Pine nut & almond lemon cake

This Pine Nut & Almond Lemon Cake features a delightful blend of zesty lemon and nutty flavors, perfect for any occasion. Its moist texture comes from a combination of almond and pine nuts, creating a unique dessert experience.

11 Nov 2025
Cook time 50 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

2 cups self-raising flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup almonds
1 cup butter
2 tbsp lemon zest
3 eggs
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 cup pine nuts
Pine nut & almond lemon cake

Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Pine Nut & Almond Lemon Cake, a perfect treat that balances zesty citrus with the rich texture of nuts. Ideal for any occasion, this cake combines the nutty goodness of almonds and pine nuts with the refreshing zest of lemon, making it a truly unique and delicious dessert.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, combine the 2 cups of self-raising flour, 1 cup of sugar, and 1/2 cup of ground almonds. Mix well and set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Lemon Zest:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the 1 cup of softened butter with the 2 tablespoons of lemon zest until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the Eggs:
- Add the 3 eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Buttermilk and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the 1/2 cup of buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in Pine Nuts:
- Gently fold 3/4 cup of the pine nuts into the batter. Reserve the remaining 1/4 cup for the topping.
7. Transfer to Pan and Top with Pine Nuts:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved 1/4 cup of pine nuts over the top of the batter.
8. Bake the Cake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
9. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve. Enjoy your Pine Nut & Almond Lemon Cake!

With each bite of this Pine Nut & Almond Lemon Cake, you'll experience a delightful medley of textures and flavors. The zesty lemon zest, the richness of almonds, and the crunch of pine nuts come together to create a dessert that's both refreshing and satisfying. Follow these tips to ensure a perfect bake, and enjoy this cake as a delectable treat that will impress family and friends alike.

Pine nut & almond lemon cake FAQ:

What is the baking time for the Pine Nut & Almond Lemon Cake?

The cake should be baked in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Can I use a different pan size for this recipe?

This recipe is designed for a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan. Using a different size may alter the baking time; check for doneness a bit earlier or later if using a different pan.

How should I store the leftover cake?

Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it well and refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.

What can I substitute for buttermilk in this recipe?

You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of 1/2 cup milk plus 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

Tips:

- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.

- Toast the pine nuts and almonds lightly before adding them to the batter for an enhanced nutty flavor.

- Use freshly grated lemon zest to maximize the citrus aroma and taste.

- Mix the batter just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake.

- If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar.

Nutrition per serving

12 Servings
Calories 430kcal
Protein 8g
Carbohydrates 40g
Fiber 1.87g
Sugar 18g
Fat 27g

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