Autumn Delight: Nutty Cinnamon Cake with Mascarpone Topping – A Heavenly Alternative to Carrot Cake

As the leaves change color and the air cools, this Nutty Cinnamon Cake emerges as the perfect autumn treat, surpassing even the beloved carrot cake in flavor and texture. This exquisite cake combines the rich, earthy flavors of crushed walnuts and hazelnuts with the warm spice of cinnamon, creating a delightful seasonal harmony. Topped with a smooth and creamy mascarpone frosting lightly sweetened with powdered sugar, this cake offers a sublime balance of crunchy and moist textures, making it a must-try for any autumn gathering or cozy evening at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of nuts and cinnamon infuses this cake with deep autumnal flavors that are both comforting and indulgent.
• Perfect Texture: The cake’s moist crumb, thanks to the yogurt and oil in the batter, is wonderfully complemented by the crunch of nuts.
• Elegant Mascarpone Topping: A creamy, lightly sweetened mascarpone topping adds a luxurious finish that beautifully contrasts the spiced cake.
• Versatile: Ideal for a variety of occasions, from casual coffee breaks to festive celebrations.

Perfect Occasions:

• Thanksgiving Dessert: Offer a slice as a novel dessert at your Thanksgiving table.
• Autumn Parties: Perfect for any fall celebration, providing a seasonal treat that guests will love.
• Weekend Baking Project: Spend a cool, crisp autumn afternoon baking and enjoying this delightful cake.
• Coffee or Tea Companion: Serve this cake as a sophisticated accompaniment to a hot cup of coffee or tea.

Decoration Tips:

• Nutty Garnish: Sprinkle extra crushed nuts on top of the mascarpone for added texture and flavor.
• Dusting of Cinnamon: A light dusting of cinnamon over the frosting can enhance the visual appeal and spice aroma.
• Edible Flowers: Add edible flowers for a pop of color and a touch of elegance.
• Drizzle with Honey: For an extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful glossy finish, drizzle honey over the frosted cake.

Ingredients:

• 3 eggs
• 1 glass of natural yogurt
• 2 glasses of sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 glass of neutral oil
• 1.5 glasses of flour
• 0.5 glass of cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1 glass of crushed walnuts
• A handful of crushed hazelnuts
• 1 packet of baking powder
• For topping:
  • Mascarpone cheese
  • 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit).
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, yogurt, sugar, and oil until well combined.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and cinnamon, ensuring all are well integrated. Stir in crushed nuts last.
4. Prepare the Pan: Pour the batter into a greased and floured 22cm cake mold.
5. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes. Then cover with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning and continue baking for another 20-30 minutes.
6. Cool and Frost: Allow the cake to cool completely. Whip mascarpone with powdered sugar and spread over the top of the cooled cake.
7. Decorate and Serve: Add any additional toppings and serve.

Enjoy this Nutty Cinnamon Cake with Mascarpone Topping, a divine dessert that promises to enchant your taste buds and become a new autumn favorite.