Pistachio Raspberry Cake

This Pistachio Raspberry Cake is a delightful treat that combines moist pistachio sponge with creamy pistachio buttercream and tangy raspberry jam. Perfect for birthdays, tea parties, or any celebration, this cake stands out with its vibrant colors and unique flavor combination. The layers of cake are not only visually stunning but also incredibly tasty, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cake
• For the Buttercream
• For Assembly
• How to Make Pistachio Raspberry Cake
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
• Step 3: Add Eggs
• Step 4: Prepare Pistachios
• Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
• Step 6: Bake the Cakes
• Step 7: Make Buttercream
• Step 8: Assemble the Cake
• Step 9: Decorate
• How to Serve Pistachio Raspberry Cake
• For a Festive Occasion
• As a Dessert Table Centerpiece
• For Afternoon Tea
• How to Perfect Pistachio Raspberry Cake
• Best Side Dishes for Pistachio Raspberry Cake
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pistachio Raspberry Cake
• Reheating Pistachio Raspberry Cake
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I substitute other nuts in the Pistachio Raspberry Cake?
• How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
• What is the best way to serve Pistachio Raspberry Cake?
• Can I use frozen raspberries in this recipe?
• How long does it take to bake a Pistachio Raspberry Cake?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of pistachios and raspberries offers a delightful taste that’s both nutty and fruity.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: This cake looks as good as it tastes, bringing color to your dessert table.
• Versatile Occasion Fit: Ideal for celebrations, afternoon tea, or a sweet indulgence at home.
• Simple to Follow: The step-by-step instructions make it easy for bakers of all levels to create this masterpiece.
• Customizable Decor: You can add your own twist with different toppings or fillings if desired.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Pistachio Raspberry Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Food processor or blender
• 2 x 20cm loose-based round cake tins
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Piping bag
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar quick and effortless, ensuring a light texture in the cake.
• Food processor or blender: Helps achieve a fine pistachio crumb quickly, which is essential for the cake’s flavor.
• Piping bag: Allows for precise application of buttercream, creating a beautiful finish on your cake.

Ingredients

This Pistachio Raspberry Cake features layers of moist pistachio sponge sandwiched with sweet pistachio buttercream and fruity raspberry jam, finished with juicy raspberries, chopped pistachios and sprigs of fresh mint. Yum!

For the Cake

• 250 g unsalted butter, softened (16 tablespoons (2 sticks + 1 1/2 tablespoons))
• 240 g golden caster sugar, also known as superfine sugar in America (1 cup + 2 tbsp)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 150 g plain flour (1 cup & 1/4 scant cup)
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp fine sea salt
• 100 g shelled pistachios (3/4 cup)

For the Buttercream

• 175 g softened unsalted butter (13 tablespoons + 1 tsp)
• 280 g sifted icing sugar (2 + 1/3 cups)
• 2 tbsp smooth pistachio cream
• ½ tsp fine sea salt
• 1 tsp lemon juice

For Assembly

• 3 tbsp raspberry jam
• 250 g roughly 2 cups fresh raspberries
• 2 tbsp roughly chopped pistachios
• Sprigs of fresh mint

How to Make Pistachio Raspberry Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 160°C Fan/180°C conventional oven/355°F. Grease and line two 20cm loose-based round cake tins with non-stick baking paper. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl with a handheld mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Cream together the softened butter and golden caster sugar for about 3-5 minutes until lighter in color and completely smooth.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix again until combined.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time:
1. Whisk each egg into the batter until smooth before adding the next.

Step 4: Prepare Pistachios

In a food processor or blender:
1. Grind the shelled pistachios into a fine crumb similar to ground almonds.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift in the plain flour and baking powder:
1. Add fine sea salt and ground pistachios.
2. Fold gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter equally between the prepared tins:
1. Smooth over the surface using a spatula.
2. Bake for about 35 minutes until risen; a skewer inserted should come out clean.
3. Cool in tins for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make Buttercream

In another mixing bowl:
1. Cream together softened unsalted butter and sifted icing sugar until pale.
2. Add smooth pistachio cream, salt, and lemon juice; beat again until fluffy.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Once cooled:
1. Place one cake layer on a plate.
2. Pipe half of the buttercream on top evenly.
3. Spread raspberry jam carefully on top without reaching edges.
4. Place second layer on top followed by remaining buttercream.

Step 9: Decorate

Finish off your Pistachio Raspberry Cake by decorating it with fresh raspberries, sprigs of mint, and chopped pistachios. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pistachio Raspberry Cake

This delightful Pistachio Raspberry Cake is perfect for various occasions. Below are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

For a Festive Occasion

• With Sparkling Wine: Pair the cake with a glass of sparkling wine for an elegant touch.
• On a Decorative Platter: Arrange slices on a beautiful platter with fresh mint for a stunning presentation.

As a Dessert Table Centerpiece

• Accompanied by Fresh Fruits: Serve alongside seasonal fruits like strawberries or blueberries for added color and flavor.
• With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream complements the cake’s richness and adds lightness.

For Afternoon Tea

• With Tea or Coffee: Enjoy slices of this cake with your favorite tea or coffee blend during afternoon tea.
• As Part of a Dessert Selection: Combine with other small desserts, such as macarons or mini pastries, for variety.

How to Perfect Pistachio Raspberry Cake

To make this Pistachio Raspberry Cake truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh eggs and high-quality butter for the best flavor and texture.
• Grind Pistachios Properly: Ensure pistachios are ground to a fine crumb for even distribution in the batter.
• Cool Cakes Completely: Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the buttercream.
• Pipe Buttercream Evenly: Use a piping bag for an even layer of buttercream, ensuring a professional finish.
• Decorate Just Before Serving: Add fresh raspberries and mint just before serving to keep them vibrant and fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Pistachio Raspberry Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Pistachio Raspberry Cake can enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent suggestions:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to the dessert.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the cake’s texture.
3. Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle chocolate ganache over the cake slices for an indulgent touch.
4. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy counterpart that complements the cake.
5. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet refreshes the palate after enjoying the rich cake.
6. Nutty Biscotti: Offer biscotti on the side for added crunch and flavor that pairs well with tea or coffee.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Pistachio Raspberry Cake, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to prevent for the best results.

• Neglecting to measure ingredients accurately – Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precise measurements for the best cake texture.
• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to tough cake; just combine until ingredients are evenly mixed.
• Using cold eggs – Cold eggs can affect how well they incorporate; let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before use.
• Skipping the cooling time – Allowing the cakes to cool properly in their tins is essential for a moist texture and easier assembly.
• Not adjusting baking time based on oven variations – Every oven is different. Check your cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover Pistachio Raspberry Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• item Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to maintain its flavor.

Freezing Pistachio Raspberry Cake

• item Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• item Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Pistachio Raspberry Cake

• Oven – Preheat to 160°C (320°F) and warm for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop – Place slices in a pan over low heat, covered, for about 5-7 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding the Pistachio Raspberry Cake that may help you with your baking journey.

Can I substitute other nuts in the Pistachio Raspberry Cake?

Yes, you can use almonds or walnuts instead of pistachios. However, this will change the flavor profile slightly.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free Pistachio Raspberry Cake, substitute plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What is the best way to serve Pistachio Raspberry Cake?

Serve it chilled or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Can I use frozen raspberries in this recipe?

While fresh raspberries are preferred for decoration, you can use frozen ones for filling. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before using.

How long does it take to bake a Pistachio Raspberry Cake?

The cake typically takes around 35 minutes to bake, but always check with a skewer to ensure it’s cooked through.

Final Thoughts

This delightful Pistachio Raspberry Cake is perfect for any occasion, offering a beautiful blend of flavors and textures. Feel free to customize it by adding different fruits or nuts as desired. Enjoy making this scrumptious treat!