Ingredients
Method
Preparation and Preheating
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Grease two 20 cm cake tins and line the bases with baking paper.
Grinding Pistachios
- Place the 100 g shelled pistachios in a food processor.
- Pulse until they are finely ground but not oily.
Making the Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, beat 250 g softened unsalted butter and 240 g golden caster sugar until pale and fluffy (3–5 minutes).
- Add 1 tsp vanilla extract.
- Add the 4 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Scrape the bowl down so the mix is even.
- Sift in 150 g plain flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and ¼ tsp sea salt. Fold gently with a spatula.
- Fold in the ground pistachios until the batter is smooth and even.
Baking the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the two tins.
- Smooth the tops and bake for 20–25 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes in the tins for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a cooling rack to cool fully.
Making the Pistachio Buttercream
- In a clean bowl, beat 175 g softened unsalted butter until smooth.
- Gradually add 280 g sifted icing sugar and beat until light.
- Add 2 tbsp smooth pistachio cream, ½ tsp fine sea salt, and 1 tsp lemon juice.
- Beat until the buttercream is smooth and spreadable.
Assembling the Cake
- Level the cakes if needed so they sit flat.
- Place the first layer on a board. Spread 3 tbsp raspberry jam in a thin layer.
- Add a layer of buttercream, then place the second cake on top.
- Use the remaining buttercream to cover the top and sides.
- Decorate with 250 g fresh raspberries, 2 tbsp chopped toasted pistachios, and mint sprigs.
Chilling the Cake
- Chill the cake for 30 minutes to set the buttercream before slicing.
Notes
Serve at room temperature; bring out of the fridge 30 minutes before slicing. Pairs well with tea or light coffee. Fresh raspberries should be added just before serving for best results.
