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Pistachio Cake with Vanilla Cream Cheese Icing

A delightful Pistachio Cake layered with luscious vanilla cream cheese icing, perfect for celebrations or cozy gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Baking, Dessert
Cuisine: American, European
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cake
  • 100 g unsalted pistachios (de-shelled) Adds a creamy texture and color.
  • 200 g caster sugar For sweetness.
  • 200 g margarine Creates a rich, moist texture.
  • 150 g self-raising flour Ensures a fluffy cake.
  • 1 tsp baking powder Helps the cake rise.
  • 4 pieces eggs Adds richness.
  • 2 tbsp milk Adds moisture.
For the icing
  • 200 g full-fat cream cheese For a smooth and creamy icing.
  • 130 g icing sugar Offers sweetness.
  • ⅛ tsp vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
For topping
  • 2 tbsp pistachios (ground) Adds texture and crunch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 170ºC (fan-assisted) or 190°C (non-fan). Line two 8-inch loose-bottomed sandwich tins with parchment paper.
  2. In a food processor, blitz 100g of unsalted pistachios until they reach a fine consistency.
  3. In a mixing bowl, cream together 200g caster sugar and 200g margarine until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer.
  4. Add the blitzed pistachios into the creamed mixture. Combine 150g self-raising flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 4 eggs, and 2 tbsp milk. Mix until just combined.
Baking
  1. Divide the mixture evenly between the two prepared tins and smooth the tops. Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown and a cocktail stick comes out clean.
  2. Allow the cakes to cool in the tins for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Icing and Assembly
  1. Prepare the icing by mixing 200g cream cheese, 130g icing sugar, and ⅛ tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Turn one of the cakes upside down for serving. Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture onto the first cake and spread evenly.
  3. Place the second cake on top, the correct way up, and spread the remaining icing over the top.
  4. Blitz 2 tbsp pistachios until coarse and sprinkle over the top for garnish.

Notes

Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results. Consider adding lemon zest to the icing for a zesty twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.