Bring elegance and vibrant flavor to your dessert table with this Vivid Pistachio Raspberry Cake. Featuring two layers of lush pistachio sponge and filled with tangy raspberry jam and pistachio buttercream, this eye-catching cake delivers both visual impact and unforgettable taste.
Its distinct green crumb, jewel-toned raspberry center, and nutty finish make it perfect for birthdays, brunches, or any celebration. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying your hand at a layered cake for the first time, this recipe is surprisingly approachable and delivers bakery-level results.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
- 💚 Naturally green pistachio sponge (no food coloring needed)
- 🍓 Bright contrast between sweet, nutty, and tart flavors
- 🎂 Layers beautifully without needing professional tools
- 🧁 Buttercream infused with real pistachio cream
- 🍰 Stays moist for days and makes a beautiful centerpiece
Ingredients
🎂 Pistachio Cake Layers
- 250g unsalted butter, softened
- 240g golden caster sugar (or superfine sugar)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 150g plain flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- 100g pistachios, finely ground
🧈 Pistachio Buttercream
- 175g unsalted butter, softened
- 280g icing sugar, sifted
- 2 tbsp pistachio cream
- ½ tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
🍓 Filling & Topping
- 3 tbsp raspberry jam
- 250g fresh raspberries
- 2 tbsp chopped pistachios
- Fresh mint sprigs (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
🔥 Step 1: Prep Your Equipment
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 355°F. Grease and line two 20cm (8-inch) round cake tins with parchment paper. Set aside.
Tip: Use baking spray plus parchment to prevent sticking and ensure clean layers.
🧁 Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl (or stand mixer), beat softened butter and caster sugar together on medium-high for 3–5 minutes until pale, fluffy, and airy. Add the vanilla extract and mix again.
🥚 Step 3: Add Eggs One at a Time
Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The mixture may look slightly curdled after the first egg but will come together smoothly by the third or fourth.
🌰 Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the ground pistachios. Add this dry mix to the wet mixture in two parts, folding gently until just combined.
Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender and light.
🧁 Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared tins. Smooth the tops with a spatula and bake for 35 minutes, or until a skewer comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool in tins for 15 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
🟩 Step 6: Make Pistachio Buttercream
In a clean bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until creamy. Gradually add the sifted icing sugar and beat until fully combined. Add the pistachio cream, lemon juice, and salt. Beat again until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
Pistachio cream adds bold nutty flavor and richness—don’t skip it!
🎂 Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Once completely cooled, place one cake layer flat side up on your serving plate. Spread a thin layer of buttercream to act as a base for the jam. Spread 3 tbsp raspberry jam over the center and then pipe or spread half the buttercream in an even layer.
Place the second cake layer on top, flat side up, and gently press down. Use the remaining buttercream to frost the top of the cake. You can leave the sides exposed for a semi-naked look or frost completely for a more polished finish.
🍓 Step 8: Decorate
Top with fresh raspberries, chopped pistachios, and a few sprigs of fresh mint. For added texture and sparkle, sprinkle with powdered sugar just before serving.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate the finished cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving
- Individual slices freeze well when wrapped tightly and stored in freezer-safe containers
Final Thoughts
This Vivid Pistachio Raspberry Cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s an experience. The lush green sponge and bright raspberry layers offer a unique flavor combination that delights on every level. It’s the kind of cake that gets attention before the first bite—and keeps people coming back for seconds.