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Irresistible Flourless Lemon Pistachio Cake — Easy Gluten-Free Dessert Recipe

4.9 from 68 reviews

This Flourless Lemon Pistachio Cake is a delightful gluten-free dessert bursting with fresh lemon flavor and crunchy pistachios. Moist and tender with a tangy lemon syrup glaze, this easy-to-make cake is perfect for gatherings or a special treat, showcasing the natural richness of almond flour and zesty citrus.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Batter

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • ½ cup melted butter or olive oil
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup chopped pistachios

Lemon Syrup & Garnish

  • ½ cup lemon juice
  • ⅓ cup sugar
  • More chopped pistachios for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal to ensure your cake releases smoothly after baking.
  2. Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs together with the sugar until well combined and smooth. Stir in the melted butter (or olive oil), fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until the mixture is uniform.
  3. Add dry ingredients: Gradually add almond flour, baking powder, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until the batter is even and free of lumps, forming a smooth consistency.
  4. Fold in pistachios: Gently fold the chopped pistachios into the batter to distribute them evenly without over-mixing.
  5. Transfer and bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set with a slight jiggle.
  6. Prepare lemon syrup: While the cake is still warm, combine lemon juice and sugar in a small saucepan. Heat gently, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely to make a syrup.
  7. Glaze the cake: Spoon or drizzle the warm lemon syrup evenly over the top of the cake, allowing it to soak in and add moisture and tanginess.
  8. Garnish and cool: Sprinkle extra chopped pistachios over the glazed cake. Allow the cake to cool completely to set the texture before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute melted butter with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
  • To enhance flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest from unwaxed lemons.
  • Ensure the cake is fully cooled before slicing to avoid crumbling.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
  • This cake is naturally gluten-free due to almond flour but always check labels if allergies are a concern.

Keywords: Flourless cake, Lemon pistachio cake, Gluten-free dessert, Almond flour cake, Lemon dessert, Pistachio cake