Ingredients
Scale
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Ingredients Gathering:
- 1 cup almonds (finely ground)
- 3/4 cup honey
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 orange
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for a gluten-free version)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
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Almond-Honey Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan, gently heat the honey until it becomes runny but not boiling. Remove from heat and stir in the ground almonds, lemon zest, and orange zest. This mixture forms the flavorful base of your cake.
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Egg Incorporation:
- Separate the eggs, placing the whites in one bowl and the yolks in another. Whip the egg yolks until they are creamy, and then fold them into the almond-honey mixture. This step adds richness and moisture to the cake.
Instructions
Baking Instructions
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Egg Whites:
- Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. This introduces air into the batter, ensuring the cake is light and fluffy.
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Combining the Mixtures:
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the almond-honey mixture, taking care not to deflate the air bubbles. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
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Flour Addition:
- Sift the flour and baking powder together and fold them into the batter, ensuring a smooth, lump-free mixture.
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Baking the Cake:
- Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch (23 cm) cake pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cooling:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential for the cake to set properly.
Serving Suggestions
The Italian Hangover Cake is best served at room temperature or slightly warmed. To enhance its flavors and presentation:
- Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with additional lemon and orange zest.
- Pair with a strong Italian coffee or a sweet dessert wine for a truly indulgent experience.
Notes
In keeping with Italian tradition, the presentation of the cake is almost as important as its taste. Serve it on a beautiful plate, garnished with fresh citrus slices or a sprig of mint, to elevate the experience from simply eating cake to enjoying a piece of Italian culinary art.