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Elegant Pistachio Mascarpone Cake

Elegant Pistachio Mascarpone Cake

Elegant Pistachio Mascarpone Cake is a rich, creamy dessert combining the nutty essence of pistachios with the smooth texture of mascarpone cheese. This sophisticated cake features moist, light layers with a delicate crumb and luscious mascarpone frosting tinted soft green by fresh ground pistachios. Perfect for special occasions, it offers a balanced flavor profile that is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 8 to 10 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Batter

  • 1 cup ground pistachios (freshly ground)
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom

Mascarpone Frosting

  • 16 oz mascarpone cheese, chilled
  • 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, to adjust sweetness)

Garnishes

  • Chopped pistachios
  • Optional: edible rose petals or lemon zest for decoration

Instructions

  1. Preparing the Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your cake pans. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Fold in the ground pistachios, sifted all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend), baking powder, baking soda, salt, and optional cardamom. Mix gently until the batter is smooth and slightly dense; avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
  2. Baking the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow the cake layers to cool completely on wire racks before handling to prevent breakage.
  3. Preparing the Mascarpone Frosting: In a chilled bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth. Gradually add chilled heavy cream, continuing to beat until soft peaks form. Stir in vanilla extract and powdered sugar if using, to adjust sweetness. Keep the frosting refrigerated until assembly to maintain consistency.
  4. Assembling the Cake: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of mascarpone frosting evenly atop it. Place the second cake layer over the frosted layer and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Smooth the surface with an offset spatula or create soft swirls for an elegant handcrafted look.
  5. Finishing Touches: Sprinkle chopped pistachios on the top and sides of the cake for added texture and color. Optionally, decorate with edible rose petals or lemon zest. Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld and frosting set perfectly.

Notes

  • Use freshly ground pistachios for the best flavor and vibrant color; avoid stale pre-ground nuts.
  • Mix batter just until combined to maintain a tender, light crumb.
  • Keep mascarpone and heavy cream chilled and bowl cold for better frosting consistency.
  • Use room temperature eggs and butter for smooth, even batter blending and baking.
  • Allow cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
  • Lightly toast pistachios before grinding to deepen flavor without affecting moisture.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 to 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: International
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free flour blend)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of cake)
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 26 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg

Keywords: pistachio cake, mascarpone cake, nutty dessert, elegant cake, gluten-free cake option