Buttery Pistachio Gooey Butter Cake

Buttery Pistachio Gooey Butter Cake is an indulgent twist on a classic dessert that combines the rich, gooey texture of butter cake with the distinct, nutty flavor of pistachios. Originating from St. Louis, Missouri, gooey butter cake is beloved for its dense, chewy bottom layer and creamy, custard-like top. This recipe takes it up a notch by incorporating crushed pistachios, giving each bite a delightful crunch and an earthy, nutty taste that complements the buttery, sugary goodness of the cake. Topped with a cloud of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios, this cake is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional gooey butter cake or you’re looking for a unique, decadent dessert to impress guests, this Buttery Pistachio Gooey Butter Cake will be an instant favorite. It’s perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply when you want a treat that’s a bit more luxurious than your typical cake. The balance of sweetness, buttery richness, and pistachio flavor creates a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Buttery Pistachio Gooey Butter Cake offers layers of texture and flavor that elevate it from a standard dessert to a gourmet treat. The base layer is a buttery, slightly chewy crust, while the top layer is gooey and custard-like, creating an irresistibly rich texture. The addition of pistachios not only adds a pop of color but also brings a unique nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cake. Plus, this recipe is straightforward and requires no special baking skills, making it perfect for bakers of all levels. Once you try this pistachio-infused version, you’ll understand why gooey butter cake is such a beloved classic.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour, 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Serving Size: 1 slice

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 30g

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup (60g) pistachios, finely ground

For the Gooey Butter Filling

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (60g) pistachio paste (or ground pistachios)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, enhances pistachio flavor)
• 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Topping

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and finely ground pistachios. Stir to mix the ingredients evenly.
3. Add Melted Butter: Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture forms a crumbly dough.
4. Press the Crust: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to flatten it into an even layer.
5. Bake: Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Gooey Butter Filling

1. Beat Cream Cheese and Pistachio Paste: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and pistachio paste (or ground pistachios) until smooth and creamy. This step ensures that the filling will have a uniform pistachio flavor.
2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. Then add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and almond extract, if using.
3. Add Powdered Sugar and Butter: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Then, pour in the melted butter and continue mixing until fully combined and creamy.
4. Pour Over Crust: Pour the filling over the partially baked crust, spreading it evenly to the edges of the pan.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and slightly golden but the center still looks gooey. Avoid overbaking, as you want the center to remain soft and gooey.
2. Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. The cake will continue to set as it cools.

Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream Topping

1. Whip Cream: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
2. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue beating until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat, as it can turn the cream grainy.
3. Spread on Cake: Once the cake has cooled, spread a thick layer of whipped cream on top.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with Pistachios: Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top of the whipped cream for extra texture and a pop of color.
2. Slice and Serve: Cut the cake into squares or slices and enjoy! Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Ingredient Background

The ingredients in this Buttery Pistachio Gooey Butter Cake work together to create a rich, layered dessert. The flour, butter, and ground pistachios in the crust provide a firm, slightly crunchy base that contrasts beautifully with the gooey filling. Pistachio paste or ground pistachios infuses the filling with a nutty, aromatic flavor, while cream cheese gives the filling its characteristic tang and creaminess. Heavy cream and powdered sugar in the topping create a light, airy whipped cream that complements the dense layers of the cake. Finally, chopped pistachios add texture, color, and a finishing touch that makes this dessert truly special.

Technique Tips

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let the cream cheese, butter, and eggs come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smoother filling and even baking.
• Grind Pistachios Finely: Use a food processor to finely grind the pistachios for the crust, as larger pieces can prevent the crust from holding together.
• Do Not Overbake: The gooey butter filling should be slightly underbaked to maintain its creamy, gooey texture. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
• Whip Cream to Stiff Peaks: For the whipped cream topping, beat until stiff peaks form but avoid overmixing to keep it smooth and fluffy.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Individual Serving Cups: Instead of baking in a large pan, divide the crust and filling into small ramekins for individual servings. Adjust baking time as needed.
• Layered Trifle: Create a trifle by layering pieces of the gooey butter cake, whipped cream, and pistachios in a glass trifle bowl for a beautiful presentation.
• Pistachio Gooey Butter Bars: Cut the cake into smaller, bar-sized pieces for a portable dessert that’s perfect for parties or gifting.
• Mini Tarts: Press the crust into mini tart pans and top with the filling. Bake and garnish each tart individually.

Additional Tips for Success

• Chill for Clean Slices: For neat slices, refrigerate the cake for an hour before cutting. This helps the filling set further and makes it easier to slice.
• Use Quality Pistachios: Choose high-quality, fresh pistachios for the best flavor. Unsalted pistachios are ideal for controlling the salt level in the cake.
• Avoid Using Reduced-Fat Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor. Reduced-fat versions may make the filling too runny.
• Serve Fresh Whipped Cream: For best results, prepare the whipped cream just before serving to keep it light and airy.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Pistachio Gooey Butter Cake: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the crust and filling for a chocolatey twist that complements the pistachio flavor.
• Pistachio-Lemon Gooey Butter Cake: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the filling for a fresh citrus note that balances the richness of the cake.
• Almond-Pistachio Gooey Butter Cake: Replace half of the pistachios with ground almonds for a more complex, nutty flavor.
• Caramel Pistachio Gooey Butter Cake: Drizzle caramel sauce over the whipped cream for a sweet, sticky layer that pairs beautifully with the pistachios.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The texture will remain soft and gooey.
• Freezing: You can freeze the baked cake (without whipped cream topping) by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Refrigerating Whipped Cream Topping: If you have extra whipped cream, store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Re-whip slightly before using to restore fluffiness.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Reduce Sugar: Use 2 cups of powdered sugar instead of 3 in the filling for a slightly less sweet version.
• Use Greek Yogurt: Substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt to add protein and lighten up the filling.
• Whole Grain Option: Replace 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour in the crust with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Add Fresh Fruit: Serve with fresh berries or a fruit compote to add a refreshing, natural sweetness that balances the richness.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Brunch Gathering: Serve this cake as part of a brunch spread with fresh fruit, yogurt, and coffee for a delightful mix of sweet and savory.
• Holiday Dessert Table: This cake makes a beautiful and festive addition to a holiday dessert table, especially garnished with extra pistachios and edible gold dust.
• Afternoon Tea: Pair with a selection of teas or coffee to highlight the pistachio flavor and richness of the cake.
• Family Gathering or Potluck: This cake is perfect for sharing, so bring it to a family gathering or potluck and watch it disappear!

Special Equipment

• Food Processor: Useful for grinding the pistachios into a fine powder for the crust.
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Helpful for mixing the cream cheese filling until smooth and creamy.
• 9×13-Inch Baking Dish: This size is ideal for creating a thick, gooey butter cake that bakes evenly.
• Offset Spatula: Use for spreading the whipped cream evenly on top of the cake.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use salted pistachios?
Yes, but reduce the salt in the crust to avoid an overly salty taste. Adjust to taste as needed.

2. Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?
Absolutely! Almonds, walnuts, or even pecans can be substituted, though each will slightly alter the flavor.

3. How do I make sure the cake stays gooey?
Avoid overbaking the cake. The center should still look slightly underdone when you take it out of the oven, as it will set further while cooling.

4. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance. Wait to add the whipped cream until just before serving.

5. Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?
Yes, store-bought whipped topping can be used as a shortcut, though homemade whipped cream has a fresher taste and texture.

6. How do I make pistachio paste if I can’t find it?
To make pistachio paste, blend shelled pistachios in a food processor with a bit of water or oil until smooth. Add a small amount of sugar if desired.

7. What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch pan?
A smaller baking dish will work, but the cake will be thicker and may require a longer baking time. Monitor closely to avoid overbaking.

8. Can I omit the almond extract?
Yes, the almond extract is optional but enhances the pistachio flavor. Feel free to leave it out if you prefer.

Conclusion

This Buttery Pistachio Gooey Butter Cake is a decadent dessert that takes the classic gooey butter cake to a whole new level. The combination of buttery crust, gooey pistachio filling, and fluffy whipped cream topping creates a dessert that’s rich, flavorful, and unforgettable. The pistachio adds a unique nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet, buttery layers of the cake, making it a sophisticated dessert perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a holiday, or just looking to indulge, this cake is sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients and give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it! Enjoy every creamy, gooey, pistachio-filled bite.

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