This Traditional Pistachio Delight is the perfect blend of nutty richness and sweet simplicity. With its delicate crumb and vibrant pistachio flavors, it's a dessert that's sure to impress both family and friends alike.
The backbone of our cake is unsalted butter, which gives it a rich, creamy texture. We use granulated sugar for sweetness, perfectly balancing the nutty notes. Eggs add structure and moisture, while vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile. The whole milk ensures a tender crumb, and all-purpose flour provides the necessary structure. Baking powder acts as our leavening agent, and a touch of salt intensifies the flavors. The star of the show, finely ground pistachios, infuses the cake with its unique taste, and shelled pistachios make for a beautiful garnish.
This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more sophisticated touch, try serving it with a drizzle of honey or a side of fresh berries.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease your 9-inch round cake pan thoroughly to ensure an easy release later. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy — this may take a few minutes with an electric mixer.
Add the eggs to the creamed mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to incorporate them fully and keep the batter smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract, which will subtly enhance the pistachio flavor.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture; this method helps maintain the cake's lightness. Once mixed, fold in the ground pistachios gently with a spatula until they're evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, using a spatula to smooth the top. This ensures an even rise during baking. Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, sprinkle the chopped pistachios over the top of the cake for a delightful crunch and an extra pop of color.