Immerse yourself in the delightful simplicity of this Almond Cake, a traditional German dessert known for its moist, fluffy base topped with a crunchy almond layer. This cake combines the classic flavors of sweet almonds with a hint of fresh lemon zest, making it a wonderfully balanced treat. Its easy preparation and delicious outcome make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bakers.
Why You'll Love This: This Almond Cake is not only straightforward to make but also impresses with its dual texture: a soft cake base and a rich, caramelized almond topping. The lemon zest in the batter adds a refreshing note that cuts through the sweetness, providing a perfect flavor balance. This cake is versatile enough to serve as a delightful afternoon snack or a sophisticated dessert at dinner parties.
Perfect Occasion: Ideal for coffee breaks, family gatherings, or as a sweet finale to a casual lunch. It's also a fantastic choice for holiday celebrations and potlucks because it's both easy to make in large quantities and sure to please a crowd. This cake can also be dressed up for special occasions with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.
Decoration Tips: For a simple yet elegant presentation, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or drizzle it with a light glaze. To enhance its appearance and flavor, serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of berry compote. A few fresh mint leaves can add a splash of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Ingredients:
- Cake:
- 300g flour
- 1 packet baking powder
- 150g sugar
- Zest of one organic lemon
- 200ml cream
- 4 eggs
- Topping:
- 300g sliced almonds
- 170g butter
- 120g sugar
- 5 tbsp milk
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and lemon zest until creamy. Stir in the cream briefly, then sift in the flour and baking powder, mixing until just combined. Pour the batter into a greased 38x25 cm baking dish.
- Initial Baking: Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for 10-12 minutes.
- Prepare the Topping: While the cake is baking, melt butter, sugar, and milk in a saucepan, bring to a brief boil, then stir in the almond slices.
- Add Topping and Finish Baking: After the initial baking, evenly distribute the almond topping over the partially baked cake. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool completely in the pan. Serve as is or with additional garnishes if desired.
Enjoy this delightful Almond Cake, a simple yet elegant dessert that's perfect for any baking enthusiast looking to impress with minimal effort!