If you’re looking to infuse your holiday season with a touch of Spanish charm, Marquesas Lemon Almond Cakes are a delightful choice. These tender, citrusy treats are a perfect combination of almond flour and zesty lemon, making them a unique addition to your Christmas baking repertoire. The light crumb and subtle sweetness of these cakes make them a versatile dessert that can either elevate a festive dinner table or be enjoyed with a cup of tea on a cozy afternoon.
**Marquesas Lemon Almond Cakes**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– Zest of 2 lemons
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
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 large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, combining until smooth.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cake comes out clean.
9. Allow the cakes to cool in the muffin tin for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust the Marquesas Lemon Almond Cakes with powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
11. Serve and enjoy the delicate flavors of these Spanish-inspired treats with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
These Marquesas Lemon Almond Cakes are a delightful way to add a touch of Mediterranean flair to your Christmas celebrations. The aromatic lemon, combined with the nutty almond flavor, creates a harmonious blend that is sure to impress your guests or simply make a cozy afternoon at home feel more special. The simplicity of this recipe makes it accessible to bakers of any skill level, and the result is a batch of tender, moist cakes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Add this recipe to your holiday baking tradition and savor the sweet taste of the season with every bite.
