Decadent Pistachio Coffee Cake

Name: Decadent Pistachio Coffee Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup ground pistachios; 1 cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup chopped pistachios; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience a delightful twist on your morning treat with this Decadent Pistachio Coffee Cake. Moist and fluffy, this rich cake features a nutty pistachio flavor complemented by a crunchy streusel topping, making it the perfect accompaniment to your coffee or tea. Treat yourself and your loved ones with this mouthwatering dessert, ideal for brunches, gatherings, or simply as a sweet indulgence any time of the day.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2025-11-26T12:52:52.988Z

This coffee cake is not just a morning treat; it's an experience. The combination of pistachios and coffee results in a cake that is uniquely flavorful and visually appealing.

The Perfect Pairing for Your Coffee

Imagine settling in with a warm cup of coffee, the aroma enveloping you. Now, picture a slice of Decadent Pistachio Coffee Cake beside it. This cake not only enhances your coffee experience but also transforms it into a moment of indulgence. The nutty undertones of pistachio blend harmoniously with the richness of your brew, making every bite as exhilarating as the first sip.

Whether you're starting your day or enjoying an afternoon break, this cake offers a delightful contrast to the bitterness of coffee. Its moist texture and sweet topping create the ideal balance, ensuring that your coffee-loving heart is satisfied. Share it with friends, and watch as they revel in this experience, ultimately enhancing your gatherings, brunches, or solitary moments of joy.

A Treat for Every Occasion

The versatility of this Decadent Pistachio Coffee Cake makes it perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a brunch, celebrating a special milestone, or simply wanting to bring a touch of sweetness to an ordinary day, this cake fits the bill. It's easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, making it an instant favorite among your circle.

You can serve it as a delightful breakfast item or a charming dessert, striking the right balance for every palate. Picture it at your next gathering – a centerpiece that sparks conversation and admiration. Its vibrant green hues from the pistachios aren't just a treat for the taste buds; they're also visually delightful, making your spread incredibly inviting.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Decadent Pistachio Coffee Cake turns out perfectly every time, a few baking tips can go a long way. First, make sure your butter is properly softened; this helps create the light and fluffy texture you're aiming for. Avoid using melted butter in the creaming stage, as this can hinder the aeration process essential for achieving a rise in your cake.

Remember to measure your ingredients accurately, especially the flour, as too much can lead to a dense cake. Utilizing a kitchen scale can provide precision if you have one on hand. Lastly, allow the cake to cool in its pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This step prevents it from breaking apart, ensuring it retains its beautiful shape and remains deliciously moist.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup ground pistachios
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Streusel Topping

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup chopped pistachios
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Mix and prepare the ingredients before you start baking for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Make the Cake Batter

In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground pistachios. Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture alternately with the sour cream and vanilla.

Prepare the Streusel

In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, melted butter, chopped pistachios, and ground cinnamon until crumbly.

Combine and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious coffee cake with coffee or tea!

Let the cake cool completely before slicing for a cleaner cut.

Nutritional Benefits

Pistachios not only add flavor but also provide nutritional benefits to this coffee cake. They're packed with protein, healthy fats, and important vitamins and minerals like vitamin B6 and phosphorus. Incorporating them into your diet can help lower cholesterol levels and support heart health.

Alongside the pistachios, sour cream contributes to the cake’s moistness while providing calcium and beneficial probiotics. This makes each slice not just a treat for your palate, but also a delightful way to incorporate wholesome ingredients into your dessert.

Storing Your Coffee Cake

To keep your Decadent Pistachio Coffee Cake fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it; just be sure to allow it to come to room temperature when ready to serve, as this enhances the flavors.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw the slice at room temperature or heat it up slightly in the microwave for a warm, fresh experience.

Customizing Your Coffee Cake

While the Decadent Pistachio Coffee Cake is delightful as is, there are numerous ways to customize it to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding a layer of chocolate chips or dried fruit, such as cranberries or apricots, for added flavor complexity. A touch of orange zest can also brighten the cake, adding a refreshing twist to each bite.

You can experiment with different nuts for the streusel topping, using almonds or walnuts instead of pistachios, depending on what you have available. These variations allow you to adapt this delightful recipe according to the season or your personal cravings, ensuring it remains a consistent favorite at your table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts?

Yes, you can substitute pistachios with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.