Nut and lemon cake

Nut and Lemon Cake – a delight that combines the fresh aroma of lemon with the crunchy texture of nuts, perfect for any occasion. This cake recipe is not only simple but also quick, providing you with a dessert that is sure to impress everyone who enjoys it. Moreover, the nut and lemon cake is an excellent choice for a healthy dessert, rich in nutrients and with a unique taste.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:
- 8 eggs (at room temperature)
- 250 grams powdered sugar
- 250 grams butter (melted and cooled)
- 1/2 almond essence
- 230 grams flour (sifted)
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee
- 150 grams nuts (coarsely chopped)
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)

Step by step for the nut and lemon cake:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients on your work surface. Ensure the butter is melted but not hot; it should be at room temperature to mix well with the other ingredients.

2. Beat the butter with sugar: In a large bowl, add the melted butter and powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat these ingredients until you achieve a creamy and fluffy mixture. Adding a pinch of salt will enhance the flavors and balance the sweetness.

3. Incorporate the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step is crucial for ensuring an even texture of the cake.

4. Add the almond essence: At this stage, add the almond essence, which will provide a subtle and fragrant taste to the cake.

5. Sifting the dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour and baking powder. This will help aerate the mixture and prevent lumps from forming.

6. Combining the ingredients: Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the butter and egg composition, gently mixing with a spatula to avoid losing the airiness brought by the eggs.

7. Dividing the mixture: Divide the mixture into two equal parts. In one of them, add the coarsely chopped nuts and instant coffee. Mix well for even distribution.

8. Preparing the lemon: Grate 2/3 of the lemon zest, being careful not to include the white part, which is bitter. Finely chop the lemon zest and add it to the other half of the mixture, along with the lemon essence and juice. Mix gently.

9. Preparing the baking tray: Preheat the oven to 170 degrees Celsius. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.

10. Pouring the mixtures: Start by pouring the nut mixture into the tray, spreading it evenly. Then, pour the lemon mixture on top, being careful not to mix the two layers.

11. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let it bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the cake browns too quickly, you can cover the surface with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

12. Cooling: After the cake is baked, let it cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the nuts: You can use Romanian walnuts, hazelnuts, or even almonds, depending on your preferences. Roasting the nuts before adding them to the mixture will enhance the flavor.
- Gluten-free version: If you want a gluten-free version, you can replace the flour with a mix of almond flour and oat flour.
- Serving: Serve the cake with a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a few slices of fresh lemon. This contrast of flavors will make the dessert even more delicious.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This nut and lemon cake contains approximately 350 calories per serving, being a good source of protein due to the eggs and nuts. The nuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, while lemons provide a healthy dose of vitamin C.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of sweetener? Yes, you can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but adjust the amount to taste.
- How long can the cake be stored? The cake keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can leave it at room temperature, but it will stay fresh longer in the fridge.
- Can it be frozen? Yes, the cake can be frozen. We recommend portioning it before freezing so you can take only what you need.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get to work! This nut and lemon cake will not only be a delicious dessert but will also bring a touch of joy and flavor to your life. Enjoy!