Delicious Rhubarb Almond Cake

This delightful and moist rhubarb almond cake combines the tartness of rhubarb with the rich flavors of almond and vanilla. Whether you're serving it for dessert or with coffee in the afternoon, this cake is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Its creamy layer of cheese paired with succulent roasted rhubarb and a crunchy crumb topping creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The cake itself is soft and tender, thanks to the combination of wheat and almond flour, with a hint of citrus from orange zest. The recipe is designed for a 24 cm cake pan and should satisfy all your cake cravings. Expect to spend about 120 minutes preparing and baking this cake, making it perfect for a weekend baking project. The cake’s balance of sweetness and tart is completed by the rich cream layer, making every bite memorable. Enjoy the tempting aroma it disperses while baking, which is just a prelude to its delightful taste. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar for an added touch of elegance.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 300 g rhubarb
• 250 g buttermilk
• 200 g sugar
• 200 g wheat flour
• 110 g room temperature butter
• 50 g almond flour
• 50 g brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1.5 tsp baking powder
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

Cream Layer:

• 250 g cream cheese
• 120 g heavy cream
• 80 g powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

Crumb Topping:

• 100 g flour
• 50 g butter
• 25 g sugar

Preparation Time

Total preparation and cooking time: 120 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C. Line a 24 cm cake pan with parchment paper, and grease the edges with a touch of butter.
2. To make the cake base: Cream the butter and sugar together in a bowl until you achieve a light and fluffy mixture. Gradually beat in the eggs, continuing for another 3 minutes.
3. In another bowl, sift together the wheat flour and baking powder. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the creamy butter mixture.
4. Combine the buttermilk with the orange zest and vanilla, mixing thoroughly. Gradually incorporate into the cake batter and mix until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Meanwhile, peel and chop the rhubarb into sticks about 15 cm long and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle with brown sugar and roast until they soften, about 20-30 minutes.
7. Allow both the cake and rhubarb to cool completely once baked.
8. For the cream layer: Beat the cream cheese in a bowl, then add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, beating until you achieve a creamy consistency.
9. Generously spread the cream over the cooled cake and layer the roasted rhubarb on top.
10. Optionally, garnish with thinly sliced strawberries for a lovely pop of color.
11. For the crumb topping: Mix the flour, butter, and sugar together to form a crumbly mixture.
12. Spread the crumbs over a baking tray and bake them until golden brown, approximately 180°C.
13. Sprinkle the baked crumbs on top of the cake for added texture.
14. Serve the cake on a serving plate, slice, and enjoy. It can be stored in the refrigerator for several days.

Tips

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a better consistency.
• For a more citrusy flavor, add some lemon zest in addition to orange zest.
• Substitute dairy ingredients with non-dairy alternatives for a lactose-free cake.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 450 per slice
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 23g
• Carbs: 56g

Variations

• Use gluten-free flour mixtures for a gluten-free option.
• Replace rhubarb with other seasonal fruits like berries or apples.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Pair with a fresh fruit compote or a simple cup of black tea.

Best Places

• Ladurée - Known for its exquisite pastries, this bakery offers a delightful tea experience. Location: 75 Av. des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
• Demel - An iconic café offering traditional Austrian desserts in a historic setting. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Tartine Bakery - Renowned for its artisanal bread and pastries, including their seasonal offerings. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.
• Pierre Hermé - For a taste of some of the finest French desserts and pastries. Location: 72 Rue Bonaparte, Paris, France.
• Caffè Gilli - Elegant café with a history dating back to 1733, offering Florentine charm. Location: Via Roma, 1/R, Florence, Italy.
• El Moro - Famous for its churros and hot chocolate, a must-visit in Mexico City. Location: Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas 42, Mexico City, Mexico.
• Pasticceria Marchesi - Known for its elegant interiors and delightful pastries. Location: Via Santa Maria alla Porta, 11/a, Milan, Italy.
• Bettys Café Tea Rooms - A quintessentially British experience in the heart of Yorkshire. Location: 1 Parliament St, Harrogate, UK.
• Sacher Café - For a traditional Sacher Torte, unmatched in its original setting. Location: Philharmonikerstrasse 4, Vienna, Austria.
• Confeitaria Colombo - A beautifully ornate café that serves a unique fusion of Brazilian and Portuguese treats. Location: Rua Gonçalves Dias, 32 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.