Description
This Delicious Pistachio Mascarpone Layer Cake is a beautifully moist and flavorful dessert perfect for impressing guests. Featuring delicate layers of pistachio-infused cake combined with a creamy mascarpone frosting, this recipe provides an elegant balance of nutty richness and smooth texture, ideal for celebrations and special occasions.
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- a pinch of salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup finely chopped pistachios
Mascarpone Frosting
- 1 1/2 cups mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Additional chopped pistachios for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the unsalted butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, indicating proper aeration for a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to maintain an emulsion, then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with whole milk. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Fold in Pistachios: Gently fold the finely chopped pistachios into the batter to evenly distribute the nutty flavor and texture.
- Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare Mascarpone Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat mascarpone cheese, heavy whipping cream, and powdered sugar until soft peaks form, then add vanilla extract and mix until combined, creating a rich and creamy frosting.
- Assemble Cake Layers: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate, spread a generous amount of mascarpone frosting on top, repeat with the second layer, and place the final layer on top.
- Frost and Decorate Cake: Use the remaining frosting to coat the top and sides of the cake evenly. Finish by sprinkling additional chopped pistachios over the cake for an attractive, nutty garnish.
Notes
- Ensure cakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- Use room temperature eggs and butter for better batter consistency.
- For extra pistachio flavor, lightly toast the chopped pistachios before folding them into the batter and for decoration.
- The cake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Bring the cake to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.