If you adore light, moist cakes with a nutty punch and a fluffy frosting that feels like a cloud, you are in for an absolute treat with this Pistachio Cake with Dream Whip Frosting Recipe. This delightful dessert combines the subtly sweet, earthy flavor of pistachios with the airy texture of Dream Whip, creating an irresistible cake that’s perfect for celebrations or an indulgent afternoon snack. Trust me, once you make this cake, it will become a beloved classic in your recipe box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is all it takes to create this stunning Pistachio Cake with Dream Whip Frosting Recipe. Each element plays a special role—whether it’s adding flavor, ensuring moisture, or delivering that signature green hue.
- 15.25 ounces cake mix (white or yellow): Provides a tender, fluffy base that’s delightfully neutral in flavor to highlight the pistachio.
- 3 tablespoons flour: Helps balance the batter and add structure so the cake rises perfectly.
- 1 package (4 serving size) pistachio instant pudding mix: Infuses the cake with authentic pistachio flavor and extra moisture.
- 3 eggs: Bind all the ingredients together and enrich the texture with added tenderness.
- 1 cup club soda or water: Reacts gently with the leavening agents to produce a light, airy crumb.
- 1/2 cup oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender without weighing it down.
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (preferably pistachios): Sprinkle throughout for delightful crunch and an intensified nutty note.
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk: The essential base for whipping the Dream Whip frosting, adding creaminess and richness.
- 1 envelope Dream Whip: A versatile whipped topping that whips up beautifully and holds peaks for a fluffy, luscious frosting.
- 1 package (4 serving size) instant pistachio pudding mix (for frosting): Gives an irresistible pistachio flavor and creamy consistency to the frosting.
How to Make Pistachio Cake with Dream Whip Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure consistent baking. Take time to grease and flour your cake pans, whether 9 x 13-inch or two 9-inch rounds; this step is essential to keep your cake from sticking and coming out perfectly intact.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the cake mix, flour, and pistachio instant pudding mix. This ensures the flavors are evenly distributed and there are no lumps, laying the foundation for a smooth batter.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients with Dry
Add eggs, club soda or water, oil, and the chopped nuts into the dry mixture. Using an electric mixer, blend on medium speed for two minutes. This thorough mixing gives the batter the right texture and integrates air to lighten the cake.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pans and slide them into the oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the Dream Whip frosting.
Step 5: Whip Up the Dream Whip Frosting
In a deep bowl, pour in the cold milk. Add the envelope of Dream Whip and the pistachio pudding mix designated for the frosting. Begin mixing with an electric mixer on low for about 30 seconds, then gradually increase speed until stiff peaks form. This luscious frosting is fluffy, creamy, and bursting with pistachio flavor.
Step 6: Frost Your Cake
Spread the frosting generously over the cooled cake. Its airy texture complements the moist crumb below, creating layers of indulgence in every bite.
How to Serve Pistachio Cake with Dream Whip Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, sprinkle chopped pistachios or edible rose petals on top of the frosting. For a touch of elegance, a light dusting of powdered sugar can add a snowy contrast that looks as delightful as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This pistachio cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The freshness of the fruit cuts through the sweetness, while the ice cream adds another creamy dimension to your dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual slices adorned with a mint sprig on delicate china for tea parties or family gatherings. You can also cut the cake into small squares for an elegant dessert platter that encourages sharing and sampling.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover Pistachio Cake with Dream Whip Frosting Recipe tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This will keep the cake moist and the frosting fresh for up to four days.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake before frosting by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then frost with freshly whipped Dream Whip frosting for best results.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a slightly warmer slice, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Avoid microwaving as the frosting texture may be compromised.
FAQs
Can I use regular whipped cream instead of Dream Whip?
Absolutely! While Dream Whip offers a stable, long-lasting frosting, fresh whipped cream can be a lovely substitute if you want a lighter, softer topping. Just note it may not hold peaks as firmly.
Is it necessary to use club soda in the cake batter?
Club soda adds a slight fizz that lightens the cake texture, but water works just fine if you don’t have any on hand. The cake will still be moist and delicious.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the cake mix and flour with gluten-free alternatives that behave similarly. Be sure your pudding mixes and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What is the best way to chop pistachios for the cake?
Use a sharp knife to roughly chop the pistachios into small pieces, ensuring some texture remains for that pleasant crunch without overwhelming the batter.
How long does Dream Whip frosting hold up on the cake?
Dream Whip frosting is quite stable and typically holds up well for up to four days when refrigerated. Just keep the cake covered to maintain freshness and prevent it from absorbing fridge odors.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend the Pistachio Cake with Dream Whip Frosting Recipe enough—it’s the perfect balance of moist, nutty, and fluffy all in one bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this cake shows up with style and irresistible flavor. Give it a go and watch it become your new favorite dessert to share with friends and family!
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Pistachio Cake with Dream Whip Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
This delightful Pistachio Cake features a moist and fluffy base made from a mix of cake mix and pistachio pudding, topped with a creamy pistachio-flavored frosting made from instant pudding and Dream Whip. It’s an easy-to-make dessert perfect for gatherings, offering a rich nutty flavor and a light, airy texture.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 15.25 ounces white or yellow cake mix
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 package (4 serving size) pistachio instant pudding mix
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup club soda or water
- 1/2 cup oil
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 1 envelope Dream Whip
- 1 package (4 serving size) instant pistachio pudding mix
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the cake.
- Prepare Cake Pans: Grease and flour your 9 x 13-inch cake pan(s) thoroughly to prevent the cake from sticking. Alternatively, you may use two 9-inch round pans.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, flour, and pistachio pudding mix evenly.
- Add Wet Ingredients and Mix: Add the eggs, club soda or water, oil, and chopped nuts to the dry ingredients. Using an electric mixer, blend everything at medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and well combined.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan(s) and bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. Verify doneness by inserting a toothpick that comes out clean. Once baked, remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
- Prepare Frosting: In a deep bowl, pour cold milk and add the Dream Whip and the instant pistachio pudding mix. Using an electric mixer, start mixing on low speed for about 30 seconds, then gradually increase the speed until stiff peaks form, creating a light, fluffy frosting.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled thoroughly, spread the pistachio frosting evenly over the top using a spatula or knife.
Notes
- You can substitute club soda with water if preferred; club soda may add extra lightness to the cake texture.
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Chopped nuts add texture and flavor; you can omit or replace nuts for allergies or preferences.
- This cake can be made in round pans for a layered look or a rectangle pan for simpler presentation.
- Dream Whip is a whipped topping mix; if unavailable, whipped cream can be an alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American

