As the loaf bakes in the oven, the kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread,
mingled with the exotic scents of cardamom and rose. Anticipation builds as golden brown perfection is achieved, and the loaf emerges from the oven, its crust glistening with a hint of sweetness.
INGREDIENTS
>>Loaf Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cardamom, ground
1 cup unsalted pistachios, finely ground into a paste
1/2 cup unsalted pistachios, roughly chopped
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon rose water
Pomegranate Rose Glaze Ingredients:
1/2 cup pomegranate juice
2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon rose water
For the Decoration:
1/2 cup pomegranate arils
1/4 cup unsalted pistachios, roughly chopped
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and cardamom.
In a separate bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and pistachio paste until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then mix in the rose water.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, alternating with the milk. Stir in the chopped pistachios.
>Pour the batter into the prepared pan
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the loaf cool, then remove from the pan.
For the glaze:
Whisk together the pomegranate juice, powdered sugar, and rose water until smooth.
Pour the glaze over the cooled loaf, allowing it to drip down the sides.
While the glaze is still wet, decorate with pomegranate arils and chopped pistachios.