Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Electric mixer
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
4. Add cocoa powder and mix until combined.
5. Alternately add flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with flour mixture.
6. Fold in chopped almonds.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow cake to cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8-10
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 300
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Butter: Can be substituted with vegan butter or coconut oil
- Milk: Can be substituted with almond milk or oat milk
- Almonds: Can be substituted with walnuts or pecans
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips to the batter for a more intense chocolate flavor
- Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy for a light and airy cake
- Be sure to fold in the almonds gently so as not to overmix the batter
Storage Instructions:
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the cake in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Dust the cake with powdered sugar before serving
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream
- Drizzle with melted chocolate
Garnishes:
- Chopped almonds
- Shaved chocolate
- Fresh berries
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Hot chocolate
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to the batter before baking.
- If the cake is too dense, add an extra egg to the batter before baking.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning.
- Be sure to use a clean bowl and utensils when preparing the batter.
- Always use an oven thermometer to ensure the oven is at the correct temperature.
Food History:
This cake is believed to have originated in the Middle East, where almonds and chocolate have been used in desserts for centuries.
Flavor Profiles:
This cake has a rich chocolate flavor with a hint of almond and a light, airy texture.
Serving Suggestions:
This cake is best served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.
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Taste: Rich, Sweet, Nutty, Chocolatey, rich, decadent, nutty, chocolatey, indulgent