Looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s gluten-free, naturally sweet, and bursting with flavor? This Flourless Orange Pistachio and Almond Cake is your answer. Made with whole oranges, ground pistachios, and almond flour, this cake has a moist, tender crumb and a zesty citrus punch that makes it unforgettable. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want a cozy treat with tea, this cake will quickly become a go-to favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Flourless Orange Pistachio and Almond Cake
There’s something magical about this cake. Not only does it skip the flour entirely, but it also:
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Delivers bold citrus flavor from whole oranges
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Uses natural sweeteners like honey
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Packs in nutrients and healthy fats from pistachios and almonds
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Is gluten-free and dairy-free without sacrificing taste
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Keeps moist for days
You get all the richness of a traditional cake, without the heaviness or the processed ingredients. It’s basically a hug in dessert form.
The Allure of Flourless Cakes
Flourless cakes have been beloved across cultures for centuries, especially in Mediterranean cuisine. What makes them so special?
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No flour = dense, moist texture that flour-based cakes often lack
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Naturally gluten-free, making them perfect for those with sensitivities
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The flavors of nuts, citrus, and sweeteners shine through with no distractions
The combo of almonds and pistachios not only enhances the texture but also adds a rich, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the brightness of orange. Trust us, this Flourless Orange Pistachio and Almond Cake is proof that simple ingredients can lead to spectacular results.
Ingredients for Flourless Orange Pistachio and Almond Cake
For the Cake:
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2 whole oranges (yes, peel and all!)
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3 large eggs
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⅔ cup honey (a natural sweetener that complements the citrus)
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1 cup ground pistachios (unsalted, preferably)
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2 cups almond flour (not almond meal)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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½ teaspoon baking soda
For the Glaze:
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½ cup fresh orange juice
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2 tablespoons honey
Ingredient Notes:
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Use organic oranges if possible since you’re using the peel.
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Almond flour is finer than almond meal and gives a better texture.
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Want to make it vegan? Try using flax eggs and maple syrup instead of honey (though the texture will change).
How to Make Flourless Orange Pistachio and Almond Cake
This recipe is surprisingly easy. With just a few steps, you’ll have a bakery-worthy cake at home.
Step 1: Prepare the Oranges
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Rinse the oranges thoroughly.
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Place them in a pot, cover with water, and simmer for 1 hour.
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Drain and let them cool slightly.
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Blend them peel and all into a smooth puree.
Boiling helps reduce bitterness and softens the peel for easy blending.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine:
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Orange puree
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Eggs
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Honey
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Ground pistachios
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Almond flour
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Vanilla extract
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Baking soda
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Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Bake
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Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
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Bake for 1 hour. If the top browns too quickly, cover with foil.
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The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 4: Add the Glaze
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While the cake cools slightly, simmer the orange juice and honey until it’s reduced by half.
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Brush the glaze over the warm cake.
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Let the cake cool completely before removing it from the pan.
Tips for a Perfect Flourless Orange Pistachio and Almond Cake
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Use a high-speed blender to ensure your orange puree is ultra-smooth.
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Don’t skip boiling the oranges! It makes all the difference.
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Let the cake cool before slicing it gets firmer and more flavorful with time.
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Top with chopped pistachios or a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
Nutritional Benefits of Flourless Orange Pistachio and Almond Cake
This cake is more than just a treat it’s packed with wholesome ingredients.
Almonds:
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Rich in vitamin E, healthy fats, and protein
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Support heart health and skin
Pistachios:
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Contain antioxidants, fiber, and essential minerals
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Help with blood sugar regulation
Oranges:
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A great source of vitamin C and natural citrus oils
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Improve immune function and skin health
Honey:
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A natural sweetener with antibacterial properties
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Easier to digest than refined sugar
So yes, it’s a cake but it’s also a nutrient-packed dessert you can feel good about.
Serving Suggestions
The beauty of this Flourless Orange Pistachio and Almond Cake is that it fits every occasion.
Try serving it:
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With a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped coconut cream
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Alongside fresh berries or orange slices
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Lightly dusted with powdered sugar
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Paired with herbal tea or espresso
Whether it’s a brunch, afternoon tea, or dinner party dessert, it always impresses.
Storage and Shelf Life
Good news this cake stores beautifully!
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Room Temperature: In an airtight container for up to 3 days
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Refrigerated: Lasts up to a week
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Frozen: Slice and freeze for up to 3 months; thaw at room temp
Tip: If refrigerating, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to regain its full flavor and texture.
Variations on Flourless Orange Pistachio and Almond Cake
Want to make it your own? Here are some fun ideas:
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Add Spices: Try cardamom, cinnamon, or even a pinch of nutmeg.
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Chocolate Lover? Drizzle with dark chocolate ganache.
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Citrus Swap: Use lemons or clementines instead of oranges for a twist.
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Extra Nutty: Add chopped pistachios into the batter for a crunch.
FAQs about Flourless Orange Pistachio and Almond Cake
Can I use almond meal instead of almond flour?
Yes, but the cake may be denser. Almond flour gives a lighter, smoother texture.
Is boiling the oranges really necessary?
Absolutely! It removes bitterness from the peel and softens the fruit for blending.
Can I use a different sweetener than honey?
Yes! Maple syrup or agave nectar works well. Just adjust the amount slightly.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick in the center if it comes out clean, it’s ready. The top should also be golden brown.
Conclusion: Time to Bake Your Flourless Orange Pistachio and Almond Cake
There’s nothing quite like this Flourless Orange Pistachio and Almond Cake. It’s a celebration of flavor, combining citrusy brightness, nutty richness, and natural sweetness all without a grain of flour.
It’s easy to make, good for you, and perfect for any time of the year. Whether you’re gluten-free or just looking to try something new, this cake is a delicious place to start.
So gather your oranges and nuts, and let’s bake something incredible together.
Print
Flourless Orange Pistachio and Almond Cake
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
Moist, nutty, and naturally sweet—this flourless orange, pistachio, and almond cake is a bold citrus treat made with whole oranges, nuts, and honey.
Ingredients
2 whole oranges
3 large eggs
⅔ cup honey
1 cup ground pistachios
2 cups almond flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon baking soda
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For the Glaze:
½ cup fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons honey
Instructions
1. Rinse the oranges and place them in a pot covered with water. Simmer for 1 hour.
2. Drain the oranges and allow them to cool. Blend into a smooth puree.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
4. In a large bowl, combine the orange puree, eggs, honey, pistachios, almond flour, vanilla extract, and baking soda. Mix until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 1 hour. Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly.
6. While the cake is cooling, simmer orange juice and honey until reduced by half.
7. Brush the warm cake with the glaze. Let it cool completely before removing from the pan and serving.
Notes
Use organic oranges since the peel is included in the recipe.
The cake is naturally gluten-free, dense, and moist—similar to a Mediterranean torte.
It tastes even better the next day after the flavors develop.
Top with extra chopped pistachios, powdered sugar, or serve with Greek yogurt or berries.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Flourless Orange, Pistachio, and Almond Cake, gluten-free cake, citrus cake, almond flour cake

