π°π° Almond Dream Coffee Cake π°π°
Almond Dream Coffee Cake is a delightful and scrumptious dessert that combines the nutty goodness of almonds with the rich flavors of coffee. This delectable treat is perfect for serving at breakfast or as an accompaniment to your afternoon coffee or tea. Let’s explore its history, components, preparation steps, and estimated time needed to make it. βπ
History:
The exact origin of Almond Dream Coffee Cake is a bit unclear, but coffee cakes have been enjoyed for centuries across various cultures. The combination of almonds and coffee in a cake likely emerged as a result of people’s love for coffee as a beverage and the desire to create baked goods that pair well with it. Over time, different variations of coffee cakes have evolved, with almond being a popular flavor choice due to its nutty and slightly sweet profile.
Components:
- Almond Flour: The primary ingredient that imparts the nutty flavor and texture to the cake.
- Coffee Flavor: Usually achieved through the addition of brewed coffee or instant coffee granules.
- Sugar: Provides sweetness to the cake.
- Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure.
- Baking Powder: Leavening agent for a light and fluffy texture.
- Almond Extract: Enhances the almond flavor.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
Steps to Prepare Almond Dream Coffee Cake:
Preparation Time: Approximately 15 minutes
Baking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
π Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
π Step 2: In a mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy.
π Step 3: Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
π Step 4: Mix in 1 1/2 cups of almond flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Blend until well combined.
π Step 5: Dissolve 2 tablespoons of instant coffee granules in 1/4 cup of hot water and add it to the batter. Mix until the coffee flavor is evenly distributed.
π Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
π Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
π Step 8: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
π Step 9: Optionally, you can drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a little milk over the cooled cake for added sweetness.
Total Time Estimate:
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Baking: 30-35 minutes
- Cooling: Varies, but allow at least 1 hour
So, in total, you can expect to spend around 1 hour and 45 minutes from start to finish, including cooling time. But the heavenly aroma and deliciousness of Almond Dream Coffee Cake will make it totally worth the effort! Enjoy your baking adventure! π°βπ
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Almond Dream Coffee Cake:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: Around 280-320 calories per serving (may vary based on serving size and ingredients used).
- Total Fat: Approximately 20-25 grams, with saturated fat making up a portion of it.
- Carbohydrates: About 20-30 grams, mainly from sugars and some dietary fiber.
- Protein: Around 5-7 grams per serving.
Health Information:
- Almonds: Almond flour used in this cake is a good source of healthy fats, primarily monounsaturated fats, which can support heart health.
- Protein: The cake contains a moderate amount of protein, which can help keep you feeling full and provide energy.
- Fiber: While coffee cake is not a high-fiber food, almond flour does contribute some dietary fiber, aiding digestion.
- Sugar: Be mindful of sugar content, as excess sugar intake can lead to health issues. You can consider reducing sugar or using alternatives like stevia or erythritol.
- Portion Control: Enjoying this cake in moderation is key to maintaining a balanced diet. Smaller portions can help control calorie intake.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you use certified gluten-free almond flour, this cake can be suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Remember, the nutritional content can vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving sizes used. It’s essential to enjoy treats like Almond Dream Coffee Cake as an occasional indulgence while maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for optimal health.
