German Christmas baking is a delightful tradition that fills homes with warmth and the sweet smell of freshly baked treats. One such classic recipe is Mandelkuchen, a scrumptious Almond Cake that perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season. This cake features a rich almond flavor and a moist, tender crumb that is sure to be a favorite at any festive gathering. Follow along to create your own Mandelkuchen and bring a piece of German holiday cheer to your home this season.
**Mandelkuchen Almond Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp almond extract
– Sliced almonds, for topping
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This can be done with an electric mixer or by hand for a good arm workout!
4. Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps incorporate air into the batter for a lighter texture.
5. Stir in the almond extract, giving the cake its distinctive nutty flavor. Almond extract is a key ingredient in authentic Mandelkuchen.
6. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle sliced almonds over the surface of the cake for a decorative touch and added crunch.
8. Bake the Mandelkuchen in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake will be golden brown and fragrant when ready.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve your delicious Mandelkuchen with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, if desired.
Enjoy this traditional German Almond Cake with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a cozy holiday treat that will surely impress your friends and family. The rich almond flavor and moist texture of the Mandelkuchen are a true taste of Christmas, perfect for festive gatherings or a quiet evening at home by the fireplace. Embrace the spirit of the season with this delightful recipe that is sure to become a beloved tradition in your own home. Happy baking!
