Pistachio Bread

Pistachio Bread is a easy American recipe that serves 8. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by ehow on YouTube.

Prep: 23 min | Cook: 45 min | Total: 1 hr 18 min

Cost: $8.70 total, $1.09 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 box Yellow Cake Mix (15‑oz standard box, any brand)
  • 2 boxes Instant Pistachio Pudding Mix (3.4‑oz boxes, provides pistachio flavor and green color)
  • 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (Neutral oil; can use canola or melted butter)
  • 1/2 cup Water (Room temperature)
  • 4 large Eggs (Room temperature)
  • 1 cup Sour Cream (Full‑fat for moisture and tang)
  • 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (For coating the pan)
  • 2 tablespoons Milk (Whole milk preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Almond Extract (Adds subtle nutty aroma)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Pure vanilla preferred)
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Sifted for a smooth glaze)
  • 1/4 cup Unsalted Pistachios (Coarsely chopped for topping)

Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, add the cake mix and the two boxes of pistachio pudding mix. Stir briefly to break up any clumps.

    Time: PT3M

  2. Add Wet Ingredients and Mix

    Add the vegetable oil, water, eggs, and sour cream to the dry mixture. Whisk (or use a hand mixer) until the batter is smooth and a uniform green color appears.

    Time: PT7M

  3. Prepare the Loaf Pan

    Lightly oil the 9×5‑inch loaf pan, then sprinkle the 2 Tbsp of granulated sugar over the oil and spread it evenly.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Transfer Batter to Pan

    Pour the green batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top so it’s even.

    Time: PT2M

  5. Bake the Loaf

    Place the pan in a pre‑heated oven and bake at 350°F for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

    Time: PT45M

    Temperature: 350°F

  6. Make the Almond‑Vanilla Glaze

    While the cake bakes, whisk together the milk, almond extract, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar in a small bowl until smooth.

    Time: PT5M

  7. Cool Slightly and Glaze

    Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a rack for about 10 minutes. Then pour the glaze over the warm cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.

    Time: PT10M

  8. Add Pistachio Topping

    Coarsely chop the unsalted pistachios and sprinkle them evenly over the glazed surface.

    Time: PT2M

  9. Slice and Serve

    Allow the loaf to cool completely before removing it from the pan. Slice into 8 even pieces and enjoy.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
5 g
Carbohydrates
55 g
Fat
12 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Contains nuts, Contains dairy

Allergens: Eggs, Milk, Pistachios (tree nuts), Wheat (gluten), Soy (in pudding mix)

Last updated: April 7, 2026

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Pistachio Bread

Recipe by ehow

A quick and easy pistachio‑green loaf made from a box of cake mix, instant pistachio pudding, and a silky almond‑vanilla glaze. Perfect for a snack, dessert, or tea‑time treat.

EasyAmericanServes 8

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
28m
Prep
50m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 28m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$8.70
Total cost
$1.09
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Mix batter until a uniform green color is achieved – this indicates the pistachio pudding is fully incorporated.
  • Bake until a toothpick comes out clean – underbaking leads to a soggy center.
  • Pour glaze while the cake is still warm for a glossy finish.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot oven pan with oven mitts to avoid burns.
  • Whisking can cause splatter; keep face away from the bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of pistachio cake in American dessert tradition?

A

Pistachio desserts have been popular in the United States since the early 20th century, often appearing in holiday cakes and pastries. The bright green pistachio cake became a novelty treat in the 1950s when convenience cake mixes and instant pudding mixes made it easy for home bakers to add a nutty twist.

cultural
Q

What regional variations of pistachio loaf cake exist within American cuisine?

A

In the Southern United States, pistachio loaf is sometimes paired with cream cheese frosting, while in the Pacific Northwest bakers often add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Some Midwestern versions incorporate a swirl of raspberry jam for contrast.

cultural
Q

How is pistachio pudding cake traditionally served in American gatherings?

A

It is typically served at brunches, tea parties, and holiday dessert tables, sliced into thick wedges and enjoyed with coffee or tea. The glaze adds a glossy finish that makes it look festive for celebrations.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is pistachio pudding cake loaf commonly associated with in the United States?

A

The cake is popular for birthdays, Easter brunches, and spring gatherings because its vibrant green color evokes the season. It also appears at pot‑luck parties where a quick, crowd‑pleasing dessert is needed.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients are traditionally used in pistachio pudding cake versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Traditional recipes call for real pistachio paste or ground pistachios and a simple sugar glaze. In this shortcut version, instant pistachio pudding provides flavor and color, and almond extract adds a complementary nutty note. Substitutes like vanilla pudding with food coloring work, but the flavor profile changes.

cultural
Q

What other American desserts pair well with pistachio pudding cake loaf?

A

Serve it alongside fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A citrus‑infused tea or a light lemonade balances the richness of the cake.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making pistachio pudding cake loaf?

A

Common errors include over‑mixing the batter, which makes the cake tough, and under‑baking, which leaves a soggy center. Also, pouring the glaze on a completely cooled cake can cause it to set too hard and lose its shine.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use instant pistachio pudding instead of fresh pistachio paste?

A

The instant pudding mix provides both flavor and the vivid green color with minimal effort, allowing a quick loaf to be made with pantry staples. Fresh pistachio paste would require extra grinding and may not give the same consistent hue.

technical
Q

Can I make the pistachio pudding cake loaf ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, bake the loaf up to two days in advance. Keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. Add the glaze and pistachio topping just before serving for maximum freshness.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel ehow specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel ehow focuses on quick, step‑by‑step how‑to videos covering a wide range of topics, including easy home cooking, DIY projects, and everyday life hacks. Their cooking videos often feature simple, ingredient‑light recipes that use common pantry items.

channel

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