Sour Cream Cake with Almonds

This delightful sour cream cake with almonds offers a unique twist to traditional desserts. The cake is known for its moist texture, achieved by incorporating sour cream in the batter. With the delicate flavors of vanilla and the rich texture of almonds, this dessert is bound to be a hit. This versatile cake can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh fruit. It's easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Whether you're hosting a tea party or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, this cake suits all occasions. Its simplicity is deceptive, as the flavors are complex and satisfying. The cake is not overly sweet, allowing the subtle taste of the almonds to shine through. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it also stores well, maintaining its freshness for days.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup sour cream
• 200 g flour
• 100 g sugar
• 3 eggs
• 0.5 tsp baking soda
• Vanilla sugar
• Almonds (some chopped, some left whole)
• Powdered sugar

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare your ingredients: Gather all necessary items and measure them as listed.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, lightly beat the eggs, then mix in the sour cream, regular sugar, vanilla sugar, and baking soda. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Combine with dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients while stirring continuously to form a uniform batter.
4. Prepare the baking pan: Grease a baking pan of your choice with butter or cooking spray.
5. Pour the batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan.
6. Add the almonds: Sprinkle whole and chopped almonds on top of the batter for texture and flavor.
7. Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 190°C (374°F) and allow it to reach the desired temperature.
8. Bake the cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.
9. Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to test the cake's readiness. It should come out clean when inserted into the center.
10. Remove from the oven: Take the pan out and let the cake cool slightly in the pan.
11. Sprinkle with powdered sugar: Once partially cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness.
12. Serving preparation: Consider adding a side of berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream when serving.
13. Storing leftovers: If not consumed immediately, store the cake in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
14. Reheating tip: Gently warm the slices in the oven or microwave for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
15. Experiment with flavors: Try adding a hint of lemon zest or cinnamon to the batter for varied flavor profiles.
16. Avoid overbaking: Keep a watchful eye during the final minutes of baking to avoid drying out the cake.
17. Slicing suggestions: Use a sharp knife to slice cleanly through the almonds without breaking the cake apart.
18. Presentation idea: For a polished look, arrange a few extra whole almonds on top after dusting with powdered sugar.
19. Garnish: Finish with a sprig of fresh mint for a splash of color.
20. Enjoy and savor: Take the time to appreciate the cake's moist crumb and flavorful almonds with each bite.

Tips

• Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier taste without affecting the cake's moisture.
• Experiment with nut variations: Consider pistachios or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
• Adjust sweetness by reducing sugar for a less sweet version.
• Use a non-stick pan to ensure easy removal of the cake once baked.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 250
• Protein: 6g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 25g

Variations

• Gluten-Free option: Use almond flour instead of regular flour.
• Vegan adaptation: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and sour cream with vegan yogurt.
• Add fruit twists: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Serve with fresh strawberries or a berry compote for a fruity contrast.
• Add a side of crème fraîche or whipped cream to enhance the dessert experience.

Best Places

• Pierre Hermé Paris - Famous for its exquisite pastries. Location: 72 Rue Bonaparte, Paris, France.
• Magnolia Bakery - Known for a variety of classic and modern cakes. Location: 401 Bleecker Street, New York, USA.
• Café Sacher Vienna - Renowned for the traditional sachertorte. Location: Philharmoniker Str. 4, Vienna, Austria.
• Pasticceria Marchesi - Offers delightful Italian sweets. Location: Via Montenapoleone, Milan, Italy.
• Tartine Bakery- Celebrated for artisanal bread and pastries. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.
• Fauchon - A luxurious French patisserie. Location: 30 Place de la Madeleine, Paris, France.
• The Hummingbird Bakery - Specializes in American-style baked goods. Location: 133 Portobello Rd, London, UK.
• Cakeshop- InterContinental - Known for decadent chocolate cakes. Location: 524 Bongeunsa-ro, Seoul, South Korea.
• Bourke Street Bakery - Offers a range of baked treats. Location: 633 Bourke St, Surry Hills, Australia.
• Café Central - A classic spot for Austrian desserts. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.