Preheat Oven to 350˚F and line bottoms of two 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper. Do not grease pans.

In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat 6 large eggs plus 2 whites with whisk attachment 1 min on high speed until foamy. With mixer on, gradually add 1 cup sugar and continue beating on high speed 8-10 min until thick and fluffy.

Whisk baking powder into flour then sift flour in two additions into batter, folding gently with a spatula between each addition, scraping the bottom of the bowl to ensure you don’t have hidden pockets of flour. Fold in 1/4 cup poppy seeds until incorporated and no streaks of flour remain. Do not over-mix.

Divide batter evenly between 2 prepared cake pans. Bake at 350˚F for 23-28 min, or until top is golden and springs back when poked slightly. Once out of the oven, remove from pan by sliding a thin spatula around the edges then transfer to a wire rack, peel back parchment paper and cool to room temp.

Beat cold heavy whipping cream on high speed with whisk attachment for 1.5 to 2 min until stiff and spreadable then transfer to a separate dish. In the same mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and 3/4 cup sugar on medium speed until smooth, then increase to high speed and beat 2 min until fluffy. Fold in whipped cream.

Combine syrup ingredients and stir until sugar dissolves. Place the first base layer onto a cake platter. Brush 1/4 of the syrup onto the cake then spread with frosting. Repeat with remaining layers. Frost the sides and top with just enough to smooth out the cake.

Transfer 3/4 cup frosting to a piping bag fitted with a large star Wilton 1M tip. Pour ganache over the top of the cake, allowing excess to pour off the sides. Refrigerate 10 min to set. Pipe frosting around the borders, top with blackberries and chopped pistachios.