Chocolate Orange Pistachio Snack Cake

Name: Chocolate Orange Pistachio Snack Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8.0
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup fresh orange juice; Zest of 1 orange; 1/2 cup chopped pistachios; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons orange juice; 1 tablespoon cocoa powder

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love the combination of chocolate and orange, especially when paired with the crunch of pistachios. This Chocolate Orange Pistachio Snack Cake has become a favorite in my home, providing the perfect balance of rich and zesty flavors. The moist texture and delightful crunch make it ideal for a quick snack or a special dessert. I can't wait for you to try this – every bite is a little piece of heaven!

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:25:14.423Z

When I first thought about experimenting with flavors in a snack cake, I knew chocolate and orange would be a delicious pairing. The addition of crushed pistachios not only adds a lovely crunch but also enhances the flavor profile beautifully. During my many attempts, I discovered that lightly toasting the pistachios before adding them really brings out their nuttiness, making all the difference in the final cake.

With each iteration, I learned the importance of balancing the sweetness of chocolate with the bright zest of oranges. I opted for fresh orange juice and zest to elevate the taste whereas using a good quality cocoa powder can’t be overlooked. Trust me, this cake has become my go-to treat for gatherings and a personal indulgence!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Chocolate Orange Pistachio Snack Cake lies in its quality ingredients. The combination of all-purpose flour and cocoa powder ensures a tender crumb and rich flavor. When using unsweetened cocoa powder, you can control the sweetness of the cake, allowing the natural flavors of the orange and pistachios to shine through. Make sure to sift the cocoa powder with the flour to eliminate any lumps, creating a smooth batter that will rise beautifully.

Orange juice and zest are crucial here; they not only infuse the cake with a refreshing citrus note but also help balance the rich chocolate taste. Freshly squeezed orange juice is the best choice for maximum flavor, and the zest adds an aromatic quality that elevates the cake. If you're out of oranges, you can substitute with lemon juice and zest in a pinch, though this will significantly change the flavor profile.

Perfecting Your Technique

When creaming the butter and sugar, aim for a light and fluffy texture, which will help incorporate air into your batter, resulting in a lighter cake. Use room-temperature butter to achieve this easily; it should appear pale and double in volume. If your butter is too cold, you won't get the right consistency, and if it's too warm, the cake may become dense.

Folding in the chopped pistachios is an important step. Use a gentle hand to avoid deflating the batter, which should be light and airy. You'll want to evenly distribute the pistachios without over-mixing. This will ensure that the cake has delightful crunch spots throughout, adding texture to each bite.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delectable cake:

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
Zest of 1 orange
1/2 cup chopped pistachios

For the Icing (Optional)

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons orange juice
1 tablespoon cocoa powder

Ensure your ingredients are measured accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious snack cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer for this step.

Add Eggs and Zest

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the orange zest and juice, mixing well.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped pistachios.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Decorate

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Optionally, mix the icing ingredients and drizzle it over the cooled cake.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Orange Pistachio Snack Cake!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider garnishing with additional pistachios or orange slices before serving.

Storage and Variations

This cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it well in plastic wrap and refrigerate, where it will stay fresh for about a week. You can also freeze slices individually. Be sure to let them cool completely before wrapping and freezing to maintain texture. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop in the microwave for a few seconds to warm up.

Feel free to experiment with the flavors! For a nut-free option, substitute the pistachios with sunflower seeds or just leave them out altogether. Similarly, you can switch the chocolate for dark chocolate or white chocolate chips, using the same weight as the cocoa powder to keep the batter balanced. A pinch of cinnamon or cardamom can also add an aromatic twist to the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, dust the top of the cooled cake with powdered sugar or drizzle with the optional icing. The bright orange icing creates a beautiful contrast against the dark chocolate, making it visually appealing for gatherings or celebrations. I love serving this cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to complement the rich flavors.

Consider pairing the cake with a cup of strong coffee or a sweet herbal tea. The combination of flavors in the cake is elevated by a good drink, and the bitterness of coffee particularly enhances the chocolate notes. If hosting a gathering, slice the cake into small squares for easy sharing—perfect for a coffee break or afternoon tea.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, walnuts or almonds would also work well in this recipe!

→ How should I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

→ Is the icing necessary?

The icing adds extra sweetness, but the cake is delicious on its own!