Description
This cardamom and pistachio cool whip frosting recipe offers a quick, light, and airy texture, perfect for elevating family-friendly treats into something special with its aromatic and easy-to-make nature.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar), sifted
- 1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
- 12 oz frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground green cardamom
- 0.5 cup shelled roasted unsalted pistachios, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon pure pistachio butter, for garnish
Instructions
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar to the cream cheese, beating on low speed until combined, then increase to medium-high and beat until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). Stir in the alcohol-free vanilla extract until just incorporated.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until no streaks remain and the mixture is uniformly light and airy.
- Incorporate Spices and Nuts: Carefully fold in the freshly ground cardamom and the finely chopped pistachios until just combined.
- Chill Frosting: Transfer the frosting to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up slightly before serving.
Notes
Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for a lump-free mixture. Chill the frosting for at least 30 minutes before serving for better stability. For enhanced flavor, lightly toast cardamom pods before grinding. Mascarpone or pure vanilla bean paste can be used for richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook, Mixing
- Cuisine: American (with Middle Eastern influence)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (approx 30g)
- Calories: 180 calories
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: cool whip frosting, cardamom, pistachio, easy dessert, no-bake, light frosting, airy, creamy