Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Moist and fluffy: Tender yellow cake pairs perfectly with creamy filling.

  • Unique pistachio flavor: Pistachio pudding adds a delightful nutty twist.

  • Easy to assemble: Simple layers with whipped topping.

  • Crowd-pleaser: Great for holidays, parties, or casual get-togethers.

  • Classic comfort dessert: A retro favorite that never goes out of style.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Yellow cake mix (plus ingredients for cake)

  • Instant pistachio pudding mix

  • Milk

  • Cream cheese (softened)

  • Butter (softened)

  • Powdered sugar

  • Whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)

  • Chopped pecans or walnuts

  • Vanilla extract

Directions

  1. Bake cake: Prepare and bake yellow cake according to package instructions. Let cool completely.

  2. Make pistachio filling: In a bowl, combine instant pistachio pudding mix and milk. Whisk until thickened.

  3. Prepare cream cheese frosting: Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.

  4. Combine filling and frosting: Fold whipped topping and pistachio pudding into the cream cheese mixture.

  5. Assemble cake: Spread the pistachio filling evenly between the cooled cake layers and over the top.

  6. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top.

  7. Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 12

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

  • Chill Time: 2 hours

  • Total Time: Approximately 3 hours

Variations

  • Use homemade cake: Substitute with a homemade yellow or white cake.

  • Nut-free: Omit nuts or use seeds like sunflower seeds.

  • Add fruit: Incorporate crushed pineapple or mandarin oranges in the filling.

  • Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free cake mix.

  • Flavor twist: Add almond extract to the filling for extra nuttiness.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezing: Freeze covered for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before serving.

  • Reheating: Serve chilled or at room temperature; no reheating needed.

FAQs

What is Watergate Cake?

A layered yellow cake with pistachio pudding filling and whipped topping.

Can I use fresh pistachios?

Chopped fresh pistachios make a great garnish but pudding mix provides flavor.

Can I make this cake ahead?

Yes, it tastes better after chilling overnight.

How do I keep the cake moist?

Cover well and refrigerate promptly.

Can I use homemade frosting?

Yes, cream cheese or buttercream frosting works.

Is this cake kid-friendly?

Yes, sweet and creamy flavors appeal to all ages.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use two cake pans and double filling ingredients.

How do I prevent filling from being too runny?

Use full-fat ingredients and chill until firm.

Can I substitute pudding flavor?

Vanilla or almond pudding are good alternatives.

Does the cake freeze well?

Yes, wrapped tightly and thawed in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Watergate Cake is a delightful and nostalgic dessert that combines the moistness of yellow cake with a creamy pistachio filling and light whipped topping. Easy to make and crowd-pleasing, it’s perfect for any occasion where you want a sweet, nutty treat.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Watergate Cake

Watergate Cake

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Alice
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free
Print Recipe

Description

Watergate Cake is a classic, moist yellow cake layered with a creamy pistachio filling, topped with fluffy whipped cream and chopped nuts. This nostalgic dessert blends sweet and nutty flavors with light, airy texture—perfect for potlucks, holidays, and family gatherings.

Ingredients

  • Yellow cake mix (plus ingredients required by the mix)

  • Instant pistachio pudding mix

  • Milk

  • Cream cheese (softened)

  • Butter (softened)

  • Powdered sugar

  • Whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)

  • Chopped pecans or walnuts

  • Vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Bake cake: Prepare and bake the yellow cake according to package instructions. Allow to cool completely.

  2. Make pistachio filling: Whisk instant pistachio pudding mix with milk until thickened.

  3. Prepare cream cheese frosting: Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.

  4. Combine filling and frosting: Fold whipped topping and pistachio pudding into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.

  5. Assemble cake: Spread pistachio filling evenly between cake layers and over the top.

  6. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top.

  7. Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving for best texture and flavor.

Notes

Use homemade yellow or white cake for a scratch version.Omit nuts or substitute with seeds for nut-free option.Add crushed pineapple or mandarin oranges to filling for a fruity twist.Almond extract can boost the nutty flavor in the filling.Use gluten-free cake mix to make it gluten-free.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star