Pistazien Sterne, meaning pistachio stars, is a refined dessert inspired by the rich and elegant flavors of Middle Eastern chocolate creations. This dessert combines smooth chocolate mousse with creamy pistachio notes and a crunchy topping, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Inspired by the famous Dubai-style chocolate mousse, Pistazien Sterne is an easy yet luxurious dessert that looks impressive while remaining simple to prepare at home.
What Is Pistazien Sterne?
Pistazien Sterne is a layered dessert featuring:
- A silky chocolate mousse base
- Pistachio cream blended into the chocolate
- A crunchy golden topping made with toasted pastry or nuts
- A final pistachio garnish that resembles little “stars” on top
The name reflects both the pistachio flavor and the elegant star-like appearance created by the crunchy topping and chopped nuts.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Pistachio Mousse
- Dark or milk chocolate (high quality)
- Unsalted butter
- Heavy whipping cream (cold)
- Pistachio cream or pistachio paste
- Tahini (optional but recommended)
- Vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For the Crunchy Pistachio Topping
- Shredded kataifi pastry or crushed biscuits
- Butter
- Chopped roasted pistachios
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate
Break the chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl. Add the butter and melt gently using a double boiler or microwave in short intervals. Stir until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Add Pistachio Flavor
Stir the pistachio cream into the melted chocolate until fully combined. Add tahini, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the texture is smooth and uniform.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. The cream should be light and airy but not over-whipped.
Step 4: Fold the Mousse
Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate-pistachio mixture using a spatula. Do this in two to three additions, folding slowly to keep the mousse light and fluffy.
Step 5: Portion and Chill
Spoon the mousse into individual serving glasses or cups. Smooth the top and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
Preparing the Pistazien Sterne Topping
Step 6: Toast the Crunch
In a pan over medium heat, melt a small amount of butter. Add the shredded kataifi pastry or crushed biscuits and toast until golden and crispy. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
Step 7: Add Pistachios
Remove from heat and mix in the chopped roasted pistachios. Let the mixture cool completely before using.
Final Assembly
Step 8: Decorate
Once the mousse has set, sprinkle the crunchy pistachio topping generously over each serving. The pistachios will create a star-like pattern on top, giving the dessert its signature Pistazien Sterne look.
Serving Tips
- Serve chilled for best texture
- Use clear glasses to show the layers
- Add extra pistachio pieces for a more elegant finish
- Ideal for dinner parties, festive tables, or dessert buffets
Storage
- Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days
- Do not freeze, as the mousse texture may change
- Add the crunchy topping just before serving to keep it crisp
Why This Dessert Is So Popular
- Rich and creamy texture
- Balanced sweetness with nutty depth
- No baking required
- Elegant presentation with minimal effort
- Perfect for individual servings
This dessert is especially popular among pistachio lovers and fans of modern Middle Eastern desserts.
Conclusion
Pistazien Sterne is a stunning pistachio chocolate dessert that combines simplicity with luxury. Inspired by Dubai-style chocolate mousse, it delivers a rich, creamy experience with a satisfying crunch. With no baking required and straightforward steps, this dessert is perfect for anyone looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.