Pistachio Cake with Rose Water

Name: Pistachio Cake with Rose Water
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted pistachios, shelled and finely ground; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1/4 cup rose water; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons rose water; 1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed); Chopped pistachios for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Collection

I’ve always been enchanted by the delicate flavor of rose water, and pairing it with pistachios makes for a delightful cake that is simply out of this world. This Pistachio Cake with Rose Water has quickly become a family favorite. The light, nutty flavor of the pistachios combined with the floral undertones of the rose water create a cake that's both refreshing and indulgent. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it's a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration. You’ll surely impress your guests with this elegant treat!

Created by

Nola Patterson

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:21:36.271Z

During my last baking adventure, I decided to explore an often-overlooked flavor: rose water. After testing several versions, I found that incorporating finely ground pistachios not only enhanced the flavor but also added a beautiful green hue to the cake. It was a true testament to how simple ingredients can come together to elevate a dish.

The secret to achieving an airy texture lies in beating the eggs until they are light and fluffy. This is crucial because it helps the cake rise beautifully. Trust me; your Pistachio Cake with Rose Water will be the star of the dessert table!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Unique flavor profile that combines nutty and floral notes
Moist and tender texture that melts in your mouth
Stunning presentation perfect for special occasions

      

Understanding Key Ingredients

The combination of pistachios and rose water is essential to this cake's unique flavor. The finely ground pistachios not only add a lovely nutty taste but also contribute to the cake's moisture and rich texture. It's important to ensure that the pistachios are ground finely; a food processor or spice grinder works best for achieving the right consistency. Avoid using pre-ground pistachio flour if possible, as it may have lost some freshness and flavor, diminishing the cake's overall impact.

Rose water brings in a floral essence that is both refreshing and aromatic. When adding rose water, start with 1/4 cup as specified, but don't hesitate to adjust based on your taste preference. Lower-quality rose water can be overly perfumed, so opting for a high-quality product can significantly enhance the cake's final taste. This ingredient not only delights the palate but also infuses the kitchen with a beautiful scent while baking, creating an inviting atmosphere.

Baking and Frosting Techniques

Baking the cake at 350°F (175°C) ensures an even rise and prevents overbaking, which can lead to a dry cake. Keep an eye on the cake around the 30-minute mark. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, indicating it’s perfectly done. If you bake it too long, the edges can become overly brown and tough, so knowing your oven's quirks is crucial for success.

When preparing the frosting, make sure the butter is at room temperature to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency. If it's too cold, the powdered sugar won't incorporate well, leading to lumps. Gradually adding milk can help you achieve the desired thickness, especially if you want to pipe the frosting elegantly. For a decorative touch, reserve some chopped pistachios to sprinkle on top once frosted, which not only enhances presentation but also adds an extra crunch in each bite.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

1 cup unsalted pistachios, shelled and finely ground
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/4 cup rose water
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons rose water
1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed)
Chopped pistachios for garnish

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the ground pistachios, flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Flavors

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in rose water and vanilla extract.

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Make the Frosting

While the cake cools, prepare the frosting by beating the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, rose water, and as much milk as needed to achieve desired consistency.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, frost it with the rose water frosting and garnish with chopped pistachios.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and serve to your friends and family. Enjoy the delightful flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of edible rose petals as a garnish!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This cake can be made ahead of time, which is convenient for gatherings. Once frosted, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, but be cautious as refrigeration can sometimes dry out cakes. If refrigerating, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain moisture. To enjoy later, you can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to a month. Just make sure it is completely cool before wrapping it in foil and placing it in a freezer-safe bag.

If freezing, to serve, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and frost before presenting. Alternately, you can serve the cake plain and frost individual slices as desired. This ensures each piece has fresh frosting and a delightful visual appeal. Keeping the components separate until serving can also maintain the cake’s texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate your pistachio cake experience, consider serving it with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess complements the nutty and floral flavors beautifully. Additionally, pairing slices with fresh berries adds a burst of acidity that can balance the sweetness of the cake, making each bite more refreshing.

For those looking to switch things up, you can experiment with flavors by infusing the cake batter with almond extract or citrus zest like lemon or orange. These alterations will adjust the flavor profile while maintaining the original essence of the cake. Adding dried rose petals can also be a visually stunning and flavorful touch—the petals can be incorporated into the batter or used as a garnish, enhancing both taste and appearance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use roasted pistachios?

Yes, roasted pistachios will add a deeper flavor to the cake.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is there a substitute for rose water?

Yes, you can use orange blossom water as an alternative.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake and frost the cake a day in advance; just store it in the refrigerator.