- Protein
- Vitamin E and B6
For clean eating and healthy lifestyle, pistachio butter is clearly the winner. But if you are craving for something sweet and indulgent, pistachio cream offers a middle ground. It can be more nutritional than conventional nuts spreads. So, it is slightly healthier than those sugary spreads.
Difference of Textures and Flavors
There might be a slight difference between pistachio cream and butter but when you taste these nut spreads, their difference becomes more apparent.
- Pistachio Butter is thick and grainy in texture with rich, nutty flavor and usually thicker in consistency. It is perfect to use as toasts spread, base of savory sauces, and salad dressings.
- Pistachio Cream is sweet which makes it ideal for desserts. It is velvety smooth in texture and it is commonly being used for baking, drizzling on pancakes or waffles, as cakes or chocolate's fillings, or most simply used as a spoonful over fruits bowl.
Want to taste the difference yourself? Try our pistachio cream recipe.
Is Pistachio Cream Healthy?
The health conscious eaters are usually in a dilemma about pistachio cream being healthy or not. The solution to this question lies in its ingredients and how it is made.
Pistachio cream, when bought from stores is less nutritional due to the added sugars and artificial flavors. This is why pistachios also loose their health benefits. However, when it is made at home using natural sweeteners and balanced ingredients, it can turn out to be much healthier option.
Explore more about Is Pistachio Cream Healthy? by reading a detailed guide with tips to make your own clean version.
Another important thing to consider is some common mistakes that occur while making pistachio cream at home. The videos on internet may seem simple but there are some easy and common mistakes that can ruin the texture and taste of your pistachio cream.
If you want to make it right the first time? Don’t miss our blog post on 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Making Pistachio Cream which is packed with expert tips and tricks to perfect your pistachio spread.
Pistachio Cream vs Pistachio Butter: The Final Comparision
| Feature | Pistachio Cream | Pistachio Butter |
| Common Usage | Desserts, spreading, filling, baking | Breakfast, smoothies, sauces, salad dressings |
| Texture | Velvety smooth | Thick and grainy |
| Flavor | Sweet | Earthy |
| Ingredients | Pistachios, milk, white chocolate, butter | Pistachios only |
| Health Benefits | Moderate- depends on ingredients | High |
| Ideal For | Sweet tooth | Fitness conscious |
Final Thoughts
The debate of pistachio cream vs pistachio butter is never ending. What's important to know is that none of these two nut spreads is right or wrong- only what’s right for your lifestyle and palate. If you have a sweet tooth, pistachio cream needs to be a part of your pantry. But, if you are a health focused individual, then the high-protein pistachio butter stands out.
On the side note, we recommend you to try both. Use pistachio butter in your breakfast, smoothies, and salads while keep pistachio cream saved for the weekends baking and dessert sessions. Whatever the decision might be, always remember to use high quality products to prepare the spreads. And don’t forget to check out our expert guides for making pistachio spreads the right way at FoodvLove home.
FAQs
Not always, Since pistachio cream is sweet it is usually the base ingredient for many desserts. Pistachio butter on the other hand work well in both sweet and savory dishes.
Pistachio butter is generally better since it has no added sugar and is more nutrient-dense. Just watch your portions due to its high calorie content.
Pistachio butter is usually vegan. Pistachio cream, depending on the brand or recipe, may contain dairy. Always check the label.
Homemade pistachio butter can last up to a month in the fridge. Pistachio cream, if made with dairy, should be consumed within 10 days and stored in an airtight container.
Yes both can be a healthy snack for kids when consumed in moderation. Pistachio butter is a great peanut butter alternative for lunches, and pistachio cream can be a special treat with fruit or whole-grain bread.
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