Dessert · Middle Eastern ·

Persian Pistachio Rose Cake

This Persian Pistachio Rose Cake is a delightful blend of fragrant rose water and earthy cardamom, topped with a luscious saffron cream and drizzled with cardamom syrup.

4.4(392 reviews)
·By Ethan Brooks·
Persian Pistachio Rose Cake — Dessert served and photographed from above
Prep
50 min
Cook
2 h 30 min
Difficulty
Intermediate
Serves
8

Preparation

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.

Preparing the Cake Batter

  1. 1

    Preheat and prepare pan

    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch cake pan.

  2. 2

    Cream butter and sugar

    In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

  3. 3

    Add eggs and rose water

    Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in the rose water.

  4. 4

    Combine dry ingredients

    In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground pistachios. Gradually add to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

    Tip: ⚠ Important: Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense texture. 💡 Pro Tip: Sift dry ingredients twice for a finer crumb.

  5. 5

    Transfer batter

    Pour batter into prepared pan.

Making the Cardamom Syrup

  1. 1

    Combine sugar and water

    In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat.

  2. 2

    Add cardamom

    Stir until sugar dissolves, then add cardamom and simmer for 5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Cool syrup

    Remove from heat and let cool.

How to Make Persian Pistachio Rose Cake

Total time: 3 h 20 min · Yields 8 servings

  1. 1

    Bake the Cake

    Bake in preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Saffron Cream

    In a bowl, whisk together cream, saffron, and powdered sugar until soft peaks form; chill until ready to use.

  3. 3

    Soak the Cake

    Once cake is baked and slightly cooled, poke holes all over with a skewer and drizzle the cardamom syrup over the top.

Chef's Tips

    Further reading

    Frequently asked questions

    How long can I store leftovers?

    This cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

    Can I make this ahead?

    Yes, bake the cake a day in advance, wrap it tightly, and add syrup and cream just before serving.

    Is there a substitute for rose water?

    Orange blossom water can be used as an alternative.

    Can I use almond flour instead of pistachios?

    Yes, but the flavor will slightly differ; pistachios give a distinctive taste.

    Can I make this gluten-free?

    Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.

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