Pistachio Orange Cake Recipe

Pistachio orange cake is a delicious dessert that combines the flavour of pistachios with oranges. It’s a unique and full-of-flavour treat that is perfect for any occasion. The pistachio gives the cake a nutty flavour and the fresh orange zest adds a tangy flavour.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pistachios
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of orange
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1/2 cup plain yoghurt or sour cream

For the glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
• Pistachios, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 175°C. Grease and flour a round cake pan.

In a blender, blend the pistachios until finely ground. Be careful not to over-process, or else you will end up with pistachio butter.

In a bowl, whisk together the ground pistachios, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat the eggs, until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the orange juice, and mix until smooth and well combined.

Add the yoghurt or sour cream until combined with the batter.

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly.

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the glaze:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and freshly squeezed orange juice until smooth.
2. Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top of the cake.
3. Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top of the glaze for garnish.
4. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.

Decoration

1. Orange Zest: Sprinkle freshly grated orange zest over the top of the cake for a burst of colour and citrus flavour.
2. Crushed Pistachios: Sprinkle chopped or crushed pistachios over the cake for added texture and a pop of green colour.
3. Orange Slices: Garnish the cake with slices of fresh orange for a beautiful and refreshing presentation.
4. Fresh Berries: Arrange a handful of fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, around the perimeter of the cake for a vibrant and colourful decoration.
5. Edible Flowers: Place a few edible flowers, such as pansies or violets, on top of the cake for a delicate and whimsical touch.
6. Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle chocolate ganache over the cake for a decorative finishing touch.

Variations of Pistachio Orange Cake

Pistachio Orange Loaf Cake: When the batter is poured into a loaf pan and then bake it for 45-50 minutes, you will have a delicious cake for breakfast or afternoon tea.

Gluten-Free Pistachio Orange Cake: Gluten-free flour and almonds make the cake gluten-free. For a dessert that won’t interfere with any of your dietary preferences, simply replace normal flour with gluten-free baking powder.

Vegan Pistachio Orange Cake: For a plant-based, vegan version of the dessert, replace butter with light olive oil and use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg) instead of eggs. Mix in almond milk for a plant-based version.

Orange Cream Cheese Frosting: For a rich topping, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar and orange zest – this tangy sweetness will soon become your favourite frosting.

Tips for the Perfect Pistachio Orange Cake

Fresh Oranges – For the best flavour, fresh orange juice and zest are essential — no store-bought juice can compete with that!

Do Not Overmix: Mixing the batter too well will yield a dense cake. A light and fluffy texture will result if mixed just until the ingredients are combined.

Bring to Room Temperature: Your butter and eggs should be at room temperature for optimal mixing, so put them on the counter.

Chill the Cake: For easier cutting and a neater appearance, chill the cake for 30 minutes in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

Pistachio orange cake is a delightful blend of flavours that will fulfil your taste buds. With its pistachio and zesty orange flavour, it’s a unique and delicious treat. Whether serving it for a special event or enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, this cake will surely be a hit.