Introduction
Get ready to dive into pistachio paradise with this delightful Pistachio Cake topped with Cream Cheese Frosting! This nutty, creamy dream will have you coming back for more slices, perfect for any occasion or simply as a beautiful dessert to enjoy at home.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 1 cup shelled pistachios
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 45-55 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
Pistachio Magic
In a food processor, pulse pistachios until finely ground. Mix with flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Set your pistachio magic mix aside.
Creamy Base
In another bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract for that irresistible aroma.
Mix It Up
Gradually add the pistachio mix to your creamy base, alternating with milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until smooth.
Bake Time
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Frosting Finale
Beat together softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, beating until smooth and fluffy.
Decoration Delight
Once the cake is cool, lavishly spread cream cheese frosting on top. Sprinkle some extra crushed pistachios for a beautiful finish!
Enjoy this luscious sweep of pistachio and cream cheese delight at your next get-together or just because you deserve it! 🎉🥳
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a round cake pan and line it with parchment paper for easy cake removal.
2. Pistachio Magic
In a food processor, pulse pistachios until finely ground. Mix with flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Set your pistachio magic mix aside.
3. Creamy Base
In another bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract for that irresistible aroma.
4. Mix It Up
Gradually add the pistachio mix to your creamy base, alternating with milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until smooth.
5. Bake Time
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
6. Frosting Finale
Beat together softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, beating until smooth and fluffy.
7. Decoration Delight
Once the cake is cool, lavishly spread cream cheese frosting on top. Sprinkle some extra crushed pistachios for a beautiful finish!
Notes
Storage
The cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Flavor Variations
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a pinch of almond extract to the batter or using toasted pistachios for the topping.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect afternoon treat or dessert for gatherings. Enjoy!
Cook techniques
Cook Techniques
Prepping the Pistachios
Use a food processor to finely grind the shelled pistachios for a smooth texture in the cake batter.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy to create a light cake texture.
Egg Incorporation
Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next for optimal emulsion.
Alternating Dry and Wet Ingredients
When combining the pistachio mix with the wet ingredients, alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk. This prevents overmixing and keeps the cake tender.
Testing for Doneness
Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.
Making Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually incorporate powdered sugar for a fluffy, sweet frosting.
Decorating the Cake
Spread the cream cheese frosting generously on the cooled cake and add crushed pistachios on top for both flavor and visual appeal.
FAQ
Can I use roasted pistachios instead of raw?
Yes, roasted pistachios can add a deeper flavor; just ensure they are unsalted.
How can I make the cake gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that has xanthan gum for best results.
Can I substitute the cream cheese in the frosting?
You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different taste or diet needs.
How should I store the leftover cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen without frosting for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
Conclusion
Enjoy your Pistachio Cake!
Indulge in this delightful pistachio cake topped with cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion or just to treat yourself!
More Recipes Suggestions and Combination
Pistachio Muffins
Try making pistachio muffins with a similar batter for a quick breakfast treat.
Chocolate Pistachio Brownies
Combine the flavors of chocolate and pistachio in rich, fudgy brownies.
Pistachio Ice Cream
Craft a creamy pistachio ice cream to accompany your cake for a delightful dessert duo.
Pistachio Cookies
Bake soft pistachio cookies for a crunchy, sweet snack.
Pistachio Pie
Explore making a pistachio pie for a unique dessert option with a nutty flavor profile.
