Saffron Almond Cake Delights

This saffron almond cake offers a delightful blend of rich flavors, combining the earthy notes of saffron with the nutty crunch of almonds. It's a buttery cake that's both elegant and comforting, making it the perfect treat for special occasions or a cozy afternoon tea. The cake is wonderfully aromatic, with a golden hue lent by the saffron-infused milk, creating a visually appealing dessert as well. This cake's moist texture is beautifully paired with the subtle sweetness of raisins and the airy softness of a well-made batter. Its preparation involves traditional methods infused with a modern twist, making it ideal for adventurous bakers looking to expand their repertoire. The saffron threads diffuse a subtle fragrance throughout the batter, enriching every bite with their distinctive taste. With a light dusting of powdered sugar, this cake becomes a lightly sweetened indulgence, perfect on its own or with a side of fresh berries. This recipe is not only delicious but also an opportunity to explore the culinary use of saffron, one of the most intriguing spices in the world. For those looking to surprise and delight their guests, this cake is a surefire way to impress with its sophisticated flavors and beautiful presentation.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup milk
• 125 g sugar
• 250 g butter
• 500 g flour
• 25 g yeast

Spices

• Pinch of saffron
• 1/2 tsp salt

Additional Ingredients

• 50 g raisins
• 50 g almond flakes
• Powdered sugar

Preparation Time

Total: 120 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the batter. Cream the butter and sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.

2. Activate the yeast. Gently warm the milk and dissolve the yeast in it, stirring until completely combined. This will help the cake to rise properly during baking.

3. Combine dry ingredients. In another bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and raisins which have been lightly dusted with flour to prevent clumping in the batter.

4. Infuse the saffron. Pour hot milk over the saffron strands and allow them to steep for a few minutes, then strain the liquid through a sieve to capture the deep golden color and aroma.

5. Create the dough. Slowly incorporate the yeast mixture and the saffron-infused milk into the butter mixture, stirring continuously until well blended.

6. Mix thoroughly. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, and mix the dough thoroughly until it becomes smooth and elastic.

7. Prepare the baking tin. Grease a cake mold with butter and sprinkle with almond flakes, this will add a toasty crunch to the exterior of the cake.

8. Transfer the dough. Pour the prepared dough into the mold, pressing it down lightly to ensure an even surface.

9. Allow to rise. Cover the mold with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size, about an hour.

10. Preheat the oven. While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to moderate heat, around 180°C (356°F).

11. Bake the cake. Once risen, place the mold in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

12. Cool and serve. Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before removing it from the mold. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.

13. Decorate. Finish with a dusting of powdered sugar for a gentle touch of sweetness.

14. Enjoy the flavors. Serve the cake sliced and enjoy the delightful combination of saffron and almonds.

Tips

• For a more pronounced saffron flavor, increase the saffron amount slightly.
• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for an even batter.
• Substitute raisins with finely chopped dried apricots for a twist in flavor.

Nutritions

• Calories: 400 kcal per serving
• Protein: 5g
• Fats: 22g
• Carbs: 48g

Variations

• Use almond milk instead of regular milk for a lactose-free version.
• Substitute sugar with honey for a richer, more natural sweetness.
• Add a tablespoon of orange zest for a citrusy note.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt.
• Pair with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of herbal tea.
• Garnish with fresh berries for added freshness.

Best Places

1. Blancmange Bakery - Specializes in delicate, beautifully flavored cakes. Location: 12 Rue St, Paris, France.
2. The Cake House - Known for its assortment of exotic flavored cakes. Location: 45 King St, London, UK.
3. Sweet Symphony - Offers an array of traditional and modern sweet treats. Location: 234 Orchard Rd, Singapore.
4. Saffron Dreams - Features a menu rich with saffron-infused desserts. Location: 77 Caran St, Kyoto, Japan.
5. Raisin & Almond Bakes - Famous for using high-quality nuts and fruits. Location: 678 Bourbon St, New Orleans, USA.
6. Golden Threads Patisserie - A pastry shop celebrating saffron desserts. Location: 89 Blanchard Ave, Manchester, UK.
7. Le Gâteau d'Or - Known for its luxurious and artistic cakes. Location: 131 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, USA.
8. Delights of Persia - Offers a fusion of Persian flavors and traditional recipes. Location: 90 Tehran Ave, Tehran, Iran.
9. Almond Joy Bakery - A haven for nut lovers and dessert enthusiasts. Location: 101 Brighton Rd, Sydney, Australia.
10. The Golden Table - Elevates saffron into gourmet artistry. Location: 55 Saffron St, Mumbai, India.