Almond Cake with Avocado Cream

This almond cake with avocado cream is a delightful and unique dessert that brings together the nuttiness of almonds and the creaminess of avocados. The cake base is a delicate almond-infused sponge, perfectly balanced with the creamy and slightly tangy avocado topping. The almonds lend a wonderful texture and flavor, while the avocado cream adds a fresh and luxurious touch. This dessert is ideal for any occasion, from a casual tea party to a formal celebration. The cake's subtle sweetness and rich texture make it a favorite among those looking for something different yet comforting. It’s both visually appealing and tastes divine, making it a hit with both kids and adults. The cake can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. This recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Customize it with variations to cater to different taste preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• For the Cream:

  • 2 avocados
  • 1/2 lemon
  • 130 g almonds
  • 100 g sugar
  • 50 g powdered sugar
  • 60 ml water
  • Few drops of almond essence
  • 100 g white chocolate

• For the Sponge:

  • 150 g butter
  • 150 g almonds
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 100 g flour
  • 150 g sugar

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 120 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Almonds: Pour boiling water over the almonds and let them sit for 10 minutes. Drain and peel the almonds. Toast them in the oven at 180 degrees for 20 minutes until golden and fragrant. Let them cool, then blend into a fine flour.

2. Make the Sponge Batter: Cream the butter with sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually whisk in the egg yolks and whole eggs one at a time to ensure a smooth mixture.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients: Add the baking powder to the almond flour, then gently fold this mixture into the butter mixture. Stir in the regular flour until just combined.

4. Bake the Sponge: Pour the batter into a greased baking tin lined with parchment paper for easy removal. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning and bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees for about 40 minutes. After removing the foil, continue baking until a knife inserted emerges clean.

5. Cool the Sponge: Once baked, let the sponge cool completely before assembling.

6. Prepare the Avocado Cream: Blend the ripe avocados with lemon juice until smooth.

7. Process the Almonds for Cream: Soak unpeeled almonds in hot water for 15 minutes, then peel easily. Return to the oven to toast lightly. Cool and blend with 50 g of powdered sugar until finely milled.

8. Make the Syrup: In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Simmer gently for 7 minutes, add lemon juice, and check if the syrup forms a soft ball in cold water. If not, cook a little longer.

9. Combine Syrup and Almond Flour: Stir the almond flour into the syrup until you achieve a homogeneous mass. Blend with the avocado puree until smooth. If needed, blend again for a more refined texture.

10. Chill the Cream: Refrigerate the creamy mixture for at least an hour to thicken.

11. Assemble the Cake: Slice the sponge horizontally and spread half the cream between the layers. Cover the entire cake with the remaining cream.

12. Let the Flavors Set: For best results, allow the cake to rest for a few hours before serving.

13. About the Cream: The cream will be sticky yet thick, retaining its shape well.

14. Enjoy: Your almond cake with avocado cream is ready to be served for any occasion.

Tips

• Substitutions: Substitute almond flour with hazelnut flour for a different flavor profile.
• To prevent browning, cover the avocado mixture immediately with plastic wrap.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450 per serving
• Protein: 6g
• Fats: 30g
• Carbs: 40g

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour for the sponge to accommodate dietary needs.
• Sugar-Free Option: Substitute sugar and powdered sugar with a sugar alternative suitable for baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Dust with cocoa powder or decorate with sliced almonds for extra crunch.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a rich contrast.

Best Places

1. Blue Bottle Coffee - Known for its artisanal approach to coffee and pastries. Location: 300 Webster St, Oakland, USA.
2. Café de la Paix - Offers exquisite French pastries and scenery. Location: 12 Boulevard des Capucines, Paris, France.
3. Café Central - A historic café known for its cakes and ambiance. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
4. Pasticceria Marchesi - Renowned for luxurious and traditional Italian sweets. Location: Via Monte Napoleone, 9, Milan, Italy.
5. The Cupping Room - Known for innovative coffee and food pairings. Location: 299 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong.
6. La Colombe - Offers rich blends and sweet accompaniments. Location: 1335 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, USA.
7. Bettys Café Tea Rooms - Famous for its timeless afternoon tea. Location: 1 Parliament St, Harrogate, UK.
8. Konditorei Demel - Offers traditional Austrian treats in a regal setting. Location: 1, Kohlmarkt, 1010 Wien, Austria.
9. Dominique Ansel Bakery - Home of the original Cronut and other innovative bakes. Location: 189 Spring St, New York, USA.
10. Suvlaki Amsterdam - Known for gourmet desserts with a Greek twist. Location: Gerstekorrel 22, Amsterdam, Netherlands.