Name: Lemon Pistachio Cake with Matcha Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (142g) all purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp baking soda; ¼ tsp salt; 1 tsp matcha powder; ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar; ⅓ cup (40g) finely ground roasted salted pistachios; ¼ cup (60ml) olive oil (or any neutral liquid oil like canola, vegetable or sunflower oil); 1 large egg (at room temperature); ½ cup (120ml) full fat plain yogurt; 1 tbsp lemon zest; ¼ cup (60ml) whole milk (at room temperature); ½ tsp (5ml) pure vanilla extract; ¼ tsp pure almond extract; ½ cup (125g) very soft cream cheese; ⅔ cup (160ml) 35% heavy whipping cream; 4 tbsp (50g) granulated sugar; 1 tsp (5ml) fresh lemon juice; ½ tsp pure vanilla extract

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that brightens up your day and satisfies your sweet tooth in the most delightful way, the Lemon Pistachio Cake with Matcha Frosting Recipe is here to steal your heart. This cake effortlessly combines zesty lemon, nutty pistachios, and the subtle earthy notes of matcha in the frosting, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Moist, tender cake layers are enriched by a luscious, creamy matcha frosting, making every bite feel like a celebration. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this recipe brings sunshine and elegance effortlessly to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows various cooking ingredients neatly placed on a white marbled surface. There are nine clear glass bowls and containers arranged around a single brown egg and a small dark bottle. Starting from top left and moving clockwise, a bowl contains crushed pistachios with a coarse texture, followed by a bowl of milk which appears smooth and white. Next, there is a larger bowl filled with thick white yogurt that looks creamy. A smaller bowl beside it holds three white powders with fine texture, likely baking agents. Below the powders and to the right is a dark glass bottle, probably vanilla extract. Below the egg is a bowl filled with white granulated sugar that looks fine and sparkly. Further to the left, a glass container with yellow oil gleams from the light reflection. Moving upwards, a medium bowl holds white flour with a slightly uneven surface. In the center is a small clear bowl with bright green powder, likely matcha, with a fine texture. Finally, directly above the green powder is a tiny bowl illustrating bright yellow lemon zest, shredded finely. The items are arranged carefully in a balanced layout that highlights each ingredient clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this cake lies in a well-curated selection of ingredients that are simple yet essential. Each one plays a crucial role — from the flour lending structure, to the pistachios adding crunch and depth, and the matcha powder that gives the frosting its unique, vibrant character. Let’s dive into what makes this cake truly special.

1 cup (142g) all purpose flour: The base of the cake, providing a soft and tender crumb.
1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise to a perfect, fluffy height.
¼ tsp baking soda: Works with baking powder to ensure lightness.
¼ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
1 tsp matcha powder: Adds an enchanting green hue and subtle earthiness, especially for the frosting.
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar: Sweetens and browns the cake beautifully.
⅓ cup (40g) finely ground roasted salted pistachios: Infuses a nutty richness and delightful texture.
¼ cup (60ml) olive oil (or any neutral oil): Keeps the cake moist with a tender crumb.
1 large egg (room temperature): Binds ingredients and adds structure.
½ cup (120ml) full fat plain yogurt: Adds tang and keeps the cake moist.
1 tbsp lemon zest: Bursts of fresh citrus flavor that brighten the entire cake.
¼ cup (60ml) whole milk (room temperature): Helps achieve a smooth, silky batter.
½ tsp pure vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic depth.
¼ tsp pure almond extract: Optional but offers a lovely nutty note that complements pistachios.
½ cup (125g) very soft cream cheese: The creamy base for the luscious frosting.
⅔ cup (160ml) 35% heavy whipping cream: Whipped into soft peaks to create light, fluffy frosting.
4 tbsp (50g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the frosting perfectly.
1 tsp (5ml) fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness to the frosting, matching the cake’s citrus notes.
½ tsp pure vanilla extract: Rounds out the frosting’s flavor.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Lemon Pistachio Cake with Matcha Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Preheat

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch square metal baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures your cake will bake evenly and not stick, giving you those beautiful clean edges.

Step 2: Sift and Mix Dry Ingredients

Sift together the all purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, matcha powder, and salt into a large bowl. Then add granulated sugar and finely ground roasted salted pistachios, whisking thoroughly to distribute these flavor-packed ingredients evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil (or your chosen neutral oil), egg, yogurt, lemon zest, milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract if you’re using it. These wet ingredients create a smooth, flavorful base that will keep your cake dreamy and moist.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl. Using a spatula, gently fold everything together. Be careful to mix just until combined — stopping before it becomes overworked to keep the cake tender. Make sure you scrape the bottom so no dry flour pockets remain.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Pop it into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let it cool in the pan for 20 minutes before transferring the cake to a cooling rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting.

Step 6: Prepare the Matcha Frosting

Beat the very soft cream cheese until silky smooth. Add 2 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream and beat again until lump-free. Gradually add the remaining cream while beating until soft peaks form. Slowly incorporate the sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, until the frosting thickens to a smooth, spreadable consistency that’s bursting with gentle matcha and citrus notes.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate

Spread your luscious matcha frosting evenly over the completely cooled cake using an offset spatula for the cleanest finish. For the final touch, sprinkle some crushed pistachios on top to echo the nutty flavors inside and add some textural contrast.

How to Serve Lemon Pistachio Cake with Matcha Frosting Recipe

A square cake with a golden brown base sits on a white marbled surface. The top layer is covered evenly with thick, white cream that has a soft, swirled texture. On top, there are five thin lemon slices arranged partly overlapping in the center. The cream is sprinkled with crushed green pistachios evenly spread across the surface. Around the cake, there are whole pistachios and lemon halves, with a small round brown dish holding more crushed pistachios placed at the top left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a beautiful presentation, top slices with extra crushed pistachios, a small dusting of matcha powder, or a few thin lemon zest curls. These simple garnishes make the cake look as special as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This cake is wonderfully versatile when it comes to pairing. A scoop of tangy lemon sorbet or a dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the layers perfectly. For a cozy touch, serve with a cup of green tea or a light floral herbal tea to enhance the matcha notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the cake as mini squares on a dessert platter alongside fresh berries and edible flowers for an elegant look. You could also turn it into a layered dessert in clear glasses, layering cake pieces with extra frosting and pistachio bits for a stunning parfait.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, keep your cake stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and maintains its lovely texture for up to 3 days — perfect if you want to savor a slice or two without rushing.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. This preserves freshness for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and add fresh frosting if desired.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. If you prefer it slightly warmer, allow it to sit at room temperature out of the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

Absolutely! While pistachios add a unique flavor and color, you can substitute with almonds or walnuts. Just make sure to finely grind them to maintain the cake’s texture.

Is matcha powder necessary for the frosting?

Matcha provides the signature flavor and gorgeous green color in the frosting. If you don’t have it, you can omit it but the frosting will be more traditional cream cheese in flavor and appearance.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Replacing the all purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend might work, but results can vary. Use a blend designed for baking and consider adding a binding agent like xanthan gum for best texture.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

Almond extract is optional and can be left out without compromising the cake’s flavor. The lemon and pistachios shine through wonderfully on their own.

How long should I whip the frosting to get soft peaks?

Whip the cream cheese and cream mixture gently and gradually to avoid overbeating. It typically takes about 3-5 minutes on medium speed until soft peaks form, meaning the frosting should hold shape but still be creamy and spreadable.

Final Thoughts

I’m so excited for you to try this Lemon Pistachio Cake with Matcha Frosting Recipe because it truly feels like a little slice of joy made with every ingredient thoughtfully chosen. From the bright citrus zing to the delicate crunch and the dreamy, earthy frosting, it’s a dessert that’s sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen. Bake it soon and share the love with friends or keep it all to yourself — either way, pure happiness is guaranteed.