Are you craving a moist, flavorful cake that's surprisingly simple to make? Then look no further! This Coffee Almond Cake recipe is the perfect answer for a delightful afternoon treat or a special occasion dessert. It's incredibly easy, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a rich, coffee-infused flavor with a delightful almond crunch. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. This ensures your cake bakes evenly and prevents sticking.
Mixing the Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This combines the dry ingredients and ensures even leavening.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. A stand mixer or hand mixer works perfectly for this step.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. This incorporates the wet ingredients and adds flavor.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the cooled coffee, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
- Gently fold in the sliced almonds. This adds texture and delightful almond flavor.
Baking and Cooling:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. This indicates the cake is fully baked.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Coffee Almond Cake:
- Use freshly brewed, strong coffee for the most intense flavor.
- Don't overmix the batter; overmixing can result in a tough cake.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting or serving, to prevent the frosting from melting.
- For an extra special touch, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or drizzle it with a simple coffee glaze.
Variations:
- Chocolate Coffee Almond Cake: Add ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
- Citrus Coffee Almond Cake: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the batter.
- Nutty Coffee Almond Cake: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans along with the almonds.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and serving size. For a precise calculation, use a nutritional calculator with the specific brands of ingredients used. However, expect this cake to be relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, making it a treat best enjoyed in moderation.
This Coffee Almond Cake is a perfect example of a delicious dish that's surprisingly easy to make. It's a great choice for a quick dinner idea or a delightful dessert to share with friends and family. The recipe is easily adaptable to suit different preferences and dietary needs, showcasing the beauty of homemade cooking. Enjoy!