Swedish cake with caramelized almonds

Swedish cake with caramelized almonds: a dessert that combines tradition with modernity, bringing a touch of elegance and refinement to every slice. This recipe, inspired by the rich history of Nordic sweets, is perfect for festive meals or for moments when the craving for something sweet becomes irresistible. In the following steps, I will guide you step by step to achieve a delicious cake with a soft texture and an intense almond flavor that will surely become your favorite.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the base:
- 150 g ground almonds
- 150 g sugar (preferably brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 6 egg whites
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cream:
- 6 egg yolks
- 120 g powdered sugar
- 300 ml heavy cream (unsweetened)
- 120 g soft butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or essence)

For the caramel:
- 30 g ground almonds
- 7 tablespoons sugar

Necessary utensils
- Blender
- Mixer
- Cake pan (preferably with a removable bottom)
- Parchment paper
- A medium saucepan
- A spatula

Step by step to achieve the perfect cake

1. Preparing the almonds
Start by preheating the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place all the almonds on a baking sheet and roast them for 6-7 minutes until they turn golden and their aroma intensifies. This step is essential for achieving a rich and deep flavor. Once cooled, set aside 150 g for the base and finely grind them in the blender.

2. Preparing the base
In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until you achieve a firm foam with stiff peaks. Incorporate the vanilla extract and ground almonds, gently folding with a spatula to maintain air in the mixture.

Line the cake pan with parchment paper on the bottom and grease it with butter to prevent sticking. Divide the mixture into two equal parts and pour the first part into the pan. Bake for about 15 minutes until the base is firm and lightly golden. Repeat the process with the second part of the mixture.

3. Preparing the cream
In a medium saucepan, mix the egg yolks with the powdered sugar. Add the heavy cream and cook over low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Remove from heat and add the butter and vanilla extract. Let it cool completely.

4. Caramelizing the almonds
In a skillet, caramelize the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Once the sugar turns golden, add the ground almonds and mix quickly to combine. Pour the mixture onto a greased parchment sheet and let it cool. Once hardened, crush it into small pieces using a food processor.

5. Assembling the cake
On a serving platter, place the first base, add a generous layer of cream, then place the second base on top. Frost the cake with the remaining cream, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Sprinkle the caramelized almonds on top for an attractive appearance and a crunchy taste.

6. Cooling and serving
Let the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (ideally overnight) to set well. I recommend serving it with a caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the tasting experience.

Practical tips
- For a more intense flavor: You can add a teaspoon of almond essence to the base mixture.
- Variations: Substitute almonds with pecans or hazelnuts for a different texture and flavor.
- Serving: This cake pairs perfectly with a fruit tea or a sweet wine, bringing a pleasant contrast to its sweetness.

Nutritional information
This cake contains approximately 350 calories per serving, providing a good source of protein due to the egg whites and yolks. Almonds are rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use roasted almonds? Yes, roasted almonds can add a more intense flavor.
2. How can I make the cake less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar in the cream or use a natural sweetener.
3. Can the cake be frozen? Yes, but I recommend assembling it only after thawing to maintain optimal texture.

This Swedish cake with caramelized almonds is not just a recipe, but a culinary experience that will transport you to a world of delicate flavors and crunchy textures. So, don't hesitate to prepare it and share the joy of an extraordinary dessert with your loved ones!