Luscious Pistachio Lemon Delight Cake: A Citrusy Spin on Traditional Flavors

This Luscious Pistachio Lemon Delight Cake blends the earthy crunch of pistachios with the bright zest of lemon, creating a refreshing and sophisticated dessert. Featuring a moist pistachio-infused cake base and topped with a creamy, tangy frosting, this cake is a perfect balance of nutty and citrus notes. Optional matcha powder adds a subtle depth of flavor and a hint of color, making this cake as beautiful as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Cake:

1. Unique Flavor Combination: The nutty pistachios paired with vibrant lemon create a delightful taste experience.
2. Moist and Tender: The cake’s texture is incredibly soft and moist, thanks to the full-fat yogurt and olive oil.
3. Versatile for Many Occasions: Whether it’s a casual tea time or a festive gathering, this cake fits perfectly.

Perfect Occasion: This cake is ideal for spring and summer gatherings, such as garden parties, Easter celebrations, or simply as a refreshing dessert after a family dinner. It’s also a great choice for birthdays and other celebrations for those who appreciate a less traditional cake flavor.

Decoration Tips:

• Garnish with crushed pistachios sprinkled over the top for added texture and a pop of color.
• Add thin lemon slices or zest swirls atop the frosting for a decorative touch that hints at the citrus flavor inside.
• Serve each slice on a plate drizzled with a little lemon glaze for an extra zesty finish.

Ingredients:

• Pistachio Cake Batter:
  • 142g all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon green tea powder (optional)
  • 120g granulated sugar
  • 40g finely ground pistachios
  • 60ml olive oil
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 120ml full-fat yogurt
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 60ml milk, room temperature
  • 5ml pure vanilla extract
• Cream Cheese Frosting:
  • 125g cream cheese, softened
  • 160ml whipping cream
  • 35g granulated sugar
  • 5ml lemon juice
  • 5ml pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch square baking pan by lining it with parchment paper.
2. For the cake batter, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and green tea powder (if using) into a large bowl. Stir in the sugar and ground pistachios.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, egg, yogurt, lemon zest, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, folding gently just until the batter is homogeneous and free of dry spots.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean from the center. Allow cooling in the pan for 20 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
6. For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese with a small amount of the cream until smooth. Gradually add the rest of the cream, beating until soft peaks form. Incorporate the sugar, then the lemon juice and vanilla, beating until the frosting is thick yet spreadable.
7. Once the cake is completely cooled, frost it generously, then sprinkle with crushed pistachios.

Enjoy this refreshing and sophisticated Pistachio Lemon Delight Cake, a true celebration of flavor and texture!