Description

A fragrant, nutty, and citrusy tea cake that combines the warmth of cardamom, brightness of orange, and crunch of pistachios — perfect for cozy afternoons or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cardamom (preferably freshly ground)
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup sugar (granulated or light brown)
2 large eggs, room temperature
½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1 tbsp orange zest
¾ cup chopped pistachios (lightly toasted)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cardamom.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in orange zest and orange juice.
Alternately add dry ingredients and yogurt (or sour cream) into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
Fold in chopped pistachios, reserving a few for topping if desired.
Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Top with orange glaze, candied orange slices, or powdered sugar and extra pistachios before serving.

Notes

For added moisture and flavor, brush the warm loaf with a simple syrup made from equal parts orange juice and sugar. Store tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 280
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 160mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: cardamom, orange, pistachio, tea cake, citrus loaf, spiced dessert