Almond cake with ganache cream

Almond cake with ganache cream is a true delicacy that delights with its combination of textures and flavors. This recipe, with origins lost in history, is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can transform a dessert into a masterpiece. Here’s how you can create this refined cake, step by step, and impress anyone who crosses your threshold.

Total preparation time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the layers:
- 150 g flour
- 150 g peeled almonds
- 100 g sugar
- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 egg
- 1 packet baking powder
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- Zest of one lemon

For the ganache cream:
- 250 ml liquid cream
- 250 g milk chocolate

For the almond cream:
- 150 g peeled almonds
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 500 ml liquid cream
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 1 packet gelatin granules

For the almond glaze:
- 200 g almond flakes
- 50 g honey
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 100 ml liquid cream
- 1 packet vanilla sugar

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the ganache cream
1. In a saucepan, add the liquid cream and broken chocolate pieces. Place the saucepan over low heat, stirring continuously to prevent the chocolate from burning.
2. Once the chocolate has completely melted, remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature. Then, place it in the fridge for about 2 hours.

Step 2: Preparing the almond cream
1. Boil the almonds in water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and let them cool. The skin will come off easily.
2. In a saucepan, caramelize 200 g of sugar with the vanilla sugar until golden. Add the peeled almonds and mix well, then let cool.
3. Finely grind the caramelized almonds.
4. Hydrate the gelatin in 2 tablespoons of cold water.
5. Whip the cream until stiff and keep it in the fridge.
6. Heat the gelatin in a double boiler until dissolved, then mix with the caramelized almonds and add the whipped cream. Gently combine.

Step 3: Preparing the layers
1. Blanch the almonds, peel them, and grind them. Mix the ground almonds, butter, sugar, egg, vanilla sugar, and baking powder in a bowl.
2. Slowly add the flour until you get an elastic dough that doesn't stick to your hands. If necessary, adjust the amount of flour.
3. Divide the dough into four equal parts. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
4. Bake 3 layers of dough on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. The fourth layer will be used for the glaze, so keep it for later.

Step 4: Preparing the almond glaze
1. In a saucepan, mix the honey, sugar, cream, and vanilla sugar. Place over heat and bring to a boil.
2. When the mixture boils, add the almond flakes, stirring continuously. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 5: Assembling the cake
1. Place the first layer of dough on a platter and spread a layer of ganache cream, followed by a layer of almond cream.
2. Continue with the second and third layers, alternating between the two creams. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set.
3. Place the fourth layer on top and cover with the warm almond glaze. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the almonds become golden and crispy.
4. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely. Once cooled, you can slice and enjoy.

Serving suggestions
This almond cake with ganache cream pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or a flavored tea. Additionally, vanilla ice cream or extra whipped cream would add a touch of refinement and flavor.

Possible variations
If almonds are not your favorite, you can experiment with hazelnuts or walnuts, which will bring a personal touch and a unique taste. Also, for a lighter dessert, you can use white chocolate instead of milk chocolate in the ganache cream.

Nutritional benefits
Almonds are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants. This is a calorie-rich dessert, but with considerable nutritional value. It is important to consume in moderation, considering that a serving contains about 450 calories.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of nuts? Yes, you can use hazelnuts, walnuts, or even pistachios to diversify the flavor.
- How can I store the cake? It is recommended to keep it in the fridge, covered, to stay fresh. It can be consumed for 3-4 days.
- Can it be frozen? Yes, the cake can be frozen, but it is ideal to slice it before freezing.

This almond cake with ganache cream is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that brings joy and warmth in every bite. So, don't hesitate to try it and share this recipe with your loved ones!