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Lemon Pistachio Cake

Lemon Pistachio Cake: A Light and Lush Spring Treat

This delightful Lemon Pistachio Cake brings together the bright flavors of lemon and the crunchy texture of pistachios for a perfect spring dessert.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: DESSERTS
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Substitution: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour blend.
  • 1 tsp Baking Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Baking Soda
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • 1 tbsp Matcha Powder (optional) Substitution: Omit if unavailable.
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1/2 cup Finely Ground Roasted Salted Pistachios Make your own by grinding whole roasted pistachios.
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil (or other neutral oil) Substitution: Canola or sunflower oil work, but avoid coconut oil for a crumbly texture.
  • 1 large Egg
  • 1/2 cup Plain Yogurt (full fat) Substitution: Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used; may alter texture slightly.
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Zest
  • 1/2 cup Whole Milk
  • 1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract
  • 1/2 tsp Pure Almond Extract
For Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese
  • 2 tbsp Heavy Whipping Cream
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

Equipment

  • 8x8-inch metal baking pan
  • large bowl
  • whisk
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
  2. Prepare Batter: Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, matcha powder (if using), and salt in a large bowl.
  3. Mix Dry with Sugar: Whisk in the granulated sugar and finely ground pistachios until well combined.
  4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the olive oil, large egg, plain yogurt, lemon zest, whole milk, and both extracts until smooth.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture to create a smooth batter, careful not to over-mix.
  6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 20-25 minutes. The cake is done when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  8. Make Frosting: Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream and mix until combined. Gradually add the rest of the whipping cream and sugar, beating until soft peaks form. Mix in fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract until well combined.
  9. Frost Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the fluffy cream cheese frosting on top. Finish with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for a beautiful presentation.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 43gProtein: 5gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftover Lemon Pistachio Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days for optimal freshness.

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