Why People Are Going NUTS For Pistachio In 2024

Lately, you may have noticed pistachio has been everywhere - from pistachio lattes and perfumes to home decor in the colour pistachio and pistachio-filled croissants.

It’s clear that this nut is having its moment, and you’ve been living under a rock if you haven’t realised!

But why is this little green nut our current 'it girl'? We delve into all things pistachio and discuss some of our favourite of it’s trends...

Pistachios originate in the Middle East but are now cultivated all over the world including in the US, Iran and Turkey. They hold various health benefits since they are nutrient-dense, high in both protein and healthy fats, and are a great source of antioxidants.

Because of this, they have consistently been praised as an optimal snack choice. But it’s not just the nourishing qualities of pistachio that has secured its newfound status. It has a distinct yet mild nutty flavour complimented by a buttery texture, which, paired with its vibrant green and purple complexion, makes this nut delightfully appealing.

Baklava

One of the oldest and most famous pistachio based delicacies is baklava, a traditional Middle Eastern pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped pistachios, butter and honey. It's frequently enjoyed at special occasions and celebrations throughout a number of different cultures.

You can find baklava in speciality or Middle Eastern grocery stores as well as bakeries and restaurants. If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll love this delicious treat; the crunchy golden pastry paired with the nutty pistachio filling and fragrant, infused honey makes it irresistible.  

Gelato

Pistachio-flavoured gelato is another well-known and popular dessert, enjoyed by many ice cream lovers all over the world. You can find it at most ice cream parlours and Italian restaurants, and it is, for many, a notable pistachio creation, perhaps even the initial encounter with the flavour.

Whether enjoyed on a hot summer day or as a delightful treat year-round, Italian pistachio gelato remains a favourite among gelato enthusiasts for its distinct taste and creamy consistency.

Another traditional Italian and pistachio filled dessert which we are obsessed with is pistachio cannoli which are little pastry tubes filled with ricotta-based flavours. Obviously pistachio is the best though, you have to try if you haven’t already!  

Pistachio Lattes

The pistachio latte is where we first started seeing the crossover from traditional pistachio desserts into what has become the mainstream pistachio craze.

It was Starbucks that first launched the pistachio latte in 2019 - it was later discontinued but brought back in early 2023, contributing to the 2023 pistachio hype. Other coffee shops then hopped on board, including Caffe Nero which now has its own signature Salted Caramel & Pistachio Latte - if you want to try it for yourself, remember you can get 25% off barista-made drinks with your Coffee Club membership!

Pistachio Croissant

The pistachio-filled croissant is our favourite pistachio trend. Who could resist a buttery, flaky croissant filled with luxurious, nutty and velvety pistachio cream?!

This indulgent pastry was made viral in Manchester over the summer by The Flat Baker in Ancoats which serves the croissant with a pot of its famous pistachio sauce so you can dunk as much as you want, as well as with a squirt of whipped cream.

The bakery had a stall at the Manchester Christmas Markets last year which gained these pastries even more popularity. You can find a pistachio croissant if you’re lucky at your local speciality bakery or coffee shop - it’s worth the hunting around trust us!  

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