Lemon Pistachio Cake with Lovely Lemon Frosting

Lemon pistachio cake with a lovely lemon frosting is a perfect balance of bright, citrusy flavors and nutty richness. This cake combines roasted pistachios with the delicate texture of almond and oat flours to create a gluten-free delight that is both moist and flavorful. The zesty lemon cake pairs beautifully with a creamy lemon frosting, creating a treat that’s both refreshing and indulgent. It’s the ideal dessert for any occasion, from casual gatherings to more formal celebrations, offering a unique twist on classic cake flavors. The addition of low-sugar strawberry jam and fresh berries brings a burst of sweetness and color, making each slice a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free dessert or simply something deliciously different, this lemon pistachio cake is sure to become a favorite. Its combination of textures and flavors will delight lemon lovers and those who appreciate the rich, earthy taste of pistachios. Light yet indulgent, this cake is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Pistachio Cake

1. Perfect Balance of Flavors

The citrusy lemon and earthy pistachio flavors pair beautifully, creating a cake that’s both refreshing and rich at the same time.

2. Gluten-Free Option

With almond flour and oat flour as key ingredients, this cake can be made gluten-free, making it a versatile dessert for those with dietary restrictions.

3. Moist and Nutritious

The combination of Greek yogurt and fresh lemon juice creates a moist cake, while pistachios add healthy fats, making this a slightly more nutritious dessert.

4. Easy-to-Make

Despite its gourmet appearance, this cake is straightforward to make, with simple steps and easily accessible ingredients.

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5. Customizable Toppings

You can personalize the cake by using your favorite berries or substituting the strawberry jam for other fruit jams, like blueberry or raspberry, to change up the flavors.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup roasted shelled pistachios
• 1 ½ cups fine blanched almond flour
• 1 cup oat flour (gluten-free if desired)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Wet Ingredients:

• Zest from 2 large lemons
• 1 cup granulated sugar (organic cane sugar recommended)
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• ½ cup plain or vanilla whole-milk Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon almond extract

For the Cake:

• 1 batch Lovely Lemon Frosting
• 6 tablespoons low-sugar strawberry jam (or substitute with blueberry jam)
• Fresh strawberries (or berries of your choice), for topping

Variations

This cake is easily adaptable to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Nuts: While pistachios are the star of this cake, you can substitute with other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
• Vegan: To make this cake vegan, use flax eggs or aquafaba in place of the eggs and substitute dairy-free yogurt for the Greek yogurt.
• Citrus Variations: Swap lemon for other citrus fruits like orange or lime for a fresh twist on the flavor.
• Frosting: If you prefer a less tangy frosting, you can substitute lemon frosting with a simple vanilla buttercream or cream cheese frosting.

How to Make Lemon Pistachio Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pistachios

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pistachios on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, until they are slightly golden. Allow them to cool before grinding them into a coarse meal in a food processor.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted pistachio meal, almond flour, oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. Stir together and set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, sugar, eggs, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and almond extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and fold gently until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the batter to ensure a light and airy texture.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased and lined 9-inch round cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Frost

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, spread the Lovely Lemon Frosting evenly on top of the cake.

Step 7: Add Jam and Berries

Once the frosting is applied, gently spread the low-sugar strawberry jam on top. Add fresh berries of your choice for a beautiful finishing touch.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Be sure to use room temperature eggs and yogurt for the best texture and even mixing.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake. Mix until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Roasting Pistachios: Roasting pistachios enhances their flavor, but be sure to watch them closely in the oven to prevent burning.
• Chill the Cake Before Frosting: For a cleaner finish, chill the cake in the refrigerator for a few minutes before applying the frosting.
• Use a Serrated Knife: When cutting the cake, use a serrated knife to avoid squishing the delicate layers.

How to Serve

This lemon pistachio cake is perfect for serving at tea parties, family gatherings, or any special occasion. Serve slices with a side of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. For a more casual presentation, you can serve it without any toppings, letting the rich flavors of the cake and frosting stand on their own. The cake also pairs beautifully with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a refreshing glass of lemonade.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store it for a longer period, refrigerate it for up to a week.

Freezing

This cake freezes well. After frosting, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Reheating

To reheat individual slices, microwave them for 10-15 seconds. If you want to warm the entire cake, cover it loosely with foil and heat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of flour?

You can substitute the oat flour with another gluten-free flour blend if necessary, though oat flour gives the cake a nice texture and flavor.

2. Can I use dairy-free yogurt?

Yes, dairy-free yogurt can be used in place of the whole-milk Greek yogurt if you’re looking for a dairy-free version of this cake.

3. What other nuts can I use besides pistachios?

Almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts can be used in place of pistachios for a different nutty flavor.

4. How do I make the cake more lemony?

For an extra lemony kick, you can add more lemon zest or even a few drops of lemon extract to the batter.

5. Can I make this cake without the frosting?

Yes, you can skip the frosting if you prefer a simpler cake. It’s still delicious on its own!

6. How do I store leftover frosting?

Leftover frosting can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

7. Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, the lemon frosting can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

8. Can I use a different jam for the topping?

Yes, you can substitute the strawberry jam with blueberry, raspberry, or any jam you prefer.

9. How can I tell when the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

10. Can I use a different fruit for the topping?

Yes, you can use any fresh berries or even thinly sliced fruits like kiwi or peaches for a lovely topping.

Conclusion

Lemon pistachio cake with lovely lemon frosting is a show-stopping dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. With its bright lemon flavor and the nutty richness of pistachios, this cake offers a refreshing twist on traditional cake recipes. Whether you enjoy it for a special celebration or as a treat to share with loved ones, this cake is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, customizable, and the perfect balance of light and indulgent. Give it a try, and you’ll have a new favorite dessert to add to your repertoire!

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