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A Light & Flavorful Dessert: Pistachio Lemon Olive Oil Cake Recipe
Light, tangy, and irresistibly nutty—this Pistachio Lemon Olive Oil Cake is everything you want in a dessert and more! It’s the perfect balance of sweet, zesty citrus and warm earthy flavors, with a moist texture that practically melts in your mouth.
Plus, it’s made with wholesome ingredients like extra virgin olive oil and pistachios, so it’s a treat you can feel good about baking. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a fun weekend project, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
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Why you’ll love this cake:
- Unique Flavor Pairing: Zesty lemon and rich pistachios create a taste that’s both fresh and indulgent.
- Healthier Ingredients: Made with olive oil instead of butter for a heart-healthy twist!
- Impressively Simple: Despite its gourmet vibe, this cake is surprisingly easy to make.
Get ready to preheat your oven—this pistachio cake recipe will be your new go-to dessert for any occasion!
Ingredients for Pistachio Lemon Olive Oil Cake
The secret to a stunning Pistachio Lemon Olive Oil Cake lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup finely ground pistachios (unsalted; you can blitz whole nuts in a food processor)
Wet Ingredients:
- ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
Tip: Use a fruity, high-quality olive oil for the best flavor. Look for oils labeled “cold-pressed” or “first press.”
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt (or substitute with sour cream for extra richness)
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2-3 tbsp)
For Garnish:
- Powdered sugar (optional)
- Chopped pistachios
- Lemon slices or zest curls
Optional Serving Suggestion: Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
How to Make Pistachio Lemon Olive Oil Cake
Step 1: Prep oven and pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with olive oil and line the bottom with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Combine dry ingredients
- Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
- Stir in the finely ground pistachios. These pistachios add both flavor and a delightful texture.
Step 3: Whisk wet ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together the olive oil, sugar, and eggs until smooth and well combined.
(Pro Tip): Use a handheld mixer for a light, fluffy batter!
- Add in the Greek yogurt, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whisk until the mixture is silky.
Step 4: Combine wet and dry ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, gently folding with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the cake tender.
Step 5: Bake the cake
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
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Tips & Tricks for Baking Success
Achieving the Perfect Texture:
- Don’t Overmix your batter. Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, which can make your cake denser than desired.
- Use room temperature eggs and yogurt for a smoother batter and even baking.
Variations to Try:
- Swap Pistachios with almonds or hazelnuts for a fun twist.
- Add a glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and lemon juice for an extra citrusy punch.
- Want it gluten-free? Substitute all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour (adjust baking time slightly).
Long-lasting Tips:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
This Pistachio Lemon Olive Oil Cake makes a statement all on its own but can be elevated with these serving ideas:
- Classic & Simple: Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
- Fruity Touch: Serve with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries.
- Ala Mode: Add a cool scoop of vanilla or pistachio ice cream for the ultimate indulgent experience.
It’s the perfect dessert for brunch, tea time, or as the spotlight of your next dinner party. Trust us—your guests will be asking for the recipe.
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Your Next Must-Bake Dessert is Here
Congratulations, you now have a dessert that is not only stunning but also packed with flavor and wholesome goodness. Whether you’re whipping it up for a special gathering or indulging solo with a hot cup of tea, this Pistachio Lemon Olive Oil Cake is guaranteed to delight.
We’d love to hear how your cake turned out! Share your baking adventure with us by leaving a comment below.
Happy baking, and may every slice bring you joy!
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Hello, my name is Mary. I’m a passionate food and drink enthusiast, sharing flavorful recipes, creative drinks, and culinary inspiration from around the world. With a love for exploring new tastes and traditions, I bring a mix of easy-to-follow guides and expert tips to make every meal an adventure. Follow along for delicious discoveries and a toast to positive living!