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Pistachio lemon loaf cake

Pistachio Lemon Loaf Cake

This moist and zesty Pistachio Lemon Loaf Cake blends nutty pistachios with bright lemon flavor, topped with a sweet lemon glaze. Perfect with tea or as a light dessert!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Cooling & Glazing Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10 slices
Calories 230 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x5-inch loaf pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Whisk
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

Pistachio Lemon Loaf Cake

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup ground pistachios or finely chopped unsalted pistachios
  • 1.5 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1/2 cup olive oil or melted butter
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt for dairy-free
  • 1 lemon juice and zest
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Lemon Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp chopped pistachios for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving overhangs for easy removal.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ground pistachios, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, olive oil, yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  • Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Stir only until just combined to avoid overmixing.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  • Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth and glossy. Adjust consistency if needed.
  • Once the loaf is cool, drizzle with lemon glaze and sprinkle with chopped pistachios if desired. Let glaze set before slicing.

Notes

For a dairy-free option, use plant-based yogurt. You can also substitute melted butter for olive oil depending on preference.
Keyword Lemon, Loaf Cake, Pistachio