Chocolate Pistachio or Lime Cake with Dark Chocolate Ganache

📖 Description

This rich and moist cake combines the nutty flavor of pistachios or the tangy freshness of lime with the decadence of dark chocolate ganache. Perfect for celebrations, dinner parties, or simply indulging in a luxurious dessert. The pistachio version is earthy and nutty, while the lime version is bright and zesty — both pair beautifully with the silky chocolate topping.

📝 Ingredients For the Cake (Choose Pistachio or Lime Base)

Option 1: Pistachio Cake

• 1 cup shelled pistachios (unsalted, finely ground)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp salt

• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)

• 1 cup sugar

• 3 large eggs

• ½ cup milk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Option 2: Lime Cake

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp salt

• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)

• 1 cup sugar

• 3 large eggs

• Zest of 2 limes

• 3 tbsp fresh lime juice

• ½ cup milk

For the Dark Chocolate Ganache

• 200 g dark chocolate (70% cocoa preferred), chopped

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for shine)

🍰 Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: 175°C (350°F). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan.

2. Prepare Dry Ingredients:

   • For pistachio: mix ground pistachios, flour, baking powder, and salt.

   • For lime: mix flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add Eggs: Beat in eggs one at a time.

5. Flavor Base:

   • Pistachio: stir in vanilla extract.

   • Lime: stir in lime zest and juice.

6. Combine: Alternately add dry mixture and milk to the wet mixture. Mix until smooth.

7. Bake: Pour into pan and bake for 30–35 minutes (toothpick should come out clean). Cool completely.

8. Make Ganache: Heat cream until simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate. Let sit 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Stir in butter if using.

9. Assemble: Pour ganache over cooled cake. Let set before slicing.

🍴 Servings

8–10 slices

📊 Nutritional Info (per slice, approx.)

• Calories: 320–360 (depending on pistachio or lime base)

• Protein: 5 g

• Carbs: 38 g

• Fat: 18 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 22 g

💡 Notes & Tips

• Use roasted pistachios for deeper flavor.

• For extra richness, add 2 tbsp ground pistachios on top of ganache as decoration.

• For the lime version, garnish with lime zest curls or candied lime slices.

• The cake keeps well for 3 days in the fridge (best at room temp before serving).

• Make cupcakes instead by reducing baking time to 18–20 minutes.

🌿 Benefits

• Dark chocolate: Rich in antioxidants, supports heart health.

• Pistachios: Provide healthy fats, plant protein, and fiber.

• Lime: Boosts vitamin C and aids digestion.

❓ Q/A 

Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes, substitute with almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix.

Q: Can I use white chocolate instead of dark?
A: Yes, but the flavor will be much sweeter and less rich.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days, or refrigerate up to 5 days.

Q: Can I freeze the cake?
A: Yes, wrap tightly in cling film (without ganache) and freeze up to 2 months. Add ganache after thawing.