Pistachio Tiramisu

Step 1

In a food processor, add the shelled pistachios. Blend the pistachios until they form a smooth thick paste. Once smooth, add the 2 tablespoons of water, 1/3 cup powdered sugar and olive oil. Continue to blend until the pistachio butter balls together and looks smooth and glossy. If using roasted pistachios, it will be a dark brown-green color. Set aside.

Step 2

In a large bowl, using an electric mixer or stand mixer, beat egg yolks and sugar until thick and pale, about 5 minutes. Add mascarpone cheese and beat until smooth. Add the almond extract and mix. Remove 2/3 of the mixture into a separate small bowl. In the large bowl with the remaining 1/3 of mascarpone, add the pistachio butter. Mix on high speed until smooth and pale green, wiping down the sides with a rubber spatula as necessary.

Step 3

In a shallow bowl, add espresso and amaretto liqueur. Dip each ladyfinger into espresso for only 5 seconds max (letting the ladyfingers soak too long will cause them to fall apart). Place half of the soaked ladyfingers on the bottom of a 9 by 9 inch baking dish, breaking them in half if necessary, to fit the bottom.

Step 4

Spread the pistachio-mascarpone mixture on top of the first layer of ladyfingers, smoothing it out to evenly cover. Place the second half of soaked ladyfingers on top. Spread the rest of the plain mascarpone mixture on top to cover the ladyfingers.

Step 5

Cover tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, and up to 24 hours before serving.

Step 6

Before cutting and serving, sprinkle with chopped pistachios if desired.