Moist Pistachio Cake
There’s something special about a cake that brings back memories and warms the heart. Imagine a lovingly baked moist pistachio cake, reminiscent of those delightful moments spent with family and friends. This dessert is not just appealing visually, but it also offers a remarkably rich texture and flavor profile, courtesy of the delicious pistachios and the unique addition of 7-Up soda. Yes, you heard correctly! This isn’t just any cake; it’s a whimsical blend of retro charm and contemporary taste that’s sure to evoke nostalgia.
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When I first made this moist pistachio cake as part of a family gathering, I was greeted with cheers and smiles. It’s easy, it’s delightful, and it impressively straddles that fine line between fuss-free and fabulous. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy afternoon treat, this cake has won over many hearts. Its inviting aroma fills the kitchen as it bakes, creating an irresistible allure that beckons everyone to the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Easy to whip up in just 15 minutes of prep time!
- Irresistible Flavor: The nutty goodness of pistachios combined with the sweet notes of 7-Up creates a delightful taste that’s hard to forget.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant green specks of pistachio make for a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress.
- Flexible Serving: Enjoy it anytime—whether as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast with coffee.
- Diet-Friendly Options: If needed, consider gluten-free cake mix or different nut options for a spin on flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need
- 15.25 ounce box white cake mix: This is the base of the cake, lending structure and sweetness. Opt for a quality brand to ensure the best results.
- 0.4 ounce box pistachio instant pudding: Adds moisture and enhances the pistachio flavor. Avoid traditional puddings as they don’t have the same flavor intensity.
- Large eggs (4 units): Acts as a binding agent, providing stability and richness to the cake. Eggs should be at room temperature for even mixing.
- 1 cup 7-Up soda: This unexpected ingredient helps in creating a light and fluffy texture while enhancing flavor.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender. You can substitute with canola oil or melted coconut oil if desired.
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract: Adds a lovely nutty aroma which pairs perfectly with pistachios. If you prefer, feel free to use vanilla extract.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios: The star ingredient, bringing texture and flavor. Use roasted, unsalted pistachios for the best results.
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: For dusting on top of the cake, adding a sweet touch to the final presentation.
How to Make Moist Pistachio Cake
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms up, butter and flour a 10 or 12-inch fluted bundt pan to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
Combine the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the white cake mix, the pistachio instant pudding, and four large eggs. Then pour in 1 cup of 7-Up soda, followed by 1/2 cup of vegetable oil and 1/4 teaspoon almond extract. This step is essential as each ingredient plays a vital role in flavor and texture.
Mix Together: Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat the batter vigorously for about 2 minutes until all ingredients are well combined and smooth. Make sure to pay attention to any lumps; you want a perfectly mixed cake batter.
Fold in the Pistachios: Gently fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped pistachios using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain the lovely texture of the nuts in your cake.
Pour and Bake: Once the batter is ready, pour it evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Slide it into the oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges are lightly golden.
Cool and Remove: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven, allowing it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, to release it, run a dull knife around the edges, gently loosening it. Invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Dust and Serve: When the cake is fully cooled, take 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and dust it over the top for a sweet finishing touch. Slice, serve, and enjoy each delightful bite!

Storing & Reheating
To store any leftovers, let the cake sit at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, refrigerate it for about a week, ensuring it stays fresh. Alternatively, it freezes beautifully; seal it tightly in plastic wrap and pop it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw at room temperature or warm it slightly in the oven. Keep in mind that while the texture may change just a little after freezing, refreshing it in the oven helps restore its original fluffiness.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Always ensure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth batter.
- Give your bundt pan a generous coating of butter and flour to prevent sticking; it’s crucial for a beautiful release.
- If the cake sinks in the middle, it may have been underbaked, so keep an eye on the toothpick test!
- Enhance the nutty flavor by toasting the pistachios lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the batter.
- Consider making this cake a day ahead. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop and blend.
Isn’t it time to embrace the wonder of this moist pistachio cake? With its gentle sweetness and inviting fragrance, it’s a showstopper sure to bring joy to every gathering. Whether for special celebrations or just because, every bite promises a taste of nostalgia that warms the soul.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Absolutely! While this recipe shines with the vanilla cake mix, feel free to try a lemon or even a butter-flavored mix to add your unique twist. Just remember, it might subtly change the overall flavor profile.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can easily swap the white cake mix for a gluten-free variety. Make sure to check the label on the instant pudding as well, ensuring it’s gluten-free.
Can I add a frosting to this cake?
While the powdered sugar dusting is perfect, if you crave something richer, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk could elevate the flavors. Alternatively, cream cheese frosting would complement the pistachio beautifully.
How long does it take to bake the cake?
Typically, the cake takes about 40 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, but every oven is different. Be sure to check for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center; when it comes out clean, it’s ready!
Now, whip up this delightful cake, gather your loved ones, and let its charm do the rest. Enjoy the flavors, the laughter, and the memories you will create around this wonderful dessert.
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📖 Recipe Card

Moist Pistachio Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Cakes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Moist Pistachio Cake is a delightful treat that’s bursting with flavor. With simple ingredients like white cake mix and pistachio pudding, it’s a breeze to prepare and bake. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner!
Ingredients
- 15.25 ounce box white cake mix
- 0.4 ounce box pistachio instant pudding
- Large eggs – 4 units
- 7up soda – 1 cup
- Vegetable oil – 1/2 cup
- Almond extract – 1/4 teaspoon
- Finely chopped pistachios – 1/2 cup
- Powdered sugar – 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a 10 or 12-inch fluted bundt pan by buttering and flouring it.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cake mix, instant pudding powder, eggs, 7UP soda, vegetable oil, and almond extract until combined.
- Beat the mixture with an electric mixer or vigorously whisk for 2 minutes.
- Gently fold in the chopped pistachios using a spatula until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Run a dull knife around the edges to loosen the cake, then invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust the cake with powdered sugar and serve.
Notes
Ensure the bundt pan is well-greased to prevent sticking.
Chopped pistachios can be toasted lightly for added flavor.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
