Almond desserts offer a delightful mix of nutty flavors and creamy textures. Here’s a versatile and delicious almond dessert recipe that you can try: Almond Cake with Almond Cream and Fresh Berries. This dessert features a moist almond cake, topped with a rich almond cream, and garnished with fresh berries.
Almond Cake with Almond Cream and Fresh Berries
Ingredients
For the Almond Cake:
- 1 cup (120g) almond flour
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk (any kind)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Almond Cream:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60g) almond paste or marzipan (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon almond liqueur (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh berries (e.g., raspberries, strawberries, blueberries)
- Powdered sugar (optional)
- Sliced almonds (optional, for extra crunch)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Almond Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Almond Cream:
- In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in the finely chopped almond paste or marzipan, vanilla extract, and almond liqueur if using.
- Chill the almond cream in the refrigerator until ready to use.
3. Assemble the Dessert:
- Once the almond cake has completely cooled, spread a generous layer of almond cream over the top.
- Garnish with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
- Sprinkle sliced almonds on top for added texture and visual appeal.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice and serve the almond cake. Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat!
This almond dessert is rich, yet light, and perfect for a special occasion or a sweet treat any time. The combination of almond-flavored cake and cream, along with fresh berries, makes for a deliciously balanced and elegant dessert.