Watergate Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for an old-fashioned cake recipe that not only contains historical context but is also delicious and easy to make. Then the Watergate Cake Recipe could be the one. How? Because this cake is a mix of pistachio pudding, coconut, and pecans. Yes! Just by combining the ingredients of this cake, brings a unique and in-depth flavor to this cake that has literally no match. 

Then, why are we still here? Let’s not waste any time in the intro and jump into a cake recipe that has been a favorite for generations. So, come with me to my kitchen and learn how to make a perfect Watergate Cake. 

Why You’ll Love This Watergate Cake Recipe

Many people still wonder what the reasons that kept the Watergate Cake still a favorite to almost everyone who has a sweet tooth. So, from to them the easiest answer of this question is that this cake doesn’t require baking. That means, this cake is easy to prepare. That allows people to make it quickly. 

Apart from these two reasons, there are also some other delicious characteristics that make it a mouthwatering cake. And those characteristics can make you fall in love with this Watergate Cake. So, what are those features? Let’s find them here:

1. A No-Bake Easy Recipe

Making a cake by baking it is always a fun thing to do. But sometimes you may need an easy-to-make recipe while you’re in a busy schedule or suddenly you hear that a guest is coming to your home. And this is where the Watergate Cake recipe comes in. It’s really simple to make and you don’t have to be a baking expert. And though it doesn’t require any special skill to prepare it still tastes that much amazing to please your taste buds. 

2. Customizable Watergate Cake 

The versatility of the Watergate Cake recipe is one of the best things about it. You can easily customize it as you want. Like if you like a bit of crunch, you can add some chopped walnuts or pecans. And if you want a fruity twist in your cake, you can also bring it just by adding crushed pineapple or other fruits. Not only that what if your foodie soul wants some more flavors to add to your cake? Dear, you can also add them as your preference.

3. Has Unique Ingredients for a Jawdropping Taste

Watergate cake is made with a blend of unique ingredients which is the reason for its jaw-dropping signature taste. Yeah, ingredients like pistachio pudding mix bring its signature green hue and a delightful nutty flavor. And the inclusion of coconut and pecans adds a heavenly texture that enhances the overall taste of this cake. So, the mixture of these yummy ingredients works together to create a Watergate cake that’s both visually appealing and irresistibly tasty.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

This cake is perfect for hosting a family gathering. Not only that, it’s also a great option for attending a potluck. And why I’m saying that? Because its vibrant green color adds a festive mood, and the divine flavor ensures it will lure the heart of anyone who tastes it.

5. Healthier Than You Think

Watergate cake is undeniably a savory. Besides it’s also healthy because of its lightness. Yes! The use of whipped topping instead of heavy frosting keeps the cake light and airy. And the nutritious ingredients like nuts and coconut in this cake recipe make it healthy too. 

6. Loved for Generations

This vintage recipe has been passed down through generations. And that makes it a beloved classic from then till now. Many families take it as their go-to dessert for its simplicity and nostalgic flavors. By making this cake you’re just not only creating a delicious treat for your loved ones but also keeping a cherished tradition alive.

Ingredients for Making a Classic No-Bake Watergate Cake

The ingredients that you’ll need to gather to make this recipe I’ve listed them in detail in this section. I also added some optional additions and substitutions with dietary concerns. 

So, gather the ingredients below ASAP to start making your Watergate Cake today:

For the Cake Base:

• 1 package (3.4 oz) of pistachio instant pudding mix
• 1 package (15.25 oz) of yellow cake mix  
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup of club soda
•  1/2 cup of vegetable oil
• 1 cup of shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup of chopped pecans

For the Topping:

• 1 package (3.4 oz) of pistachio instant pudding mix
• 1 1/2 cups of cold milk
• 1 container (8 oz) of whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

Optional Additions:

• You can use 1 cup of crushed pineapple to add a fruity twist and extra moisture to your cake. And it’s an easy process. All you need to do is mix the crushed pineapple into the cake batter or fold it into the topping and you’ll get a luscious fruity flavor and moisture. 
• If you want a colorful garnish and extra flavor, just sprinkle 1/2 cup of chopped maraschino cherries on the top of the cake. 

Substitutions:

• So, many people don’t like pistachio flavor. And if you’re one of them then no problem. Just swap the pistachio pudding for another flavor like vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry. 

• Do you have nut allergies? Don’t worry! You can simply leave the nuts from the frosting and use sunflower seeds instead. And by using the sunflower seed you’ll get a similar crunch.

• For a gluten-free option, you can use a certified gluten-free yellow cake mix. 

• And if you want to make your cake without any dairy products, then you’ll need to use coconut whipped cream and plant-based milk. 

How to Make No-Bake Watergate Cake Easily: Step-by-Step Instructions

I told you before that I learned this recipe from my mother. And to me, she is a genius. Yup! You heard it right. But why I’m calling her a genius? Because since I started learning to cook from her, I’ve seen how perfectly she simplifies the making process of any recipe. 

So, from her, I was able to learn the easiest way of making this recipe. And now, I’m going to share with you that recipe through step-by-step instructions. Let’s dig in:

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Check out the ingredients list and make sure that you’ve all of them in your hand. And if you stored the eggs in the fridge, take them out and keep them at room temperature for about 15 minutes before you start making the cake. 

On the other hand, check your club soda to see whether it’s cold or not. Because you’ve to use cold club soda for a refreshing flavor burst. 

Take a large mixing bowl and your electric mixture (if you have it). Because they will make your mixing process easier. But don’t worry if you don’t have an electric mixture. A good whisk and some elbow grease will work perfectly too.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

Now, take your large mixing bowl and add the yellow cake mix and pistachio instant pudding mix. Then mix them together properly. If you’re using your electric mixer, then beat on low speed for about a minute. Then crank it up to medium speed for another 2 minutes for a smooth and creamy batter. 

After that, add the eggs, club soda, and vegetable oil in the mixing bowl. Beat them again on medium speed for another 2 minutes until you mix them all together perfectly. 

If it’s done, add the shredded coconut and chopped pecans, and mix them well until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Chill or Bake

In this step, take a 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it lightly with cooking spray or butter. Then pour the batter into the pan. Use a spatula to gently spread it out and take a close to ensure there are no air pockets. 

After that, cover the pan with plastic wrap and chill it in your fridge for at least 4 hours. But keeping it in the fridge for a night is the ideal option because it helps the pudding to set perfectly and also brings the signature creamy texture of the Watergate Cake.

Though Watergate Cake is traditionally made by not baking it, you also can bake it. For baking just preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then place the baking pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Use a toothpick to check the center of the cake. If it comes out clean your cake is fully baked.

Step 4: Make the Topping

While your cake is chilling or baking, take another mixing bowl and whisk the pistachio instant pudding mix and cold milk until the texture becomes thick. Then, add the whipped topping and mix until everything is well combined and smooth.

And if you’re using your electric mixer to do this step, then beat the thawed whipped topping and cold milk together until they form stiff peaks. 

Step 5: Assembled the Cake

Check out the cake base. If it’s chilled, spread the topping that you prepared recently. Make sure that you’re spreading the topping evenly over the top of the cake base. If you want you can sprinkle crushed pineapple and chopped maraschino cherries over the topping to add a fruity flavor and decoration.

Step 6: Enjoy the Watergate Cake Recipe

And it’s time to enjoy your chilled, delicious Watergate Cake. So, slice it and serve this homemade savory cake to share its divine flavor with everyone. 

And one more thing that I forgot to tell you. What’s that? You can store any leftovers in your refrigerator for up to 3 days. So, no more worries about wasting your Watergate Cake. Keep it in your fridge and bless your tongue for three straight days.

Flavour Variations for Watergate Cake

Previously in this blog, I discussed with you the versatility of the Watergate Cake recipe. So now, in this section, I’m going to talk about some creative flavor variations of this recipe. These easy customizations will take your Watergate Cake to the next level. 

And each variation offers a unique twist on the traditional Watergate Cake recipe. So, are you ready to bring new flavors and textures to your cake? If you are, let’s  explore: 

1. Chocolate Chip Watergate Cake

You can turn your classic nutty Watergate Cake into a rich chocolaty flavor. Just add 1 cup of mini chocolate chips to the cake batter and you’ll get a crunchy and chocolaty flavor in your every bite.

2. Peanut Butter Watergate Cake

If you want to add a rich, nutty depth that complements the pistachio in your Watergate Cake, then you’ll need to follow the below steps: 

• Substitute ½ cup of vegetable oil with ½ cup of creamy peanut butter. 

• Drizzle melted peanut butter on top of the whipped topping. 

3. Coconut Lime Watergate Cake

Personally I love this variation. Why? Because of its refreshing, zesty, and tropical flavor. But how to bring this flavor into your classic Watergate Cake? That’s simple. 

All you need to do is use 1 cup of coconut milk instead of club soda. And then 1 tablespoon of lime zest to the batter. In the end, garnish with lime slices and toasted coconut flakes. And your Coconut Lime watergate Cake is ready to serve. 

Tips and Tricks to Make Your Watergate Cake Outstanding 

Now let’s learn some tricks to make your easy Watergate Cake into a perfect one from the following discussion: 

Essential Equipment:

• Use a large mixing bowl for mixing the cake batter and frosting. 

• If you have an electric mixer, then your mixing process will be much easier. 

• Whisking is important for combining batter and whipping frosting. 

• Pick a rubber spatula. It’s great for scraping the bowl and mixing evenly. 

Storage Tips:

• You can store the cake in the fridge for up to 3 days. 

• You’ve to cover it loosely with a plastic warp to keep the frosting from drying out.

Serving Tips:

• To have perfect and clean cake slices you’ve to let the cake sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before slicing. 

Nutritional Benefits of Watergate Cake Recipe

Here’s detailed nutritional info per 1 slice, based on 12 servings of Watergate Cake Recipe. And before you jump into the chart please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients and portions used. 

History of the Watergate Cake

When the potlucks and buffets were popular, yes, I’m taking you back to the 1950s and 1960s. The roots of this cake are linked to the popular pistachio salad. And during the Watergate scandal of the early 1970s, the cake was likely renamed either as a playful reference to its nutty ingredients or because it became popular at gatherings discussing the scandal. Though the origin of Watergate Cake is mysterious, the taste of it remains the yummiest one. 

FAQs

Q1. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

A: Yes, of course, you can use a certified gluten-free yellow cake mix.

Q2. What can I use instead of pistachio pudding mix?

A: You can use vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry pudding mix.

Q3. How long can I store this cake?

A: You can store Watergate Cake in the fridge for up to 3 days. 

Conclusion:

So, these are all about the Watergate Cake Recipe. I hope you’ve found this recipe easy to make as the preparation of this classic cake is simple but the taste of it is so flavorful. And with its rich pistachio flavor, customizable options, and healthy ingredients, there’s no doubt that how this vintage recipe remained a favorite for generations. Therefore, try it out now and share your experience with me through the comments. And don’t forget to rate this recipe.