Lenten almond cake

Post cake with almonds and cranberries – a simple and economical delight

Who doesn't want a delicious dessert that is easy to prepare and meets all fasting requirements? This post cake with almonds and cranberries is the perfect answer for those looking for a tasty sweet without using animal-derived ingredients. Moreover, it is an economical recipe, ideal for days when the budget is tight, but the craving for sweets is at its peak! Let's discover together how to prepare it step by step.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:

- 3 tablespoons plum jam (choose a natural jam without added preservatives)
- 1 cup sugar (preferably brown sugar for a deeper taste)
- 1 cup soda (carbonated water will add fluffiness to the cake)
- 1/2 cup oil (sunflower oil is a good choice, but you can also use olive oil for a special flavor)
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander (adds an exotic note)
- A pinch of salt
- 50 grams almonds (chopped into small pieces)
- 50 grams cranberries (dried, for a sweet-sour contrast)
- 1 tablespoon cocoa (for a more intense color and flavor)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 cups flour (preferably whole wheat flour for extra fiber)

The history of the post cake

Post cakes were created out of necessity, especially during periods of food abstinence. They are an excellent way to satisfy a sweet craving without using animal-derived ingredients. Recipes have evolved over time, and today we have a variety of combinations that can satisfy the most demanding tastes. This cake is a modern version, adapted to contemporary preferences.

Preparing the cake

1. Start by mixing the wet ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the plum jam with the sugar. Use a spatula or a mixer on low speed to achieve a smooth mixture.

2. Add the soda (carbonated water) and oil. These ingredients will add moisture and texture to the cake. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.

3. In another bowl, mix the flour with cocoa, ground coriander, baking soda, and baking powder. This step is essential to avoid lumps in the final dough. Sifting the flour will contribute to a finer texture of the cake.

4. Pour the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, mixing in a rain-like manner. This will help prevent lumps from forming. Mix until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the dough.

5. Add the cranberries and chopped almonds — these will add a crunchy note and a tangy flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the jam.

6. Prepare a baking tray (preferably 20x30 cm) greased with margarine and dusted with flour. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking.

7. Pour the mixture into the tray and level the surface with a spatula. Place the tray in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius (or 350 degrees Fahrenheit) and bake for 15 minutes.

8. After 15 minutes, remove the tray from the oven and sprinkle the almonds on top, then return to the oven for an additional 25 minutes. This step will allow the almonds to become crunchy and release their flavors.

9. When the cake is ready, check with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, then the cake is perfectly baked. Let the cake cool completely in the tray, then cut it into squares.

Serving suggestions

This post cake is perfect as a dessert at a meal with friends or as a healthy snack between meals. You can serve it plain or alongside a cup of tea or coffee. Additionally, for an extra flavor boost, try serving it with a berry sauce or a little vegan ice cream.

Variations

If you want to experiment, here are a few variations you can try:

- Replace cranberries with raisins or dates for a different taste.
- Add nuts or hazelnuts to diversify the texture of the cake.
- Including spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can add an extra dimension of flavor.

Nutritional benefits

This post cake is not only delicious but also rich in nutrients. Cranberries are full of antioxidants, and almonds provide healthy fats. Furthermore, using whole grain flour contributes to a higher fiber intake, beneficial for digestion.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I replace the plum jam with another type of jam?
Yes, you can use any preferred jam, but make sure it is natural and without preservatives.

2. What can I use instead of oil?
Olive oil or coconut oil are excellent alternatives.

3. How can I store the cake?
This cake stores well in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days.

4. Is it suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegan and can be enjoyed by anyone following a vegan lifestyle.

In conclusion, the post cake with almonds and cranberries is an excellent choice for those looking for a simple, delicious, and healthy dessert option. With a perfect combination of textures and flavors, this recipe will surely become one of your favorites! So gather the necessary ingredients and let’s enjoy this delight together! Bon appétit!