Pistachio Gooey Butter Cake

This pistachio gooey butter cake is a wonderful treat for those craving a rich dessert without too much fuss. It balances a buttery base with a creamy, nutty topping that melts in your mouth making it a perfect dessert for weekend gatherings or a special weekday indulgence.

I first made this after spotting some pistachios on sale and it quickly became a favorite in our household for its simple ingredients and impressive flavor

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter: softened for a smooth and rich crust
• 2 cups granulated sugar: for sweetness that balances the richness
• 3 large eggs: to bind and add moisture to both layers
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: as the structure for the cake
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: for a subtle lift without airiness to keep it dense
• 8 ounces cream cheese: softened to create a creamy, tangy filling
• 1 cup unsalted pistachios: finely chopped for texture and a slightly sweet nutty flavor. Choosing fresh pistachios ensures they are vibrant and packed with flavor

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. Lightly coat a 9 by 13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to ensure easy removal and minimal sticking. This sets the stage for even cooking.

Make the Crust:

In a medium bowl cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add one egg and mix thoroughly to incorporate. Stir in the flour and baking powder just until combined forming a thick batter. Spread this mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish creating a solid base for the filling.

Prepare the Filling:

In a separate bowl beat the cream cheese and sugar together until creamy and smooth. Add two eggs one at a time mixing well after each addition to maintain a consistent texture. Gently fold in the chopped pistachios spreading the flavor throughout the filling.

Assemble and Bake:

Pour the cream cheese and pistachio mixture evenly over the crust in the baking dish making sure the layers remain distinct. Place your dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the top is golden brown but the center still holds a slight gooeyness for that perfect moist bite.

Cool and Serve:

Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan to help it firm up before slicing into squares. Serve warm and consider topping with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent experience.

My favorite part is the mild pistachio crunch which elevates this simple cake into something truly special. It reminds me of cozy family dinners where dessert was the true highlight and everyone savored each indulgent bite.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to five days to keep the filling firm and fresh. To reheat gently warm in the oven or microwave for a few seconds to bring back that gooey texture. This cake does not freeze as well due to its moisture content but small portions could be frozen if wrapped tightly.

Ingredient Swaps

You can swap pistachios for walnuts or almonds if preferred. Using salted nuts changes the flavor profile adding a savory edge so adjust sugar slightly if you do this. Greek yogurt or sour cream can replace cream cheese for a tangier, lighter filling though texture will vary.

Serving Ideas

Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra creaminess. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can add sweetness and visual appeal. This cake also pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a simple fruit compote.

This pistachio gooey butter cake is a luscious treat that balances flavor and texture beautifully for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I achieve the gooey center in this cake?

To keep the center gooey, bake the cake at 350°F for about 40-45 minutes. Watch for a golden top while the middle remains slightly soft.

→ Can I substitute pistachios with other nuts?

Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans can be used, but pistachios add a unique flavor and texture that complements the creamy filling.

→ What is the best way to prepare the pan for baking?

Use nonstick spray or lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy removal of the cake after baking.

→ Should the butter and cream cheese be at room temperature?

Yes, softening butter and cream cheese helps blend ingredients smoothly, resulting in a consistent texture for both layers.

→ How should I serve this cake for the best flavor experience?

Serving slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream enhances the creamy textures and nutty flavors.