Pistachio Raspberry Cake Recipe

This Pistachio Raspberry Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios with bursts of tart, juicy raspberries throughout each fluffy layer. The cake itself is moist and tender, offering vibrant green hues from the pistachios, while fresh raspberries add a beautiful pop of color and a touch of freshness. Whether for a celebration or just a treat-yourself day, this delightful cake will have everyone reaching for seconds!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple but essential ingredients to bring this Pistachio Raspberry Cake to life. Each component is carefully chosen to create a balance of flavors, colors, and textures that makes every bite unforgettable.

• Pistachios: Use shelled, unsalted pistachios for a sweet, nutty flavor and that classic green color.
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure so the cake holds together beautifully.
• Sugar: Balances the tartness of raspberries and lets the pistachio flavor shine.
• Baking powder: Ensures a light and fluffy crumb every time.
• Unsalted butter: Gives the cake richness and a supremely tender texture.
• Eggs: Bind everything together while adding moisture and strength.
• Whole milk: Moistens the batter for a perfectly soft bite.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances both nutty and fruity notes in the cake.
• Fresh raspberries: Add pockets of juicy tartness throughout; select firm, ripe berries for best results.
• Salt: Just a pinch brings out all the subtle flavors from the pistachios and raspberries.

How to Make Pistachio Raspberry Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and letting butter and eggs come to room temperature. Measure out the pistachios, and give them a quick pulse in the food processor until they’re finely ground but not turning into butter. Getting organized up front always sets you up for baking success!

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pistachios with all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisking these together ensures that every bite of cake offers the perfect balance of nutty and sweet flavors—plus a beautiful, even texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer, cream the unsalted butter with the remaining sugar until it’s light and whippy. This step creates air in your batter, contributing to that fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth crumb Pistachio Raspberry Cake is famous for.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Beat the eggs in one by one, followed by the vanilla extract. Then gently add the milk, mixing just until everything is blended. The batter will look luscious and smell amazing at this point!

Step 5: Fold In Raspberries

Carefully fold fresh raspberries into your batter, taking care not to crush them. As the cake bakes, these will turn into juicy jewels of tartness in every bite—a signature feature of this Pistachio Raspberry Cake.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, smooth the top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until golden and springy. Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Your kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly!

Step 7: Cool and Decorate

Once the cake is completely cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar or whip up a simple glaze. For a special touch, top with extra raspberries and a sprinkling of chopped pistachios for a cake that looks as good as it tastes.

How to Serve Pistachio Raspberry Cake

Garnishes

This cake shines brightest when topped with a handful of fresh raspberries and a scatter of chopped pistachios. For extra loveliness, consider a gentle dusting of powdered sugar or a glossy drizzle of raspberry glaze.

Side Dishes

Pistachio Raspberry Cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a brunch spread, serve it alongside fresh berries or a citrus salad to complement its vibrant flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

You can bake this cake as a single layer, a classic loaf, or even elegant mini cakes for individual servings. For a show-stopping occasion, layer it with whipped mascarpone or cream cheese frosting and more raspberries sandwiched between each tier.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Pistachio Raspberry Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If your kitchen is particularly warm, tuck it in the fridge to keep the raspberries fresh—just let it come back to room temp before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature and enjoy a taste of pistachio raspberry goodness whenever a craving strikes.

Reheating

To refresh a slice, pop it in the microwave for a few seconds or warm it gently in a low oven, just until it’s soft and aromatic again. Avoid overheating, as this could dry out the tender crumb and the delicate raspberries.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! You can use frozen raspberries, just add them to the batter straight from the freezer to prevent too much color bleeding and sogginess.

Do I need to peel the pistachios?

If your pistachios are already shelled and unsalted, no need to peel them. The thin skins add a hint of texture and gorgeous green color to the cake.

Can this cake be made gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of regular all-purpose flour for delicious results. The ground pistachios also add structure, so you won’t sacrifice texture.

What frosting pairs well with Pistachio Raspberry Cake?

A simple vanilla glaze, cream cheese frosting, or whipped mascarpone all make lovely companions to the nutty and fruity flavors in this cake.

How do I keep my raspberries from sinking to the bottom?

Toss your raspberries lightly in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps suspend them evenly throughout the cake for perfect raspberry-to-cake ratio in every bite.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you’ll give this Pistachio Raspberry Cake a try! It’s a treat that wins hearts with its stunning looks and vibrant flavors. One slice, and you’ll see why it’s become a cherished favorite in my own kitchen. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious, nutty, berry-filled crumb!