Citrus Almond Cake

The Citrus Almond Cake is a delightful blend of zesty citrus and nutty almond flavors, offering a moist and fragrant dessert option. This cake boasts a soft, tender crumb that is beautifully balanced with the aromatic hint of cinnamon. The use of ground almonds instead of traditional flour makes this cake not only gluten-free but also adds a rich texture. It’s a perfect treat for those who enjoy desserts with a touch of sophistication and subtlety. The golden-brown crust provides a satisfying contrast to the light, fluffy interior, while the powdered sugar dusting adds an elegant finish. This cake is versatile, suitable for casual afternoon tea or more formal gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or a light dessert wine. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a standout choice for any occasion. This recipe provides an exquisite dessert option that is sure to impress your guests with its flavorful depth and aromatic richness.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 large eggs
150 g sugar
Zest of 1 lemon (grated)
200 g ground almonds
50 g powdered sugar

Spices

1 tsp ground cinnamon

Preparation Time

Total: 110 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 160°C.
Grease a 23 cm cake tin with butter or non-stick spray, then line with parchment paper for easier removal after baking.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, lemon zest, and ground cinnamon until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
Gently fold in the ground almonds, making sure not to deflate the whipped eggs to maintain the cake’s light texture.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and level the surface with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the cake in the tin for 10 minutes, allowing it to firm up slightly, ensuring easier handling.
Remove the cake from the tin and place on a wire rack to cool completely. Carefully peel away the parchment paper.
Once fully cooled, sift the powdered sugar over the top for a decorative dusting before serving.
Enjoy your delicious cake with a side of fresh fruits, if desired, or by itself for a simple, elegant treat.

Tips

Ensure the eggs are at room temperature before whisking for better volume.
For a more intense lemon flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to the batter.
You can substitute ground cinnamon with ground nutmeg or cardamom for a different spice note.

Nutritions (per serving)

Calories: 280
Protein: 7g
Fats: 18g
Carbs: 24g

Variations

Chocolate Twist: Add 50 g of cocoa powder for a chocolate-almond variation.
For a vegan option, replace eggs with a suitable egg substitute like aquafaba.
Low-sugar version: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol instead of regular sugar.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Pair with a cup of espresso or a light afternoon tea.

Best Places

Pastelería Mallorca - Known for elegant pastries in a cozy setting. Location: Velázquez 59, Madrid, Spain.
Cafe Savoy - Offers classic European pastries in an art nouveau café. Location: Vítězná 5, Prague, Czech Republic.
Pâtisserie Stohrer - Historic patisserie with an array of classic French pastries. Location: Rue Montorgueil 51, Paris, France.
Café Central - A traditional coffeehouse with a variety of cakes. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
Ladurée - Famous for its luxurious macarons and delicate cakes. Location: Rue Royale 16, Brussels, Belgium.
Conditorei Schober - A charming spot for cakes and confectioneries. Location: Napfgasse 4, Zurich, Switzerland.
Café Imperial - Offers traditional cakes in a plush setting. Location: Na Poříčí 15, Prague, Czech Republic.
Demel - Historic pastry shop with beautifully crafted desserts. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
Caffè Gilli - Iconic coffeehouse with a rich history of desserts. Location: Via Roma 1/R, Florence, Italy.
Pastelería Escribà - Known for creative and delectable cakes. Location: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes 546, Barcelona, Spain.