A unique twist on classic flavors, Banana Toast with Pistachio Cream is a simple anytime toast that can be enjoyed as breakfast, lunch, or even a snack. If you thought peanut butter and bananas were a match made in heaven, then you need to try this creamy, dreamy, nutty pistachio version. And the best part? That final drizzle of sweet honey for a little something extra.
I've been obsessed with pistachios lately. Between making ice cream, muffins, or just chopping them and adding them to salads, they are just so versatile (I'm also a sucker for the pretty green hue).
After getting tired of staring at my jar of peanut butter, I decided to swap out the classic for creamy pistachio. Paired with bananas, it's as delicious as it sounds, and more reason for me to keep the green stuff stocked in my pantry.
This banana toast is a full on meal, that will keep you satisfied and full. It's fancy enough for even the snobbiest brunch-goers, and will win the hearts of toddlers everywhere!
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Let's talk pistachio cream
Before we talk about the creamy stuff, there are 3 different pistachio spreads you will come across- pistachio paste, pistachio butter, and pistachio cream.
Pistachio paste is a thick, smooth paste made from ground pistachios. It does not contain any other ingredients, like sugar, oil, or milk often found in other ground pistachio products such as pistachio cream.
Pistachio butter is also made from ground pistachios similar to peanut or almond butter. It's more coarse than pistachio paste.
Pistachio cream (pistachio crema) on the other hand, is a sweetened, flavored version of pistachio paste. Some are very decadent, incorporating sugar, milk, butter, and white chocolate. Others are more simply flavored with only sugar and/or honey. The consistency is usually smooth, and creamy, and the color ranging from bright green to less intense greens.
While technically you can use any of the above for this banana toast, I opt for the sweet, creamy, flavored stuff-because my bananas deserve the very best!
Ingredients
Once you hunt down pistachio cream, the rest is smooth sailing. And don't worry, pistachio cream is becoming more and more popular, and is readily available either in store or online.
- Pistachio cream (pistachio crema, crema di pistacchio) - Look for Italian or Mediterranean brands for the best quality. I buy mine online, but larger retailers like Costco have been carrying it as well as smaller grocery stores. My neighborhood grocery store just started selling pistachio cream, although it was located in the cheese section (as a charcuterie option). It will most likely be found near the peanut butter.
- Bananas- Not overripe, but perfect for slicing.
- Honey- For drizzling over the toast.
- Pistachios- I crush a few pistachios on top for added texture and crunch.
- Bread- Choose a hearty bread that can stand up to heavy toppings (sourdough, multigrain, etc.).
- Edible rose petals- Totally optional. If you know me, you know I like a little extra sparkle. I love the contrast of color too.
Step by step instructions
Just grab a knife, and start spreading! It's that easy. Toast the bread in a skillet for best results.
Start with two slices of toasted bread.
Spread 1-2 tablespoons of pistachio cream over the toast.
Slice up some bananas and place them on top of the pistachio layer.
Drizzle with honey, then add the crushed pistachios and rose petals if using.
💡Expert tip
For even toasting, heat a skillet on medium with a little butter, add the bread, and toast until golden brown on both sides.
Substitutions and variations
This easy banana toast with pistachio cream be prepared with a few tweaks. Here are some suggestions to try:
- Use different fruit- Replace the bananas with apples or peaches.
- Add spices- For a unique flavor twist, sprinkle ground cardamom or cinnamon over the pistachio cream, before adding the bananas.
- Skip the toast- Not in the mood for a full on meal? Skip the bread, and prepare a platter of sliced bananas topped with a dollop of pistachio cream.
- Replace the pistachio cream- Use traditional peanut butter or almond butter.
- Drizzle the top with melted chocolate- Even better- try melting a little Nutella and drizzling it over the top.
What to serve with banana toast
Since this is pretty decadent as is, I recommend just washing it down with a refreshing beverage, or your favorite coffee or tea drink.
If you have a bolder appetite, try adding a side of scrambled eggs or a lighter fruit parfait.
Lastly, for a fun appetizer, or personal dessert, make mini banana toast versions using crostini. Just slice a baguette on an angle, toast it up and proceed with the toast instructions. Guests will love these hand held toasts!
Storage
This toast is best eaten right away, but rest assured, leftovers are highly unlikely!
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you certainly can. The textures will range depending on which you choose, but the pistachio flavor will still shine. Keep in mind, depending on the brand and type of pistachio spread you choose, the colors can range from green to brown. Lastly, you can always add a bit more honey to sweeten the pistachio butter or paste if it's too bland.
Perfect pairings
Let's toast to delicious pairings!
Made this recipe? I'd love to hear about it. Please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and comment below the recipe. Snapped a photo? Tag @brunchandbatter on Instagram so I can see your creation!
📖Recipe
Banana Toast with Pistachio Cream
Equipment
- toaster or skillet for toasting the bread
Ingredients
- 2 slices thick, crusty bread sourdough, multigrain, etc.
- 2-4 tablespoon pistachio cream (pistachio crema, crema di pistacchio)
- 1 banana, sliced
- 2 tablespoon chopped, shelled pistachios (unsalted)
- honey for drizzling
- 1 pinch flaky sea salt, optional
- edible rose petals for topping, optional
Instructions
- Toast the bread in a toaster or pan fry on medium with a little butter until golden brown on both sides.2 slices thick, crusty bread
- Spread the pistachio cream evenly on the toast-top with bananas, a drizzle of honey, and the chopped pistachios. Serve immediately sprinkled with sea salt and rose petals (if using).2-4 tablespoon pistachio cream (pistachio crema, crema di pistacchio), 1 banana, sliced, 2 tablespoon chopped, shelled pistachios (unsalted), honey for drizzling, edible rose petals for topping, optional, 1 pinch flaky sea salt, optional
Notes
Nutrition*
*Nutrition information is an estimate and provided as a courtesy. Actual values may vary based on ingredients, measurements, and substitutions.
barbara says
This was so simple and really good! I never tried pistachio cream before, and now I can't not have it in my pantry!