Pistachio Cake: A Decadent Dessert for Every Occasion
If youโre a fan of pistachios and rich, indulgent desserts, this pistachio cake is an absolute must-try. Packed with the nutty flavor of pistachios, complemented by a silky pistachio cream and topped with luscious chocolate decorations, itโs the perfect sweet treat to serve at any special gathering. Whether youโre celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply want to indulge in a beautiful homemade cake, this pistachio cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Pistachio Cake (Serves 10)
For the Sponge Cake:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pistachio flour | 100g |
| All-purpose flour | 250g |
| Sugar | 250g |
| Eggs | 3 |
| Pistachio paste | 60g |
| Whole milk | 140g |
| Vegetable oil | 100g |
| Baking powder | 16g |
For the Pistachio Cream Filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole milk | 500g |
| Cornstarch (corn flour) | 50g |
| Rice starch | 50g |
| Sugar | 200g |
| Pistachio paste | 100g |
| Dark chocolate | 60g |
For the Chocolate Sauce:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dark chocolate | 300g |
| Fresh cream | 250g |
| Glucose syrup | 50g |
For the Decoration:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Crushed pistachios | As needed |
| Dark chocolate | As needed |
| Whole pistachios | 30 |
Instructions for Making Pistachio Cake
1. Preparing the Sponge Cake:
Start by preheating your oven to 170ยฐC (340ยฐF) for static heat, or 150ยฐC (300ยฐF) for fan-assisted heat. Prepare a 23 cm (9-inch) round cake tin by greasing it lightly with butter or oil and lining it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the sugar and eggs. Using a whisk attachment or a handheld electric mixer, beat the eggs and sugar together at high speed for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes light, airy, and pale. The consistency should be thick enough to hold its shape when you lift the whisk.
Now, gradually fold in the pistachio paste. This should be done gently to avoid deflating the batter. While mixing, slowly add the vegetable oil in a thin stream, allowing it to emulsify into the batter.
Sift together the pistachio flour, all-purpose flour, and baking powder, and gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture. Be gentle during this process to keep the batter airy.
Once the batter is well-combined, pour it into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes (for static heat), or 40 minutes (for fan-assisted heat), or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the sponge cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This will make it easier to slice it into three layers.
2. Preparing the Pistachio Cream Filling:
While the sponge cake cools, itโs time to make the rich pistachio cream. In a saucepan, combine the whole milk, cornstarch, and rice starch, whisking continuously until there are no lumps. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a smooth, custard-like consistency.
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the sugar and pistachio paste. Continue whisking until the paste is completely dissolved and the cream is smooth. Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes before transferring it into the refrigerator to chill.
3. Preparing the Chocolate Sauce:
While the cream chills, prepare the chocolate sauce. In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark chocolate, fresh cream, and glucose syrup. Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler method) or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently until smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly.
4. Assembling the Cake:
Once the sponge cake has cooled completely, use a serrated knife to slice it into three even layers. Place the first layer on a serving platter and spread a generous layer of pistachio cream on top. Use a vegetable peeler to create chocolate shavings from the dark chocolate, and scatter about 30g of the shavings over the cream.
Carefully place the second layer of sponge on top of the first, and repeat the process by spreading the remaining pistachio cream and adding more chocolate shavings. Finish by placing the final layer of sponge on top.
5. Decorating the Cake:
Now, itโs time for the decoration. Transfer the assembled cake onto a cooling rack with a tray underneath to catch any drips. Drizzle the slightly cooled chocolate sauce over the top of the cake, allowing it to gently cascade down the sides.
Press the crushed pistachios onto the sides of the cake to create a textured border. For the final decorative touch, blanch the whole pistachios by boiling them in water for about 30 seconds. After draining and peeling them, use them to create a beautiful pattern on the top of the cake. An easy and elegant way to do this is by arranging them in a spiral pattern or a simple row across the center.
Use a vegetable peeler once again to create delicate chocolate curls, and scatter them over the top of the cake. These chocolate curls will add a sophisticated, finishing touch.
6. Chilling and Serving:
Place the finished cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the chocolate to set and the flavors to meld together. Once chilled, slice the cake into 10 even portions and serve. Enjoy the rich, nutty flavor of pistachio with the smooth, velvety cream and the delightful crunch of pistachio decorations.
Tips and Tricks:
- For the best flavor, use high-quality pistachio paste and dark chocolate.
- The pistachio cream can be made ahead of time and refrigerated overnight for convenience.
- If you prefer a more decadent version, you can use a layer of ganache or whipped cream on top of the pistachio cream filling.
- Make sure the cake layers are completely cooled before assembling, as this will prevent the cream from melting.
This pistachio cake combines the rich flavor of pistachios, the smoothness of a delicate cream filling, and the bittersweet contrast of dark chocolate. Whether for a special celebration or an indulgent treat, this cake will surely impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Enjoy your homemade pistachio cake!
This recipe is perfect for those who love pistachios and want to enjoy a decadent dessert. It is ideal for birthdays, holidays, or just a special treat for yourself. Make sure to share your creations with your friends and family, and be prepared for rave reviews!
