Heavenly Pistachio Raspberry Dream Cake

Introduction:

Indulge in the exquisite layers of this Heavenly Pistachio Raspberry Dream Cake—a delightful blend of nutty pistachio sponge cake, luscious raspberry gelée, creamy vanilla frosting, and a stunning mirror glaze. This cake is perfect for special occasions or simply to treat yourself to a gourmet dessert experience.

Ingredients

For the Pistachio Sponge Cake:

• 1 cup shelled pistachios, finely ground
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled

For the Raspberry Gelée:

• 2 cups fresh raspberries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp gelatin powder

For the Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1 lb cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Mirror Glaze:

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tbsp gelatin powder
• 1/2 cup condensed milk
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• Green food coloring

Garnishes:

• Fresh raspberries
• Shelled pistachios
• Edible gold leaf (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottoms of two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
2. Make the Pistachio Sponge Cake:
   • In a bowl, combine the ground pistachios, flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • In another bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until pale and doubled in size.
   • Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, then fold in the melted butter.
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.
3. Prepare the Raspberry Gelée:
   • Blend raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth. Strain to remove seeds.
   • Heat the purée in a saucepan and stir in gelatin until dissolved. Cool slightly and spread over one cooled cake layer. Chill until set.
4. Make the Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting:
   • Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fluffy.
   • Spread evenly over the set raspberry gelée layer.
5. Prepare the Mirror Glaze:
   • Mix sugar, water, and gelatin in a saucepan and heat until dissolved. Add condensed milk, pour over white chocolate chips, and stir until smooth. Mix in green food coloring. Let cool slightly, then pour over the frosted cake.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Decorate with fresh raspberries, pistachios, and edible gold leaf if desired. Chill until the glaze is set before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 1 hour
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Calories per Serving: 640 kcal

Variations

• For a Different Flavor: Substitute pistachios with almonds or hazelnuts in the sponge cake.
• Fruit Gelée: Use other fruits like blueberries or raspberries if desired.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the cake refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: The cake is best served cold; however, you can let it come to room temperature before serving if preferred.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen raspberries for the gelée? Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them before using.
2. What can I use instead of white chocolate chips for the mirror glaze? You can use milk or dark chocolate if you prefer.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, the cake can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
4. Can I use a different type of flour? All-purpose flour is recommended, but you can use gluten-free flour if needed.
5. How can I make the cake gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
6. Is the mirror glaze necessary? The mirror glaze adds a beautiful finish, but the cake can be served with just the frosting if preferred.
7. Can I freeze the cake? Yes, the cake can be frozen without the glaze. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
8. What should I do if my cake layers are uneven? Trim the layers to make them level before assembling.
9. How do I prevent the gelée from bleeding into the frosting? Ensure the gelée is fully set before adding the frosting.
10. Can I use pre-made frosting? Homemade frosting is recommended for best flavor, but store-bought frosting can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

The Heavenly Pistachio Raspberry Dream Cake combines the delicate flavors of pistachio and raspberry with a creamy vanilla frosting and a stunning mirror glaze. This sophisticated dessert is perfect for special occasions or a show-stopping treat that will impress anyone. Enjoy every decadent bite of this dream cake!

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