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Pistachio Cherry Loaf Cake with Almond Buttercream

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Pistachio Cherry Loaf Cake with Almond Buttercream is a moist, tender loaf that combines the rich nuttiness of pistachios with sweet-tart cherries, topped with a smooth almond buttercream for an elegant and flavorful dessert.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup ground pistachios or pistachio flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk or buttermilk
  • 1 tsp almond extract
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 4 oz cream cheese or 1/2 cup butter (for buttercream)
  • 1/2 tsp almond extract (for buttercream)
  • 2 tbsp slivered almonds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, pistachio flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in almond extract.
  5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, mixing just until combined.
  6. Toss cherries in a little flour, then gently fold into the batter.
  7. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  8. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  9. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack.
  10. For the buttercream, beat softened cream cheese or butter with powdered sugar and almond extract until smooth and fluffy.
  11. Spread almond buttercream over the cooled loaf. Garnish with slivered almonds if desired.

Notes

  • Use dried cherries for a more intense flavor.
  • Add citrus zest to the batter for a bright twist.
  • Top with a cherry glaze instead of buttercream for a lighter finish.
  • Fold in chopped white chocolate for extra richness.
  • Freeze unfrosted loaf for up to 2 months.

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