If you’re searching for a showstopper dessert that blends irresistible flavors and eye-catching beauty, look no further than this Pistachio Raspberry Cake. The nutty earthiness of pistachios and the vibrant tang of raspberries are layered together between a fluffy sponge, silky pistachio buttercream, and shimmering raspberry jam. Each bite celebrates the perfect pairing of richness and fruitiness, making this cake a standout for holidays, birthdays, or a special afternoon tea.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pistachio Raspberry Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Pistachio Raspberry Cake is in its thoughtfully chosen ingredients—each one elevates the flavors, texture, and color of the final creation. With straightforward pantry staples and a few special additions, you’ll have everything you need for a bakery-worthy result.

Unsalted butter: For a rich, tender crumb and a creamy buttercream with just the right melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Golden caster sugar: Adds a gentle, caramel-like sweetness that gives the cake its warm, golden hue.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the nutty and fruity undertones, tying all flavors together.
Eggs: These provide essential structure and create a moist, airy crumb in the cake layers.
Plain flour: The backbone of the sponge, delivering just the right amount of softness.
Baking powder: Ensures the cakes rise beautifully and evenly for perfect stacking.
Fine sea salt: A tiny touch that sharpens the sweetness and brings out nutty notes.
Shelled pistachios: The star of the show—grind them for a wonderfully green color and a buttery, nutty flavor.
Softened unsalted butter (for buttercream): Forms the base of your frosting, making it dreamy smooth and spreadable.
Sifted icing sugar: Gives the buttercream its sweetness and signature fluffiness.
Smooth pistachio cream: Pumps up that pistachio punch and creates a silky, nutty frosting.
Lemon juice: Brightens the buttercream and lifts the entire cake with a delicate tang.
Raspberry jam: For a layer of tart, fruity sparkle that cuts through the richness of the butter and nuts.
Fresh raspberries: Bring jewel-like beauty and bursts of tartness with every bite.
Chopped pistachios: For crunch and extra color, these are sprinkled over the top as a finishing touch.
Sprigs of fresh mint: A chef’s flourish that adds freshness and visual appeal to your Pistachio Raspberry Cake.

How to Make

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Cake Tins

Begin by preheating your oven to 160°C (fan) or 180°C (conventional), which is about 355°F. This ensures your cake bakes evenly. Grease and line two 20cm (8-inch) loose-based round cake tins with non-stick baking paper—the extra effort makes the cake release like a dream, keeping the layers flawless for stacking.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and golden caster sugar. Use a handheld or stand mixer to beat them until they look pale and mousse-like, about three to five minutes. Add in the vanilla extract, then beat in the eggs one by one, mixing thoroughly after each. Next, grind your shelled pistachios in a food processor until you have a sandy crumb. Sift together the plain flour, baking powder, and salt, and gently fold those into the wet mix along with your ground pistachios—the batter should look light and flecked with beautiful green!

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between your tins, using the back of a spoon to smooth the tops. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and the cakes spring back to the touch. Let the cakes cool in their tins for about 15 minutes, then transfer them carefully to a wire rack to cool completely—cooling is key for easy assembly later!

Step 4: Prepare the Buttercream

While your cakes cool, make the pistachio buttercream. Cream together the softened butter and sifted icing sugar until the mixture is fluffy and lighter in color. Add the pistachio cream, salt, and a splash of lemon juice, whipping until smooth and perfectly balanced. Taste and add more lemon if you want a brighter flavor—it’s all about your preference!

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Once your cakes are cool, set one cake on your serving plate. Pipe or spread half the pistachio buttercream on top, then spoon raspberry jam over the cream, keeping it in a neat layer so it doesn’t spill. Gently place the second cake layer on top and cover it with the rest of the buttercream, swooping it into soft peaks for a pretty, rustic finish.

Step 6: Decorate the Cake

To decorate, scatter the top with fresh raspberries, a generous handful of chopped pistachios, and tuck in a few mint sprigs. This not only makes your Pistachio Raspberry Cake look festive but also brings out even more flavor and texture in every slice.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Slice up your gorgeous cake and serve right away. Each bite delivers that uniquely moist pistachio sponge, sweet-tangy raspberry jam, and luscious buttercream—a celebration on a plate. Watch your guests go back for seconds!

How to Serve

Garnishes

A Pistachio Raspberry Cake looks stunning with just a handful of fresh raspberries, vivid green pistachios, and a few delicate mint leaves. For an extra pop, dust the top with a little icing sugar right before serving—it makes the vibrant colors shine even more.

Side Dishes

Pair this cake with lightly sweetened whipped cream, or serve with a scoop of vanilla gelato if you want to take things up a notch. For afternoon tea, a strong, slightly floral black tea or a cup of coffee will beautifully complement the nuttiness and fruit in every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual slices with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a Mediterranean twist, or turn your Pistachio Raspberry Cake into a showpiece by layering the components as a trifle in glass jars—perfect for parties or gifting friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Pistachio Raspberry Cake well-wrapped or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days—just make sure it’s not kept somewhere too warm. If your house is toasty, pop it in the fridge for extra freshness, then let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully! Freeze whole, undecorated cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, or freeze cut slices separated by parchment paper. When ready, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and bring to room temperature before frosting and serving.

Reheating

While this cake is best enjoyed at room temperature without reheating, if you’d like to revive a slice, warm it gently in the microwave for about 10 seconds—just enough to soften the crumb and release the aromatic pistachio fragrance (avoid overdoing it, as the buttercream may melt).

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen raspberries can be a fantastic substitute when fresh aren’t in season. Let them thaw on paper towels and pat dry to avoid excess moisture on your cake.

What is pistachio cream, and where can I find it?

Pistachio cream is a smooth, sweet nut spread made from ground pistachios—look for it near nut butters in gourmet or Mediterranean markets. If you can’t find it, blend shelled pistachios with a little honey or agave for a quick homemade alternative.

Can I make this Pistachio Raspberry Cake in advance?

Yes! You can bake the cakes a day ahead and store them tightly wrapped. Wait to assemble and decorate until closer to serving so all the textures stay just right.

How do I keep the cake layers moist?

The secret is not to overbake—pull the cakes out as soon as a toothpick comes out clean. You can also brush the cooled layers with a simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water) if you want extra assurance of moisture.

What can I use instead of golden caster sugar?

Regular white caster sugar or superfine sugar works well if you don’t have golden caster sugar. The golden variety just adds a subtle caramel note and warm color to the sponge.

Final Thoughts

If you love vibrant flavors and showstopping bakes, the Pistachio Raspberry Cake is an absolute must-try. It’s a labor of love that’s always worth the smiles it brings—so gather your ingredients, invite your favorite people, and get ready to enjoy a slice of something truly special.