Pistachio cake with honey icing

This Pistachio Cake with Honey Icing features a delightful combination of zesty lemon, spicy ginger, and sweet honey, creating a refreshing dessert. Perfect for any occasion, it's easy to make and impresses with its unique flavors.

20 Jan 2026
Cook time 60 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

2/3 cup butter
1/3 cup pistachio nuts
1 cup sugar
3 eggs
2 cups self-raising flour
1 cup buttermilk
2 tbsp lemon zest
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp ginger
1 cup cream cheese
1/3 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp honey
Pistachio cake with honey icing

This delightful Pistachio Cake with Honey Icing is a perfect blend of zesty lemon, spicy ginger, and sweet honey. It's an elegant dessert that's both refreshing and satisfying, making it ideal for any occasion. Whether you're an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and guaranteed to impress.

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line a 9-inch (23cm) round cake tin with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Sift in the self-raising flour and fold it gently into the mixture. Do not overmix.
- Pour in the buttermilk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and ground ginger, and stir until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped pistachio nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Honey Icing:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until fully incorporated.
- Add the honey and mix until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the honey icing evenly over the top using a spatula.
- Optionally, you can sprinkle some more chopped pistachio nuts or lemon zest over the icing for garnish.
6. Serve:
- Slice and serve the cake at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Pistachio Cake with Honey Icing!

With its vibrant flavors and beautiful honey icing, this Pistachio Cake is sure to be a hit. The combination of lemon and ginger creates a unique taste experience, while the honey icing adds a lovely touch of sweetness. Perfect for afternoon tea or as a show-stopping dessert for your next get-together, this cake is both delicious and visually appealing. Enjoy the compliments as your guests savor every bite!

Pistachio cake with honey icing FAQ:

What is the baking time for the Pistachio Cake?

The Pistachio Cake should be baked for 30-35 minutes at 350°F (175°C). To check for doneness, insert a skewer into the center; it should come out clean.

How should I store the Pistachio Cake?

Store the Pistachio Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.

Can I substitute buttermilk in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of 1 cup of milk and 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes to sour before using.

How can I ensure my cake doesn't dry out?

To prevent your cake from drying out, avoid overmixing the batter and ensure you do not bake it longer than the recommended time. Also, allowing it to cool initially in the tin helps retain moisture.

What can I use instead of cream cheese for the icing?

If you want a different icing, you can use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly. Consider adjusting the sweetness based on the alternative used.

Tips:

- Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results.

- Toast the pistachio nuts lightly before incorporating them into the batter for added flavor.

- Do not overmix the batter; it should be smooth, but overmixing can cause the cake to be dense.

- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest, most authentic flavor.

- When adding the honey to the icing, do so slowly and taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness.

- Chill the cake before serving to let the flavors meld and to make it easier to slice.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 530kcal
Protein 11g
Carbohydrates 63g
Fiber 1.86g
Sugar 36g
Fat 24g

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