Pistachio Cream Cake Recipe

Dreamy Pistachio Cream Cake Recipe: A Luscious Treat

Crafting a delectable pistachio cream cake brings pure joy to any dessert lover’s kitchen.

Nutty aromas will dance through your home as you mix ingredients.

Sweet expectations start building with each carefully measured component.

Soft, velvety textures promise a memorable slice of deliciousness.

Mediterranean traditions inspire this elegant dessert that feels both classic and contemporary.

Delicate green hues and rich flavors combine in a dessert that looks as spectacular as it tastes.

Baking this cake promises a delightful adventure you won’t want to miss.

Why Pistachio Cream Cake Is So Popular
  • Customize with Ease: Ground pistachios can be adjusted to suit personal taste preferences, making this recipe wonderfully adaptable for different palates and occasions.
  • Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Minimal steps and straightforward mixing process mean you can create a delectable dessert without spending hours in the kitchen, ideal for both novice and experienced bakers.
  • Versatile Celebration Treat: Suitable for birthdays, afternoon tea, potlucks, or just a delightful weekend indulgence, this cake brings a touch of sophistication to any gathering.

Ingredients Needed for Pistachio Cream Cake

Cake Base Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: A soft and fine ingredient that provides the cake's primary structure and texture.
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Leavening agents that help the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the cake.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Butter: Adds richness and contributes to the cake's soft and tender crumb.
  • Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a golden-brown crust.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture to the cake.
  • Vanilla: Brings a warm and aromatic flavor to the cake.
  • Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter.
Pistachio and Topping Ingredients:
  • Ground Pistachios: Adds a nutty flavor and unique green color to the cake.
  • Heavy Cream, Powdered Sugar: Creates a light and fluffy frosting with a smooth texture.
  • Crushed Pistachios: Provides a crunchy garnish and decorative element for the cake.

How to Bake Pistachio Cream Cake Perfectly

How to Bake Pistachio Cream Cake Perfectly

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Warm up your oven to a cozy 350°F.

Grab your cake pan and give it a generous coating of grease to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Grab a mixing bowl and whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt until they’re perfectly blended.

Step 3: Create Creamy Base

In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar until they transform into a fluffy cloud-like mixture.

Crack in eggs and splash of vanilla, mixing until everything looks smooth and inviting.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with splashes of milk.

Keep mixing until everything looks harmonious.

Sprinkle in ground pistachios for that nutty magic.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan.

Slide it into the oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Step 6: Cool Down

Allow the cake to completely cool, giving it time to settle and develop its gorgeous texture.

Step 7: Whip Up Dreamy Frosting

Grab your mixer and whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until it forms beautiful stiff peaks.

Step 8: Decorate with Flair

Spread the luscious frosting all over the cooled cake.

Sprinkle crushed pistachios on top for a beautiful and crunchy finish.

Step 9: Serve and Celebrate

Slice into your masterpiece and enjoy every single bite of this pistachio dream!

Tips to Make Pistachio Cake Moist and Fluffy

  • Select fresh, vibrant green pistachios for the most intense flavor and color in your cake.
  • Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature to create a smoother, more uniform batter.
  • Lightly coat ground pistachios in flour before adding to the batter to prevent them from settling at the bottom.
  • Gently fold ingredients until just combined to maintain a light, tender cake texture.
  • Cool the cake completely before adding whipped cream frosting to prevent melting and maintain a clean finish.

Delicious Twists on Classic Pistachio Cake

  • Gluten-Free Pistachio Cake: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly version. Use xanthan gum to improve texture and binding.
  • Vegan Pistachio Cream Cake: Swap butter with coconut oil, eggs with flax eggs, and heavy cream with cashew cream. Use plant-based milk and vegan vanilla extract.
  • Low-Sugar Pistachio Cake: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter frosting and reduce overall sugar content.
  • Nut-Free Alternative: Replace pistachios with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Use seed flour and seed butter to maintain similar nutty flavor profile while accommodating nut allergies.

Serving Ideas for Pistachio Cream Cake

  • Elegant Tea Party Pairing: Serve slices alongside delicate Earl Grey tea for a sophisticated afternoon treat that elevates the cake's nutty flavor.
  • Dessert Buffet Star: Create a stunning display by arranging cake slices on a beautiful platter with fresh mint leaves and whole pistachios scattered around for an Instagram-worthy presentation.
  • Decadent Dessert Companion: Top each slice with a scoop of pistachio gelato or vanilla bean ice cream for an extra luxurious touch that complements the cake's rich texture.
  • Brunch Centerpiece: Pair with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream to transform this cake into a show-stopping weekend brunch dessert that will impress guests.

Storing Tips for Pistachio Cream Cake Freshness

  • Store covered cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep frosted side protected with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bag. Freeze for 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before enjoying.
  • Warm refrigerated cake slices in microwave for 15-20 seconds. For frozen slices, let thaw completely before gently reheating to maintain moisture and texture.

FAQs

  • What makes pistachios special in this cake?

Pistachios add a unique nutty flavor, rich green color, and provide a delightful crunch that elevates the cake’s texture and taste.

  • Is this cake good for people with nut allergies?

No, this cake contains pistachios throughout the batter and as a garnish, so it’s not suitable for those with nut allergies.

  • Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

While pistachios are the star, you can substitute with almonds or walnuts, though the distinctive pistachio flavor will be lost.

  • How do I know if I've ground the pistachios correctly?

The pistachios should be finely ground but not turned into a paste – a food processor or blender works best for achieving the right consistency.

Print
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Pistachio Cream Cake Recipe

Pistachio Cream Cake Recipe


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4.6 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Silky pistachio cream cake whispers Italian dessert elegance with delicate layers of nutty richness. Gentle pistachios and smooth cream invite you to savor each luxurious bite of Mediterranean pastry perfection.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup pistachios, finely ground
  • 1 cup granulated sugar

Liquid Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Leavening and Seasoning:

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350F (175C) and coating a cake pan with a thin layer of grease to prevent sticking.
  2. Combine dry ingredients in a mixing bowl, whisking flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until thoroughly integrated.
  3. Cream butter and sugar in a separate bowl using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light and airy, creating a fluffy texture.
  4. Incorporate eggs and vanilla extract into the butter mixture, blending until smooth and well-combined.
  5. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with milk to maintain a consistent batter texture. Gently fold in ground pistachios to distribute evenly.
  6. Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan, ensuring an even spread.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should emerge clean when the cake is fully baked.
  8. Remove from oven and allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature, which prevents frosting from melting.
  9. Prepare the frosting by whipping heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff, glossy peaks form.
  10. Once cooled, generously spread the whipped cream frosting over the entire cake surface.
  11. Sprinkle crushed pistachios across the top for added texture and visual appeal.
  12. Slice into servings and savor the delicate pistachio cream cake.

Notes

  • Swap ground pistachios with almond flour for a different nutty flavor profile that complements the cake’s texture.
  • Use coconut sugar instead of regular sugar to create a lower glycemic index dessert with subtle caramel undertones.
  • Toast pistachios before grinding to enhance their natural richness and develop deeper, more complex nutty notes in the cake.
  • Consider folding whipped cream frosting gently to maintain its airy structure and prevent deflating the delicate texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 273 kcal
  • Sugar: 13 g
  • Sodium: 160 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 31 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Developing single-serving recipes with a rustic, seasonal twist.
  • Crafting engaging food insights that connect with readers.
  • Developing content that educates readers on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Integrating local ingredients into accessible home cooking.​

Education

Blue Ridge Community College – Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on seasonal cooking, sustainable kitchen practices, and farm-to-table techniques.

Appalachian State University – B.A. in English
Built critical thinking and analysis through diverse texts. Guided by faculty, it prepares graduates for publishing and more.


Growing up in the rolling hills of North Carolina, Lucas learned early that some of life’s best memories start around a kitchen table. After studying English at Appalachian State University and honing his culinary skills at Blue Ridge Community College, he dreamed of blending storytelling with rustic, seasonal cooking, and The Scrumptious Pumpkin was born.
Lucas focuses on easy, single-serving recipes that turn fresh, local ingredients into something special. His style is simple, heartfelt, and rooted in the beauty of the seasons. When he’s not testing a new dish, you’ll probably find him hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, browsing farmers’ markets, or scribbling food stories in a notebook.

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