Mini Heart Cake with Pistachio

Name: Mini Heart Cake with Pistachio
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup ground pistachios; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt; Powdered sugar; Chopped pistachios

Highlighted under: Easy Desserts Inspiration

I love experimenting with flavors that evoke joy and nostalgia, and this Mini Heart Cake with Pistachio does just that. The combination of sweet and nutty tones in this cake creates a delightful experience with every bite. It’s perfect for special occasions or just to brighten someone’s day. The cake's tender crumb and vibrant colors make it visually appealing, and the aroma while baking fills my kitchen with warmth. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:41:35.226Z

When I first decided to make this cake, I wanted something that combined elegance with a comforting flavor. The use of pistachios not only adds a unique taste but also a lovely crunch that complements the moist cake. I found that blending the nuts into the batter gives a richer texture and enhances the overall experience.

While testing the recipe, I discovered that a hint of cardamom elevates the flavor profile remarkably. As soon as it baked, the rich scent filled my home, making it hard to resist. Trust me, adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top just before serving makes for a stunning presentation!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Delightful blend of nutty pistachio and sweet cake
Perfectly moist and melts in your mouth
Beautiful heart shape ideal for any celebration

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of all-purpose flour and ground pistachios not only contributes to the cake's uplifting flavor but also determines its texture. Ground pistachios enrich the cake with healthy fats and moisture, creating a tender crumb. If you want to experiment, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour, which will further enhance the nutty notes and create a moist, dense cake. Just ensure to adjust the baking time slightly as cakes made with nut flours may bake faster.

Using unsalted butter in this recipe is crucial, as it allows you to control the saltiness of the cake better than salted butter. The butter should be softened to room temperature, which makes it easier to cream with the sugar. If you're short on butter, you can use coconut oil in the same amount, which will impart a light tropical flavor that complements the pistachios beautifully.

The Baking Process

When preparing your heart-shaped cake pan, ensure it's well-greased and floured to prevent sticking. For added assurance, consider lining the bottom with parchment paper. This technique guarantees that the cake will release cleanly from the pan, preserving its perfect shape. Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes; you'll know it's done when the edges begin to pull away from the pan slightly and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Cooling your cake correctly is essential to maintaining its texture. After removing it from the oven, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This short cooling period makes it easier to remove the cake while it's still warm without it falling apart, as a too-cool cake can stick. Once on the wire rack, let it sit for a further 20-30 minutes to ensure that it has set well.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful baking experience.

Cake Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup ground pistachios
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup milk
2 large eggs
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt

For Garnishing

Powdered sugar
Chopped pistachios

These ingredients will come together to create a deliciously moist cake.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Mini Heart Cake with Pistachio.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a heart-shaped cake pan.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a separate mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, blending until smooth.

Combine Mixes

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared heart-shaped pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with chopped pistachios before serving.

Enjoy your delicious creation with loved ones!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of orange zest to the batter.

Serving Suggestions

This Mini Heart Cake with Pistachio is versatile when it comes to serving options. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream flavored with a hint of vanilla or almond extract. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the cake, creating a delightful contrast. Alternatively, a simple lemon drizzle can enhance the pistachio flavor while adding a zesty kick.

For a more decadent approach, you could layer the cake with a pistachio-infused cream cheese frosting. To make this frosting, whip together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and ground pistachios until silky smooth. This rich enhancement not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful visual between the layers that makes this cake a true centerpiece for any celebration.

Storage and Freezing

If you find yourself with leftover cake, you're in luck! This heart cake keeps well. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you'd like to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place it in a resealable freezer bag. The cake can be frozen for up to three months, ensuring you have a sweet treat ready at a moment's notice.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen slice, simply transfer it to the refrigerator for a few hours to thaw. Avoid microwaving the cake as it can turn it dry. Instead, allow it to come to room temperature to preserve its moist, fluffy texture. A light dusting of powdered sugar upon serving will freshen it up beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

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

→ Can this cake be made in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake it a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature.

→ How should I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month.