Name: Pistachio and Orange Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 175g salted butter, softened (plus extra for greasing); 175g golden caster sugar; Zest of 3 blood oranges; 3 blood oranges, juiced; 3 eggs, beaten; 100g natural yogurt; 100g pistachios, ground to crumbs; 180g self-raising flour; 1 tsp baking powder; A small pinch of salt; 50g golden caster sugar; Extra chopped pistachios for decorating

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 83 reviews

If you’re looking for a cake that brings together vibrant citrus with the rich, nutty crunch of pistachios, this Pistachio and Orange Cake Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Bright blood orange zest and juice infuse the batter with uplifting notes, while ground pistachios add a tender crumb and subtle texture, making every bite a harmonious delight. It’s a perfect treat for any occasion, offering a fresh twist on classic flavors that will have you reaching for seconds before you know it.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a top view of seven small white bowls arranged on a white marbled surface. There are two brown eggs in one bowl with a smooth texture and natural shine. Another bowl holds green and brown chopped nuts, showing rough and uneven pieces. A third bowl contains light brown sugar with a crumbly texture that looks soft. The fourth bowl is filled with bright yellow cornmeal, with a fine and grainy texture. There are three small clear glass bowls; one has glossy red sauce, another holds a small slab of pale yellow butter with a smooth surface, and the last bowl contains white sour cream with a creamy texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays an essential role in crafting the moist, flavorful, and beautifully textured cake you’re about to enjoy. From the creamy butter to the zingy orange elements and the earthy pistachios, every addition makes a difference.

175g salted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture while balancing sweetness perfectly.

175g golden caster sugar: Provides gentle sweetness that caramelizes slightly during baking.
Zest and juice of 3 blood oranges: Bring vibrant citrus aroma and bright, fresh flavor.
3 eggs, beaten: Help bind the ingredients and add structure to the cake.

100g natural yogurt: Keeps the crumb tender and adds subtle tanginess.
100g pistachios, ground to crumbs: Impart nuttiness and texture throughout the cake.
180g self-raising flour: Provides the necessary lift and body.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Works with the flour to give a light and airy crumb.

50g golden caster sugar (for syrup): Sweetens the orange syrup glaze beautifully.

How to Make Pistachio and Orange Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Batter

First things first, heat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or gas mark 4. Butter and line a 20cm square cake tin with baking paper—this ensures your cake comes out smoothly without sticking. Beat the softened butter with the golden caster sugar and the fragrant orange zest in a large bowl. Use an electric whisk for around 5-6 minutes until the mixture turns pale, light, and fluffy. This step creates that wonderfully airy texture in the final cake.

Step 2: Adding Eggs and Yogurt

Next, carefully add the beaten eggs a tablespoon at a time into the butter and sugar mixture. Whisk steadily after each addition to keep the batter smooth and avoid curdling. Folding in the natural yogurt now will keep your cake moist and tender—it brightens the flavors subtly without overpowering them.

Step 3: Incorporating Pistachios and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the ground pistachios into the batter; these add delightful nuttiness and texture. Then sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, and a small pinch of salt. Sifting ensures your cake stays light and prevents lumps. Carefully fold these dry ingredients into the wet mix until just combined—overmixing can make the cake dense, so gentle is the way to go here.

Step 4: Baking and Syrup Infusion

Pour the smooth batter into your prepared tin and smooth the top for an even bake. Pop it into the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. While the cake rests in the tin for 10 minutes after baking, prepare a fragrant syrup by simmering sugar and fresh blood orange juice. This syrup brings a moist, glossy finish bursting with citrus flavor.

Step 5: Applying the Syrup and Cooling

Use a skewer to poke holes all over the warm cake, then slowly drizzle the orange syrup over it, allowing the cake to soak it up perfectly. After about 10 minutes, transfer the cake onto a wire rack and generously brush with any remaining syrup to ensure every bite is juicy and flavorful.

Step 6: Final Decoration

Once the cake is completely cool, sprinkle generously with chopped pistachios. This final touch not only enhances the look but adds a lovely crunch that complements the moist interior.

How to Serve Pistachio and Orange Cake Recipe

A square golden brown cake with a rough texture is topped with chopped green pistachios spread evenly across the surface. Three pieces have been cut from the cake showing a soft and moist interior with a light greenish tone. The cake sits on a white wooden board that has some pistachio bits scattered around it. In the background, there is a white teapot and a white cup filled halfway with light brown tea or coffee. A small white bowl with more chopped pistachios is placed beside the cake on a white marbled background with a pink cloth and a white plate with a fork nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar or a few extra chopped pistachios make for perfect finishing touches, enhancing both appearance and texture. Some thin orange slices or candied peel can add an elegant flourish and amplify the citrus charm.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for indulgence. If you prefer, a spoonful of Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey complements the nutty and citrus flavors with creamy sweetness and tang.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve slices on rustic wooden boards for a charmingly cozy feel or stack smaller squares layered between fresh orange segments for an attractive dessert platter. You can also jazz it up by creating mini versions in muffin tins for individual treats that are perfect for parties or picnics.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, keep your Pistachio and Orange Cake Recipe wrapped tightly in cling film or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain moisture and freshness.

Freezing

This cake freezes well—wrap it carefully in foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving, then refresh the syrup glaze if desired.

Reheating

If you like warm cake, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in a low oven (around 150°C) for 5-7 minutes. This brings back the aromas and makes the cake wonderfully soft and inviting.

FAQs

Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?

Absolutely! Regular oranges will work perfectly and provide lovely citrus flavor, though blood oranges add a beautiful color and slightly deeper flavor that makes this cake so special.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for the natural yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a great alternative and will keep the cake moist and tangy. Just make sure it’s plain and unsweetened for the best results.

What’s the best way to grind pistachios for this recipe?

Using a food processor works best to get fine crumbs without turning the pistachios into a paste. Pulse gently and stop once you have small crumbs for even texture.

Is it necessary to use self-raising flour?

Self-raising flour is recommended because it already contains baking powder. If you only have plain flour, simply add 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder to replace it.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can experiment using a gluten-free self-raising flour blend, but be aware that texture and rise may vary. Pistachios and orange flavors will still shine beautifully!

Final Thoughts

This Pistachio and Orange Cake Recipe is one of those joyful baking projects that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas and rewards you with slices of sunshine and crunch. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a cozy afternoon tea, or simply to treat yourself, this cake never disappoints. Dive in and enjoy every vibrant, nutty bite—you’re going to love it!

Pistachio and Orange Cake Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need