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Grandma's Secret Pistachio Almond Coffee Cake

A delightful coffee cake infused with pistachios and almonds, featuring a creamy filling and crunchy topping, perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Almond, Baking, coffee cake, Dessert Recipe, pistachio
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 300kcal

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened For that rich, creamy texture.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar To add sweetness and moisture.
  • 4 large eggs Binding the ingredients together and enriching the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract For a robust, nutty undertone.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhancing the cake's overall flavor profile.
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Providing the structure.
  • 0.5 cup finely ground pistachios Infusing the cake with nutty richness.
  • 0.5 cup almond flour Adding a soft, moist crumb.
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder Ensuring the cake rises perfectly.
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt Enhancing the sweet and nutty flavors.
  • 0.5 cup milk Keeping the batter moist and tender.

For the Whipped Cream Filling

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream For a decadent filling.
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar Sweetening the whipped cream.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Another layer of flavor.

For the Crunchy Topping

  • 0.5 cup chopped pistachios For the crunchy topping.
  • 0.25 cup chopped almonds Adding more texture and nut flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar For a hint of caramel-like sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted Binding the crunchy topping ingredients together.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the almond and vanilla extracts.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground pistachios, almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, mixing until just combined.
  • Pour the batter evenly between the prepared pans and gently tap the pans on the counter.

Baking

  • Bake the cakes for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans, then transfer to a wire rack.

Assembly

  • Make the whipped cream filling by whipping the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
  • Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread the whipped cream filling on top, and add the second layer.
  • In a small bowl, combine the chopped pistachios, chopped almonds, brown sugar, and melted butter; sprinkle over the cake.
  • Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a spiced twist or mini chocolate chips for an unexpected burst of flavor. Always serve the cake chilled.