Description
Pistachio Vanilla Cake is a moist and elegant layered cake featuring the rich nutty flavor of pistachios paired with sweet vanilla. Finished with a creamy vanilla buttercream frosting and garnished with chopped pistachios, this dessert is perfect for celebrations, holidays, or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup shelled pistachios, finely ground
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- For the Vanilla Buttercream:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, ground pistachios, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Fold in sour cream until just combined.
- Divide batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 28-32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- For the buttercream, beat butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until smooth and fluffy.
- Spread frosting between cake layers and over the top and sides.
- Garnish with chopped pistachios.
- Slice and serve.
Notes
- Use unsalted pistachios for the best flavor balance.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain a tender crumb.
- Toast pistachios lightly before grinding for a deeper flavor.
- The cake can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.
- Store covered for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American