Name: Lemon Pistachio Cake
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 cup roasted shelled pistachios; 1.5 cups fine blanched almond flour; 1 cup oat flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda; 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt; zest from 2 large lemons; 1 cup granulated sugar; 4 large eggs (at room temperature); 0.5 cup plain or vanilla whole-milk Greek yogurt; 0.25 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 batch Lovely Lemon Frosting; 6 tablespoons low sugar strawberry jam ((or sub blueberry!)); as needed Strawberries (or berries of choice) (for topping)

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The first time I made Lemon Pistachio Cake, it was for a sunny spring gathering at my friend’s house. The aroma of lemon wafted through the kitchen as the cake baked; it held the promise of refreshing sweetness and nutty richness. As I layered the delicate frosting on top, I could already picture my friends’ faces lighting up with delight upon their first bite. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and a testament to the joy of sharing something homemade. Every slice is a reminder that good food brings us together, and with each forkful, laughter and stories flow. Whether it’s a birthday, a spring picnic, or just because, this Lemon Pistachio Cake has a way of making any occasion feel special. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 25 mins

Prep Time:
60 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
6 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Gluten-Free

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Food Processor, Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Mixing Bowl

Why This Lemon Pistachio Cake Works

1. Unique Flavor Combination

The blend of bright lemon and rich pistachios provides a unique flavor profile that you won’t find in most cakes. The zest of the lemons infuses the batter with a refreshing brightness that complements the subtle nuttiness of the pistachios. This cake is not just about being sweet; it invites your taste buds to experience a delightful dance of flavors.

2. Moist and Tender Texture

Thanks to the almond flour and Greek yogurt, this cake comes out incredibly moist and tender. You’ll find that each slice melts in your mouth, creating a heavenly texture that keeps you coming back for more. It’s the kind of cake that feels indulgent yet light, making it perfect for any gathering.

3. Beautiful Presentation

Layering this cake is an art! The vibrant colors of the strawberries and the dusting of ground pistachios on top create a stunning visual appeal. It’s a treat for the eyes as much as it is for the palate. When you bring this cake to the table, it becomes the centerpiece that draws everyone in.

4. Simple Ingredients

With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create something truly special. The pistachios, almond flour, and lemons are often staples in my pantry, making this cake an accessible option for anyone wanting to bake something extraordinary without a long shopping list.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

This cake is versatile! Whether it’s a spring celebration, a cozy family gathering, or a delightful addition to a brunch spread, the Lemon Pistachio Cake fits right in. Its refreshing flavor makes it a fantastic choice for warm weather, but honestly, it can brighten any day.

Recipe Ingredients for Lemon Pistachio Cake

Each ingredient in this Lemon Pistachio Cake plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The pistachios provide a nutty sweetness, while the almond flour enhances the cake’s moistness. Fresh lemons introduce a zesty brightness, and the Greek yogurt adds richness and tenderness. Altogether, they create a symphony of taste that’s irresistible.

1 cup (135g) roasted shelled pistachios – Ground finely, they add a unique flavor and texture to the cake, making each bite delightful.
1 ½ cups (169g) fine blanched almond flour – This gluten-free flour gives the cake a moist and tender crumb.
1 cup (95g) oat flour – A healthy alternative that blends well with the other flours, adding to the cake’s overall texture.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cake rise, ensuring it’s light and fluffy.
½ teaspoon baking soda – Works with the acids in the batter to create lift.
½ teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors in the cake.
Zest from 2 large lemons – Infuses the batter with a fresh, zesty flavor.
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake beautifully, balancing the tartness of the lemons.
4 large eggs, at room temperature – Provides structure and moisture to the cake.
½ cup (113g) plain or vanilla whole-milk Greek yogurt – Adds richness and moisture.
¼ cup (50g) fresh squeezed lemon juice – Enhances the lemon flavor and adds acidity to balance the sweetness.
1 teaspoon almond extract – Adds a lovely nutty flavor that complements the pistachios.
1 batch Lovely Lemon Frosting – The finishing touch that brings the whole cake together.
6 tablespoons low sugar strawberry jam – Adds a fruity layer between the cake layers.
Strawberries (or berries of choice), for topping – Fresh berries add a beautiful garnish and a burst of flavor.

Putting Together Lemon Pistachio Cake

Making this Lemon Pistachio Cake is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with divine aromas! Each step is simple yet satisfying, and the end result is a masterpiece. Let’s get started!

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line the bottom of three 6-inch round cake pans or two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper rounds. Spray the parchment paper and sides of the pans with nonstick cooking spray. This step is crucial; you really must use parchment paper or the cakes will stick to the pan, ruining your beautiful creation.
Prepare the pistachios: Add 1 cup of pistachios to the bowl of a food processor and process on high until they are finely ground, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be sure to reserve 1 to 2 tablespoons of ground pistachios to decorate the cake later.
Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, add the ground pistachios (minus the reserved portion), then whisk in the almond flour, oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. This mixture will form the foundation of your cake.
Combine the wet ingredients: In a separate large bowl, add the granulated sugar and lemon zest. Use your clean fingers to rub the zest into the sugar for about 1 minute. This infuses the sugar with the bright lemon flavor. Then add the eggs, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and almond extract; whisk until everything is smooth and well combined.
Incorporate the dry into the wet: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix gently with a wooden spoon until the batter is smooth. If you want to add a fun twist, mix in 1 to 2 drops of dye-free food coloring to give the cake a more vibrant color.
Divide the batter: Carefully divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Use a spatula to spread it out and smooth the tops, ensuring even baking.
Bake the cakes: Place the pans in the oven and bake for 18 to 25 minutes for the two 8-inch pans, or 22 to 28 minutes for three 6-inch pans. The cakes are done when a tester comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Allow them to cool completely in the pans.
Frost the cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, it’s time to assemble! Place about 1 to 2 tablespoons of frosting on your cake stand to hold the cake in place. Invert one of the cakes, flat side up, and add about ½ heaping cup of frosting, spreading it toward the edges. If using strawberry jam, add 3 tablespoons on top of the frosting and spread it out, leaving about a ¼ inch border. Repeat this with the next layer.
Crumb coat the cake: After layering, frost the top and sides of the cake with a thin layer of frosting. Use a bench scraper or offset spatula to create a smooth finish. This is called a crumb coat and allows for a beautiful finish once you frost it again.
Chill the cake: Transfer the cake to the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes until the crumb coat is firm to the touch. Once chilled, repeat the frosting process with the remaining frosting until smooth. If your cake looks slightly ‘naked’ on the outside, that’s perfectly fine—it’s going to be delicious!
Garnish and serve: Before serving, dust the top with reserved ground pistachios and decorate with fresh strawberries or other berries of your choice to make it visually stunning. Enjoy immediately or store the cake in the fridge for up to 5 days in a well-covered container.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooling is Key: Always allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This ensures that the frosting doesn’t melt and slide off.
Proper Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Make Ahead: You can bake the cakes a day in advance. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to frost.
Frosting Texture: If your frosting is too thick, you can add a little milk to reach your desired consistency.

Change It Up

If you’re looking to personalize your Lemon Pistachio Cake, there are plenty of ways to make it unique! Here are some tips to consider:

Storage: Keep leftover cake in a covered container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s well wrapped to maintain moisture.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this cake! Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will keep for about 2 to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Pairing: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast to the cake’s flavors.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different fruits for layering, like raspberries or blueberries, for a different flavor profile.
Nut Alternatives: If you want to switch up the nuts, try using walnuts or almonds for a different taste.
More Zest: For an extra zing, consider adding more lemon zest or a bit of orange zest to the batter.

What to Serve Alongside Lemon Pistachio Cake

When it comes to serving your Lemon Pistachio Cake, there are endless possibilities to enhance the experience!

Fresh Berries: Pair with a medley of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries to complement the cake’s flavors and add a burst of freshness.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream on the side elevates the cake to a new level of indulgence.
Ice Cream: Vanilla or lemon sorbet can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake and make for a delightful dessert.
Tea or Coffee: Serve with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. The warmth and richness of these beverages pair beautifully with the cake.
Brunch Delight: This cake is also perfect for brunch gatherings. Serve it alongside a fruit platter and a selection of pastries for a delightful spread.
Celebration Centerpiece: Bring it to birthday parties or spring celebrations as a stunning centerpiece that everyone will rave about!

FAQ

The Lemon Pistachio Cake stands out due to its refreshing flavor profile, combining the zesty brightness of lemons with the nutty richness of pistachios. This cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes with its beautiful layers and vibrant colors. It’s perfect for any occasion, from spring gatherings to birthday celebrations, making it a versatile dessert option that everyone will love.

Absolutely! You can bake the Lemon Pistachio Cake a day in advance. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool completely, then wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the cake’s taste. Just frost it when you’re ready to serve!

To keep your Lemon Pistachio Cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to wrap the cake well to prevent it from drying out. This cake can stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you’re looking to extend its life, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They can last for about 2 to 3 months!

Yes! The frosting of the Lemon Pistachio Cake can be modified to your taste. You can make it with less sugar or add different flavors such as coconut or cream cheese for a richer taste. Additionally, you can experiment with various toppings like fresh berries or a simple dusting of powdered sugar to add your personal touch!

Conclusion

The Lemon Pistachio Cake is a delightful treat that brings a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a must-try for any dessert lover. Its unique combination of zesty lemon and rich pistachios creates a cake that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. I encourage you to gather your ingredients and try making this cake; you won’t be disappointed. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to bring joy to your table.