Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated.
5. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
6. Add the dry ingredients in two batches, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
7. Fold in the almonds and apricots.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8-10 servings
Nutritional Information: N/A
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Unsalted butter can be substituted for salted butter, just omit the salt from the recipe.
- Almonds can be substituted for any other type of nut.
- Dried apricots can be substituted for any other type of dried fruit.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries for a different flavor.
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Substitute the cinnamon for 1 teaspoon of ground ginger or nutmeg for a different flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature before creaming with the sugar.
- Be sure to not overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing.
Storage Instructions:
The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
The cake can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
- Dust the cake with powdered sugar before serving.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.
- Drizzle with a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and a few tablespoons of milk.
Garnishes:
- Fresh berries
- Chopped nuts
- Chocolate shavings
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Milk
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Yogurt
- Muffins
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is too dense, make sure to not overmix the batter.
- If the cake is too dry, make sure to not overbake it.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Make sure to store the cake in an airtight container.
Food History:
Cassatella di Sant'Agata is a traditional Italian cake that originated in the city of Catania, Sicily. It is a light and fluffy cake that is usually served as a dessert or snack.
Flavor Profiles:
This cake has a light and fluffy texture with a hint of cinnamon and sweetness from the almonds and apricots.
Serving Suggestions:
This cake is best served as a dessert or snack. It can also be served with a cup of coffee or tea.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Italian