Leipziger Lerche with Orange and Almonds Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated orange zest
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Electric mixer
- Grater
- Juicer

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Stir in the almonds, orange zest, and orange juice.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, sprinkle with confectioners' sugar.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8-10

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Protein: 4 g
Sodium: 80 mg

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: Salted butter
- Granulated sugar: Brown sugar
- Almonds: Walnuts
- Orange zest: Lemon zest
- Orange juice: Lemon juice

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries
- Substitute almond extract for the vanilla extract
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped dark chocolate

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature before beginning.
- For an extra orange flavor, add a teaspoon of orange extract.
- To make the cake extra moist, add 1/4 cup of sour cream.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the cake on a platter with fresh orange slices and mint leaves.

Garnishes:
- Orange slices
- Mint leaves
- Powdered sugar

Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Hot chocolate

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit
- Yogurt
- Ice cream

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is too dry, add a few tablespoons of orange juice or milk.
- If the cake is too crumbly, add a tablespoon of melted butter.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Clean and sanitize all utensils and surfaces before and after use.

Food History:
Leipziger Lerche is a traditional German cake that originated in the city of Leipzig. It is a light and airy cake that is usually served with a dusting of confectioners' sugar.

Flavor Profiles:
This cake has a light and sweet flavor with hints of orange and almond.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted almonds.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: German

Taste: Citrusy, Nutty, Sweet, Tart