French Pistachio Cake

This French Pistachio Cake is a delicate, moist, and nutty dessert with a sophisticated flavor. It’s perfect for tea time or as an elegant finish to a meal. Here’s a classic recipe:

Table of Contents

French Pistachio Cake (Gâteau Pistache)

*Makes a 9-inch (23 cm) cake*

Ingredients:

1 cup (120g) shelled pistachios (unsalted, preferably raw)
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

3 large eggs, room temperature
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk

1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract (optional, enhances nuttiness)
Green food coloring (optional, for a vibrant hue)

Optional Glaze (for decoration):

1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
1-2 tbsp lemon juice or milk
Crushed pistachios for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pistachio Paste:

In a food processor, grind 1 cup pistachios with 2 tbsp sugar until finely ground (be careful not to over-process into butter). Set aside.

2. Make the Cake Batter:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, cream butter and remaining sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla and almond extract.
In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

Fold in the ground pistachio mixture. For a green hue, add a few drops of food coloring.

3. Bake:

Pour batter into the pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

4. Glaze & Garnish (Optional):

Whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice/milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Sprinkle with crushed pistachios for crunch.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy with whipped cream, raspberry coulis, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Pairs beautifully with tea or dessert wine.

This cake is subtly sweet with a rich pistachio flavor—a true French delight! Let me know if you’d like variations (like adding almond flour or a pistachio cream filling). 😊