This Rosewater Pistachio Cardamom Cake is a celebration of subtle flavors and fragrant spices, combining the floral essence of rosewater with the rich nuttiness of pistachios and the warm spice of cardamom. Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious afternoon tea, this cake is both elegant and delicious, offering a unique taste experience that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of rosewater, pistachios, and cardamom creates a beautifully balanced cake with a distinct, aromatic flavor.
- Moist and Tender: The addition of yogurt ensures a moist and tender crumb, making every bite a delight.
- Stunning Presentation: With a sprinkle of crushed pistachios and a drizzle of rosewater glaze, this cake is as beautiful as it is tasty.
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons rosewater
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup pistachios, finely chopped
For the rosewater glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon rosewater
For garnish:
- 1/4 cup pistachios, roughly chopped
- Rose petals (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cardamom, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the yogurt, milk, rosewater, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the finely chopped pistachios.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Rosewater Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and rosewater until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
- Glaze and Garnish the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the rosewater glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides. Sprinkle with roughly chopped pistachios and, if desired, garnish with edible rose petals for an extra touch of elegance.
- Serve: Slice and serve the cake as a dessert or with tea or coffee. Enjoy the delicate flavors and moist texture.
Tips and Variations
- Adjust the Rosewater: Rosewater can be quite strong, so feel free to adjust the amount to your taste. Start with a small amount and add more if you prefer a stronger flavor.
- Add Lemon Zest: For a hint of citrus, add the zest of one lemon to the batter. This complements the rosewater and cardamom beautifully.
- Use Ground Almonds: If you don’t have almond flour, you can finely grind whole almonds in a food processor to use in the cake.
Storing the Cake
- Store: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
This Rosewater Pistachio Cardamom Cake is a sophisticated and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for those who appreciate the delicate, exotic flavors of Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or simply want to treat yourself, this cake is sure to delight your senses and leave a lasting impression. Enjoy the aromatic blend of rosewater, cardamom, and pistachios in every delicious bite!