Salt and Straw Pistachio Saffron Rose Ice Cream Recipe

This Salt & Straw Pistachio Saffron Rose Ice Cream combines the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios with the exotic essence of saffron and rosewater. A creamy, luxurious treat that's perfect for special occasions or when you want to indulge in something unique and delicious.

If there’s one ice cream flavor that brings elegance and surprise with every bite, it’s the Salt & Straw Pistachio Saffron Rose Ice Cream. Imagine the earthy richness of pistachios melting alongside the subtle warmth of saffron, with just the right hint of rose to make every scoop feel luxurious. This recipe is all about blending flavors you might not usually expect to find in a dessert together, creating a taste that’s unforgettable and sophisticated. Perfect for those who love the bold and aromatic, it’s an ice cream that’s as much about the experience as it is about the taste.

Salt & Straw is known for creating flavors that push the boundaries of typical ice cream, and this one does not disappoint. With this recipe, we’re going to get you close to that same incredible combination they’ve perfected. Trust me, when you try this, it’ll be a standout hit at any gathering or even as an indulgent treat just for you. But before we dive in, I’ll share a few essential pointers on what makes this particular flavor so unique, along with some insider tips on the ingredients to ensure the best results.

What Makes Salt & Straw Pistachio Saffron Rose Ice Cream Special?

This ice cream is inspired by Middle Eastern and Persian flavors, pulling together a beautiful trio of ingredients that each hold their own in the culinary world: pistachios, saffron, and rose. These flavors complement each other perfectly; the pistachios bring a nutty, creamy taste, the saffron adds warmth and a golden hue, and the rosewater provides a subtle floral note that’s both refreshing and complex.

There’s a reason people love Salt & Straw’s inventive creations like their Artisan-style Strawberry Cheesecake or their Chocolate Candy Molds—they bring fresh, unexpected combinations to life. This Pistachio Saffron Rose Ice Cream is no different; it’s a recipe that feels exotic yet familiar, and definitely worth making from scratch.

And if you’re already a fan of unique desserts, this ice cream pairs beautifully with lighter dishes like a Boba Shop Fries Recipe or Cottage Cheese Flatbread. It’s all about balance!

Key Ingredients and What They Bring to the Flavor

1. Pistachio Paste

The pistachio flavor in this ice cream is both bold and subtle, and to get it right, I recommend using a good-quality pistachio paste. Pistachio paste gives a smooth texture and a more intense pistachio taste than simply using whole pistachios.

If you’ve ever tried your hand at creating something like a Sweet Potato Bread or Big Benny Bao Bun, you’ll know that pure, rich flavors often come down to quality ingredients. The same goes for pistachio paste; make sure it’s made with only pistachios and not overly sweetened or mixed with other nuts.

2. Saffron

This spice is sometimes called “red gold,” and for good reason—it’s both unique and expensive. Saffron comes from the delicate stigma of the crocus flower, which has to be harvested by hand. Its deep, earthy flavor and golden color add a richness to this ice cream that’s hard to replicate.

It’s crucial to bloom the saffron in a bit of warm water to unlock its full potential. Think of it like letting loose the essence of saffron, bringing out that beautiful color and aroma. For anyone who’s curious about working with spices, recipes like the Heaven and Hell Sheet Cake use a similar method to intensify ingredients’ natural flavors.

3. Rosewater

Rosewater is a game-changer in ice cream. It’s a traditional ingredient in Middle Eastern desserts, bringing a delicate floral hint that balances the richness of pistachio and saffron perfectly. The key with rosewater is moderation; a little goes a long way. Use too much, and it can overwhelm the other flavors.

Rosewater is readily available at most supermarkets or specialty stores, and it can add a surprising layer to everything from Daylily Fritters to Orange Creamsicle Frosties. Keep it on hand if you enjoy floral flavors in your cooking.

Additional Ingredients

Besides the big three, you’ll need a few basics: whole milk, heavy cream, egg yolks, and sugar to form the creamy custard base. This base is what gives the ice cream its velvety smooth texture, which is essential when you’re combining such rich and aromatic flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Ice Cream Recipe

This recipe is a celebration of flavors that might be new to some, yet comforting to others. The pistachio’s earthy nuttiness, the rich warmth of saffron, and the subtle floral notes from rosewater blend together seamlessly, creating a unique taste experience. This ice cream is perfect for a special event like an elegant dinner party, or even just as a treat for yourself on a quiet evening.

It’s also incredibly versatile—try pairing it with desserts like Homemade Eskimo Pies or even alongside fresh Lombatello Steak. Each bite feels like a culinary adventure, giving you a taste of the exotic with a homemade touch. And if you’ve ever enjoyed a dish like the Mei and Kyong Egg Fried Rice, you know the magic of blending flavors from across the globe.

How to Make Salt & Straw Pistachio Saffron Rose Ice Cream

With all our ingredients laid out, let's dive into crafting this luxurious ice cream. This recipe follows a traditional custard-style method, giving the final product a rich, creamy texture that’s perfect for holding up these bold flavors. I’ve added tips along the way to help you master each step!

Step 1: Bloom the Saffron

Blooming saffron is essential here. It helps to release the full depth of saffron’s golden color and warm, earthy flavor.

1. In a small bowl, add about 1 teaspoon of saffron threads.
2. Pour in 1 tablespoon of warm water and let it sit for around 10 minutes. This brings out the full essence of the saffron, infusing the water with its color and aroma.

While you’re waiting for the saffron to bloom, go ahead and start prepping your custard base. This little waiting step is a great time to get things organized!

Step 2: Make the Ice Cream Base

The base is where you’ll create that creamy, custard-like texture that takes this ice cream to the next level. With each bite, you’ll notice how the ingredients blend together smoothly, without any icy texture.

1. Combine Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, add 1 ½ cups of whole milk and 1 ½ cups of heavy cream. Slowly heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You want it hot but not boiling.

2. Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together 4 egg yolks and ¾ cup of sugar until the mixture becomes pale yellow and creamy.

3. Temper the Eggs: Here’s the trickiest part, but don’t worry, you’ll nail it! Slowly pour about ½ cup of the hot milk-cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking continuously. This tempers the yolks so they don’t scramble when you add them to the hot mixture.

4. Combine the Mixtures: Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the milk and cream.

5. Cook Until Thickened: Stir continuously over low heat until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 170-175°F or 76-80°C if you’re using a thermometer). This step is where your patience pays off; low heat ensures a smooth, creamy custard without any curdling.

Step 3: Add the Flavors

Now it’s time to introduce the star ingredients! This step is where the magic of this Salt & Straw-inspired recipe really begins to shine.

1. Stir in the Pistachio Paste: Add ½ cup of pistachio paste to your custard base. This paste brings a silky texture and intense nutty flavor that complements the saffron and rose perfectly.

2. Add the Bloomed Saffron and Rosewater: Pour in the saffron along with its water, giving the base a beautiful golden color. Add 1 tablespoon of rosewater next—just enough for that subtle floral touch.

If you’ve ever made desserts like Blue Jam Garlic Aioli or a Bun Rieu Recipe, you’ll know that adding these kinds of bold ingredients can really enhance the flavor profile, making the dessert unique.

Step 4: Chill the Base

This step ensures your ice cream churns to a creamy consistency without ice crystals. The colder the base, the smoother the final texture will be.

1. Strain the Mixture: Pour the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any tiny bits that may have curdled.

2. Cover and Refrigerate: Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. An overnight chill is ideal as it allows the flavors to blend and the custard to thicken.

Step 5: Churn the Ice Cream

Now we’re onto the most rewarding step—transforming that flavorful custard into luscious ice cream.

1. Pour the Chilled Base into the Ice Cream Maker: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your ice cream maker. Generally, churning will take around 20-25 minutes.

2. Add Chopped Pistachios (Optional): For a bit of texture, add ¼ cup of chopped pistachios during the last 5 minutes of churning. It gives you a delightful crunch with each spoonful, contrasting beautifully with the creamy base.

If you’re a fan of adding textures to your desserts, this step will remind you of creating that perfect texture balance in Cheesesteak Tortellini, where texture and flavor meet in every bite.

Step 6: Freeze and Serve

Once you’ve churned the ice cream to your desired consistency, it’s time to let it set.

1. Transfer to a Freezer-Safe Container: Pour the churned ice cream into an airtight container and smooth the top. Press a piece of parchment paper directly onto the surface to prevent ice crystals from forming.

2. Freeze for at Least 2 Hours: The ice cream will firm up but still retain that luscious, scoopable texture.

When it’s ready to serve, scoop it into bowls and garnish with a few extra pistachios or even a sprinkle of saffron if you’re feeling fancy. This dessert is a perfect match with delicate treats like Street Corn Popcorn Seasoning or Piccadilly Hamburger Steak.

Tips for Perfecting Your Pistachio Saffron Rose Ice Cream

• Use Quality Ingredients: Authentic saffron and pure rosewater are crucial for getting the right flavor balance. Look for products that have no added fillers or artificial flavors.

• Don’t Skip the Tempering: Tempering the eggs may seem tricky, but it prevents curdling and ensures a silky texture. Take it slow, and don’t rush this step.

• Adjust the Rosewater to Taste: If you’re new to floral flavors, start with a smaller amount and adjust. Rosewater can be quite potent, and a little goes a long way.

This Salt & Straw Pistachio Saffron Rose Ice Cream is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. Every spoonful brings out the warm, nutty pistachio, the delicate floral notes of rose, and the unmistakable richness of saffron. Whether it’s for a special gathering or just because you want to try something adventurous, this recipe is worth every step.

Serving Your Pistachio Saffron Rose Ice Cream

Once your Salt & Straw Pistachio Saffron Rose Ice Cream is frozen and ready to serve, you can get creative with how you present it. This dessert is luxurious and perfect for special occasions, but it’s equally impressive when enjoyed on a casual afternoon.

Here are a few ideas to take your ice cream to the next level:

1. Garnish with Crushed Pistachios: A sprinkle of chopped or crushed pistachios on top not only enhances the visual appeal but adds texture to every scoop.

2. Serve with a Drizzle of Honey: A touch of warm honey drizzled over the top can complement the flavors beautifully. Honey pairs so well with pistachio and saffron, adding a subtle sweetness without overpowering the delicate rosewater.

3. Pair with Cardamom Biscuits: If you’re looking to serve this ice cream as part of a dessert spread, pair it with Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread or a crunchy cardamom biscuit. The earthy warmth of cardamom ties in wonderfully with the flavor profile of the ice cream.

4. Serve in a Glass: If you’re feeling extra, try serving this ice cream in elegant dessert glasses with some additional toppings, like a few delicate rose petals or an extra pinch of saffron.

Best Time to Serve Pistachio Saffron Rose Ice Cream

This Salt & Straw Pistachio Saffron Rose Ice Cream is an excellent choice for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a holiday, or simply enjoying a luxurious treat after dinner, this dessert is bound to impress. Here’s when it would truly shine:

• Special Occasions: The complex, aromatic flavors of saffron and rosewater make this ice cream perfect for special celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, or even a romantic date night.

• Summer Gatherings: With its refreshing, creamy texture, this ice cream is ideal for summer afternoons. Pair it with light meals like Boba Shop Fries or even a grilled fish dish like California Corbina Recipe for a perfect balance of flavors.

• Festive Gatherings: Whether it’s a New Year’s Eve party or a holiday dinner, the golden color and distinct flavors of this ice cream will surely stand out on the dessert table.

Flavor Variations and Customizations

If you’re in the mood to play around with the recipe, there are a few tweaks you can try. Here are some variations that could work well without compromising the original flavor profile:

1. Replace Rosewater with Orange Blossom Water: If you prefer a citrus twist, substitute rosewater with a few drops of orange blossom water. This will provide a lighter floral flavor that still complements the pistachio and saffron beautifully.

2. Add a Splash of Almond Extract: For a slightly nuttier flavor, add a teaspoon of almond extract to the base. The almond extract will heighten the pistachio flavor, making the ice cream even richer.

3. Add a Touch of Citrus Zest: A little orange or lemon zest added to the custard base can brighten up the flavors, balancing the richness of the cream and the warmth of saffron.

4. Incorporate Candied Orange Peel: For a slightly chewy texture with a burst of citrus flavor, finely chop some candied orange peel and fold it into the ice cream before churning.

How to Store Leftovers

If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers (though, let’s be real, it’s a long shot), here’s how to store your Salt & Straw Pistachio Saffron Rose Ice Cream to maintain its creamy texture and flavors:

1. Use an Airtight Container: Always store your ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and keep the ice cream fresh. Make sure to press a piece of parchment paper against the surface of the ice cream to prevent air from getting in.

2. Freezing Tip: This ice cream can be stored for up to a week without losing much of its creamy texture. After this, it may begin to harden a bit too much, so be sure to enjoy it within a few days.

3. Defrosting: If you do need to defrost, do so slowly in the fridge for a few hours, or leave it at room temperature for about 10 minutes. It will return to its smooth and scoopable consistency.

Why You’ll Love This Pistachio Saffron Rose Ice Cream

• Decadent yet Light: The creamy texture of the custard base perfectly complements the nutty pistachio and the floral rosewater, while the saffron adds a rich golden hue and subtle depth. It’s indulgent, yet light enough for warm weather.

• Sophisticated Flavors: If you’ve ever had a chance to try Bertucci Sausage Soup or Zamorano Buns, you know that combining unique flavors can elevate a dish to something truly special. This ice cream is no different—it’s a sophisticated combination of flavors that feels both luxurious and comforting.

• Impressive to Guests: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just inviting over a few friends, this ice cream will definitely steal the show. The combination of flavors feels exotic but familiar, which will spark conversation and admiration from your guests.

• Easy to Make at Home: Don’t let the idea of making homemade ice cream intimidate you! Once you get the hang of tempering the eggs and following the basic steps, you’ll find that homemade ice cream is fun and rewarding.

Salt and Straw Pistachio Saffron Rose Ice Cream Recipe

This Salt & Straw Pistachio Saffron Rose Ice Cream is a luxurious and aromatic treat that combines the nutty richness of pistachios with the exotic flavors of saffron and rosewater. The creamy texture and unique combination of flavors make it a perfect dessert for special occasions or a decadent homemade indulgence.

Ingredients

• 1 cup shelled pistachios, toasted
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 5 large egg yolks
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 2 teaspoons rosewater
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for added thickness)

Instructions

1. Toast the pistachios in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, then set aside to cool.
2. In a small bowl, bloom the saffron by adding it to 2 tablespoons of warm water and letting it sit for 5–10 minutes.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
4. While the milk mixture heats, whisk together the egg yolks in a separate bowl.
5. Slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Gradually add the rest of the milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking continuously.
6. Return the egg-milk mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5 minutes). Do not let it boil.
7. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the saffron, rosewater, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine.
8. Transfer the custard to a heatproof bowl and let it cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
9. Once chilled, pour the custard into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions.
10. In the last few minutes of churning, add the toasted pistachios to the ice cream base. Continue to churn until fully combined and the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency.
11. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm. Serve and enjoy!

15 minutes prep time with 30 minutes cook time.

Serves 6 and contains approximately 300 calories per serving.

American, Middle Eastern / Dessert, Ice Cream

Rated 4.8 by 1573 reviewers.

Recipe Tags: Pistachio, Saffron, Rosewater, Ice Cream, Homemade Ice Cream, Luxury Desserts, Middle Eastern Desserts, Salt and Straw

Published by: Show Recipe

This Salt & Straw Pistachio Saffron Rose Ice Cream is a labor of love that’s more than just an indulgence—it’s an experience. From the initial preparation of blooming the saffron to the final scoop, it’s a journey of flavors and textures that’s bound to impress.

So, whether you’re treating yourself, making a batch for a gathering, or simply trying out something new in the kitchen, this ice cream is sure to bring joy to the table. The best part? You don’t have to travel to a special shop to get a taste of Salt & Straw’s iconic flavors. You can make it right at home, with a few key ingredients and a little patience.

If you’re craving more sweet treats, be sure to check out Snickers Strawberry Cheesecake or the Big Benny Bao Bun for more delicious ideas that complement the flavors of this ice cream.