Mantovana Cake

To prepare a special dessert, we start by ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature. So, before beginning, take the eggs out of the fridge and let them acclimatize. In a large bowl, add the fresh eggs together with the granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture at medium speed until it becomes a fluffy foam, light yellow in color. This process will take about 5-7 minutes, and the result will be an airy texture that will contribute to the final fluffiness of the cake.

After the eggs have been well beaten, it’s time to integrate the flour. We start adding the sifted flour, one tablespoon at a time, mixing with a silicone spatula or a wooden spoon, to avoid losing air from the mixture. It is essential to add the flour gradually to ensure even homogenization. Once the flour is completely incorporated, we add the grated lemon zest, which will give the cake a fresh and aromatic flavor. Then, melt the butter in a bain-marie or microwave, letting it cool slightly before adding it to the mixture. Integrating the melted butter will contribute to a rich flavor and a fine structure.

If you want to add an extra flavor, now is the time to incorporate a packet of vanilla sugar. Gently mix the composition until all the ingredients are perfectly combined. Preheat the oven to 180 °C, and in the meantime, prepare the round baking pan with a diameter of 24-26 cm. Grease the pan with butter and dust it with flour, ensuring it is well covered to prevent the cake from sticking.

Once the mixture is ready, carefully pour it into the prepared pan. Finally, decorate the surface of the dough with sliced almonds and pine nuts, which will not only add a crunchy note but also a unique aesthetic appearance. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. It is important to check the cake with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. After removing it from the oven, let it cool completely in the pan. Then, before serving, generously dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. This cake will surely become the star of any meal!