Almond-flavored cake

Almond-flavored cake - a delicacy that combines finesse and refinement in a simple-to-make dessert, yet with a spectacular impact. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring a touch of elegance to your table. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge yourself, this almond cake is the perfect choice!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients needed

For the base:
- 4 eggs
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 4 tablespoons of flour (heaped)
- 2 tablespoons of oil

For the cream:
- 500 g mascarpone
- 4 tablespoons of powdered sugar
- 250 ml liquid cream (preferably with a high-fat content)
- 1 and 1/2 tablespoons of cocoa

For the glaze:
- 250 ml liquid cream
- 1 teaspoon of cocoa
- 2 teaspoons of powdered sugar

For the syrup:
- 200 ml water
- 250 g sugar
- 1 bottle of almond essence

Preparing the base

1. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Ensure that the bowls are clean and dry to allow the egg whites to whip well.

2. Whipping the egg whites: Use a mixer to whip the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy base.

3. Adding the yolks: Add the yolks one by one while continuing to mix. This will contribute to a richer texture of the base.

4. Incorporating the oil: Add the two tablespoons of oil and mix well. The oil will help retain moisture in the base.

5. Adding the flour: Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold in the flour, being careful not to overmix, to preserve the air in the egg whites.

6. Baking: Pour the mixture into a baking pan lined with parchment paper and place it in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Preparing the cream

1. Mixing the mascarpone: In a bowl, add the mascarpone and powdered sugar. Mix vigorously with a mixer until it becomes a smooth and fluffy cream.

2. Incorporating the cocoa: Add the cocoa and mix again to achieve a uniform composition.

3. Adding the cream: Whip the liquid cream until it becomes firm and carefully fold it into the mascarpone cream. This will add an airy and creamy texture.

Preparing the syrup

1. Boiling the syrup: In a saucepan, combine the water with the sugar and boil until the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the almond essence and let it cool.

Assembling the cake

1. Soaking the base: Once the base has completely cooled, evenly soak it with the cold syrup. This step is crucial for providing moisture and flavor.

2. Adding the cream: Spread the mascarpone cream over the base, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

3. Creating the glaze: Whip the 250 ml of liquid cream with the cocoa and powdered sugar until it becomes firm. Spread it evenly over the mascarpone cream.

4. Decoration: For an elegant look, sprinkle almond flakes on top of the cake, and if desired, you can add grated chocolate for an extra touch of flavor and texture.

Chef's tip

To achieve the best results, ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help with a more uniform mixing and ensure a better texture of the cream. Additionally, for an extra flavor boost, you can add a few drops of almond extract to the mascarpone cream.

Calories and nutritional benefits

Each serving of almond-flavored cake contains approximately 300 calories, with a rich content of healthy fats from the cream and mascarpone, as well as protein from the eggs. This dessert can be enjoyed in moderation, offering a delicious and satisfying experience.

Frequently asked questions

Can I substitute mascarpone with something else?
Yes, you can use cottage cheese or ricotta, but the taste and texture will be different.

Is it possible to make the cake less sweet?
Sure! You can reduce the amount of sugar in the cream or use a natural sweetener.

How can I store the cake?
The cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days. The flavors intensify as it sits.

Serving suggestions

This almond-flavored cake pairs perfectly with a cup of green tea or an espresso coffee. Additionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or extra whipped cream can add an extra touch of indulgence.

In conclusion, the almond-flavored cake is not just a dessert but a culinary experience that blends tradition with modernity. Each slice is a celebration of flavors and textures, and every bite will take you on a delicious journey. Enjoy!