Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that's as intriguing as its political namesake! The Watergate Cake is not just a dessert; it's a slice of American culinary history that combines the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios with a moist, decadent cake that will leave your taste buds craving more. Whether you're a baking enthusiast or a curious foodie, this recipe promises to transform your kitchen into a gourmet paradise with its surprisingly simple preparation and absolutely irresistible taste.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box pistachio pudding mix
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pistachio pudding mix, vegetable oil, water, and eggs. Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend the ingredients together until smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cake is completely cooled, top it with whipped cream for a light and fluffy finish. You can also garnish with additional chopped walnuts or pistachios if desired.
- Slice the cake into squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious Pistachio Pudding Cake, also known as Watergate Cake!
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for smoother batter mixing and better cake texture.
- Don't Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense cake.
- Check for Doneness: Use the toothpick test - insert it into the center of the cake, and if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the cake cool completely before adding whipped cream to prevent melting and ensure a perfect presentation.
- Customize Your Topping: While whipped cream is classic, try experimenting with cream cheese frosting or a light pistachio glaze for extra flavor.
- Storage Tip: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain its moisture and freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 65mg
