Unlock the secret to a stunningly simple dessert with our Strawberry Almond Cake. This one-bowl wonder is not only a breeze to prepare but also dazzles with its delightful combination of sweet strawberries and rich almonds. Topped with a sprinkle of slivered almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar, it achieves a perfect balance of elegance and simplicity. Ideal for any occasion, this cake promises to win hearts and please palates, making it an absolute must-try for any home baker.
Why You'll Love This:
The beauty of this Strawberry Almond Cake lies in its simplicity and the explosion of flavors. It perfectly marries the freshness of strawberries with the nutty depth of almonds, all brought together in a moist and tender crumb. The addition of orange zest offers a subtle citrus hint that elevates the overall flavor profile. What's more, the convenience of using just one bowl makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you more time to enjoy the delightful cake you've created.
Perfect Occasion:
This cake is versatile enough to be the star at brunches, tea parties, family dinners, or any celebratory event. Its elegant appearance and refined taste make it an excellent choice for birthdays, anniversaries, or as a special treat to brighten any ordinary day. It's also an impressive option for potlucks or office parties, where it's sure to stand out among the usual dessert offerings.
Decoration Tips:
For a visually stunning presentation, arrange a few extra fresh strawberry slices on top of the cake before baking or after cooling for a burst of color. A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving adds a beautiful finish. For a more decadent touch, a drizzle of almond-flavored glaze or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can enhance the indulgence factor. Don't forget to serve each slice with a sprig of fresh mint for an added pop of color and freshness.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of butter (unsalted, at room temperature)
- 3 tablespoons of vegetable or canola oil
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 1 cup of sugar (granulated)
- Zest from 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon of almond essence
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla essence
- 1 and 1/2 cups of flour (all-purpose)
- 1/2 cup of flour (almond)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 and 1/2 cups of strawberries (fresh, sliced)
- 1/2 cup of almonds (slivered)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Prepare an 8-inch cake pan by lining it with baking paper.
- Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the butter, oil, eggs, and sugar until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Mix in the zest of orange and both almond and vanilla essences.
- On low speed, gradually mix in both types of flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined. Carefully fold in the slices of strawberries.
- Transfer the mixture into the cake pan. Sprinkle the top with slivered almonds. Bake for 40 minutes or until the cake turns lightly golden and a test knife comes out clean.
- After baking, let the cake cool a bit before dusting it with powdered sugar and cutting it into triangle slices.
Embrace the effortless charm and delectable taste of this Strawberry Almond Cake, a delightful treat that's as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Enjoy!