Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Oh, sweet friends, there’s nothing quite like the joy of bringing a truly special dessert to the table, and this Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love is precisely that kind of magic. Imagine a cake so tender, so fragrant with the delicate, nutty essence of pistachios, and layered with the silkiest cream filling. It’s a delightful centerpiece, a sweet sigh of contentment, and a recipe that truly embodies what homemade baking is all about.

I still remember those sun-drenched afternoons in Grandma’s kitchen, the scent of vanilla and sugar always in the air. We’d be experimenting with new flavors, sometimes a triumphant success, other times a delightful disaster! It was in those moments, surrounded by love and laughter, that I truly learned the heart of baking – it’s about the journey and the memories you create.

This recipe is incredibly approachable, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and those just starting their sweet adventures. It’s also wonderfully versatile, making it ideal for family gatherings or a quiet treat for yourself. My top tip for any cake, especially this one, is to always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature; it makes for the most beautifully incorporated batter!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Crafting this delightful cake calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that transform into something extraordinary. We’re talking about the rich depth of finely ground pistachios, the creamy tang of cream cheese for the frosting, and that unmistakable hint of vanilla that ties everything together. These ingredients combine to create the truly Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love. You’ll find the full list of ingredients and precise measurements in the recipe card below.

How to Make Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love

Creating this beautiful cake involves a few loving steps, much like building a sweet memory. First, we’ll prepare the tender pistachio cake layers, ensuring they bake up light and airy. Next, we whip up the dreamy pistachio cream filling, followed by the irresistible cream cheese frosting. Finally, we bring all these delightful elements together to assemble the cake, making the Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love a reality.

Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love

A show-stopping dessert featuring tender pistachio cake layers, a luxurious pistachio cream filling, and a smooth cream cheese frosting, guaranteed to impress every guest with its vibrant flavor and stunning presentation.

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Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 12 slices

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Modern American

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Pistachio Cake Layers

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (270g)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (300g)
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (226g), softened
• 4 large eggs room temperature
• 1 cup whole milk (240ml), room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp pistachio extract or 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 1/2 cup finely ground unsalted pistachios (60g), blanched and peeled for best color (optional)
• 2-3 drops green gel food coloring optional, for vibrant color

For the Pistachio Cream Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese (226g), softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (60g)
• 1 cup heavy cream (240ml), very cold
• 1/4 cup pistachio butter/paste (60g), or finely ground pistachios + 1 tbsp neutral oil
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter (226g), softened
• 8 oz cream cheese (226g), softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar (480g), sifted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-4 tbsp heavy cream if needed for consistency
• Pinch salt

For Garnish

• 1/4 cup chopped unsalted pistachios (30g)

Equipment

• Two 8-inch round cake pans
• Parchment Paper
• Large mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (stand or hand-held)
• Rubber spatulas
• Wire Rack
• Saucepan (small, for blanching pistachios if not peeled)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Offset Spatula or Palette Knife
• Piping bag with a large round tip (optional, for dam)

Method

 

Prepare the Pistachio Cake Layers

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In another large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
5. In a separate small bowl, combine the whole milk, vanilla extract, pistachio extract, and green food coloring (if using).
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the milk mixture in two additions, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
7. Gently fold in the finely ground pistachios.
8. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. This is crucial for assembly, ensure they are fully cooled.

Make the Pistachio Cream Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Stir in the pistachio butter/paste (or ground pistachios and oil), vanilla extract, and pinch of salt until well combined.
3. In a separate cold bowl, whip the very cold heavy cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until no streaks remain. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and lump-free (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated, then increasing to medium speed until smooth. Scrape down the bowl frequently.
3. Beat in the vanilla extract and pinch of salt. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream 1 tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cake layers are completely cooled, use a serrated knife to level the tops if necessary, creating flat surfaces.
2. Place one cake layer on your desired serving plate or cake stand. If using, pipe a dam of cream cheese frosting around the edge of the first cake layer. This will prevent the filling from oozing out.
3. Evenly spread the chilled Pistachio Cream Filling inside the frosting dam.
4. Carefully place the second cake layer on top, pressing down gently to secure it.
5. Apply a thin layer of cream cheese frosting all over the cake (top and sides) to create a crumb coat. This traps any loose crumbs. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to set the crumb coat.
6. Once chilled, apply the remaining cream cheese frosting to the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it with an offset spatula or palette knife.
7. Garnish the top of the cake with chopped pistachios. You can also press some onto the sides if desired.
8. Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving to allow the filling and frosting to set properly. Enjoy!

Notes

For the best flavor and texture, ensure all cold ingredients (butter, eggs, milk, cream cheese) are at room temperature before starting the cake and frosting. If your pistachios aren’t already blanched and peeled, you can blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then drain and rub them in a clean towel to remove skins before grinding. This enhances the green color of the ground pistachios. Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Pro Tips for Making This Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love

Having spent countless hours in the kitchen, I’ve gathered a few little tricks that ensure this amazing cake turns out perfectly every time.

My Secret Trick: I always lightly toast my pistachios before grinding them for the cake layers and the cream filling. It truly deepens their nutty flavor, making the pistachio essence pop even more in this Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love.

When you’re adding the green gel food coloring, remember a little goes a long way! Start with just a tiny drop and gradually add more until you reach your desired pastel pistachio hue. We want a hint of green, not an electric shock!

For the creamiest frosting, make sure your cream cheese and butter are wonderfully soft. It helps everything blend smoothly without any lumps, giving you that velvety texture we adore.

Don’t rush the cooling process! Allowing your cake layers to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting prevents any melting or sliding, ensuring your finished cake looks as beautiful as it tastes.

Fun Variations for Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love

One of my favorite things about baking is how easily you can make a recipe your own, and this delicious dessert is no exception. Here are a few ways to add your unique touch to this Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love:

• Citrus Zest Delight: For a brighter, more zesty flavor, try adding a tablespoon of finely grated orange or lemon zest to the cake batter. My sister always asks me to swirl in a little lemon curd between the layers for an extra tangy surprise!
• Berry Bliss: Pair the delicate pistachio flavor with fresh berries. You could add a layer of fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries on top of the pistachio cream filling. A friend loves when I top it with extra whipped cream and a sprinkle of berries.
• Chocolate Drizzle: If you’re a chocolate lover, a delicate drizzle of melted white chocolate over the finished cake, or even between the layers, adds an extra layer of indulgence that beautifully complements the pistachio.

What to Serve With Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love

This cake is an absolute star on its own, but a few thoughtful pairings can elevate the experience even further! I love serving a slice of this Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love with a simple scoop of vanilla bean ice cream; the cool creaminess is just divine.

For a warm and comforting treat, a fragrant cup of Earl Grey tea or a rich, dark roast coffee makes a wonderful companion. My mom always pairs her slice with a frothy cappuccino. If you’re looking for a quick and elegant touch, a scattering of fresh berries, like raspberries or blueberries, adds a lovely pop of color and freshness.

How to Store Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love

Ensuring your delightful cake stays fresh and delicious is key, so here are my favorite tips for storing this Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love.

Fridge Storage

Because of its luscious cream cheese frosting and rich pistachio cream filling, this cake needs to be stored in the refrigerator. Place any leftover slices or the entire cake in an airtight container. This keeps it wonderfully moist and prevents it from absorbing other fridge odors. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

Freezer Tips

If you want to enjoy this treat even longer, you can freeze individual slices! Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to a month. I like storing cakes in airtight containers to keep them moist and tasting fresh when thawed.

Serving Leftovers

When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen slice, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter for about an hour. For the best texture, allow refrigerated slices to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Benefits

While it’s undeniably a treat, this delightful dessert also brings a few wholesome notes to the table. Pistachios, a star ingredient in this Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love, are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, contributing to a satisfying and nourishing bite. It’s a testament to how we can combine indulgence with simple, quality ingredients for a dessert that truly satisfies.

FAQs

Faq 1

Can I make the cake layers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers up to two days in advance. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature until you’re ready to assemble your Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love.

Faq 2

What can I use if I don’t have pistachio extract?
If you don’t have pistachio extract, you can omit it. The finely ground pistachios and pistachio butter/paste will still give this Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love a lovely flavor. You could add a touch more vanilla extract if desired.

Faq 3

Why did my cake layers sink in the middle?
Cake layers often sink if the oven door is opened too early, if they are underbaked, or if the leavening agent isn’t fresh. Ensure your oven temperature is accurate and bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean for a perfect Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love.

Faq 4

Can I use a different type of frosting?
While the cream cheese frosting is divine, you certainly can. A classic buttercream or even a whipped white chocolate ganache would also be lovely on this Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love, offering a slightly different profile.

Conclusion

Baking, for me, is an act of pure love – a way to gather warmth, stir in joy, and serve up happiness, one sweet slice at a time. This Luscious Pistachio Cream Cake Everyone Will Love truly embodies that spirit. From its tender, nutty layers to its silken cream filling and dreamy frosting, it’s a dessert designed to create cherished memories. So, I wholeheartedly encourage you to tie on your apron, embrace the sweet adventure, and bring this magical cake to life in your own kitchen. You’ll be so glad you did!