Almond-Berry Coffee Cake

🍰 Almond-Berry Coffee Cake 🍇

Almond-Berry Coffee Cake is a delightful and indulgent baked treat that combines the rich flavors of almonds, sweet berries, and a moist cake base. It’s a perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea, making it a beloved choice for breakfast or brunch.

📜 History:
The exact origins of Almond-Berry Coffee Cake are a bit elusive, but coffee cakes, in general, have a rich history dating back to Northern Europe. They were traditionally served with coffee, hence the name, and were a way to enjoy a sweet treat during coffee breaks. Over time, variations of coffee cake have evolved, incorporating regional ingredients and flavors. The addition of almonds and berries likely adds a modern twist to this classic concept.

🥖 Components:

1. Cake Base: The foundation of the coffee cake is a tender, moist, and slightly sweet cake layer.
2. Almond Topping: This typically includes sliced or chopped almonds, sugar, and sometimes butter to create a crunchy, nutty layer on top.
3. Berry Filling: Fresh or frozen berries, such as raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries, are commonly used to add a burst of fruity flavor.
4. Streusel: Some recipes may include a streusel topping, which is a mixture of butter, sugar, and flour, often spiced with cinnamon.

📝 Steps to Prepare Almond-Berry Coffee Cake:

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup fresh or frozen mixed berries
• ½ cup sliced almonds
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.

2. Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Alternate Mixing: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.

6. Prepare Toppings: In a small bowl, combine the sliced almonds, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Toss the berries in a little flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake.

7. Assemble: Spread half of the cake batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the almond mixture and half of the berries over the batter. Repeat with the remaining batter, almonds, and berries.

8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve!

⏱️ Time Needed:

• Preparation: Approximately 20 minutes
• Baking: 40-45 minutes
• Cooling: 10-15 minutes

Enjoy your homemade Almond-Berry Coffee Cake, a delightful combination of nutty, fruity, and sweet flavors that’s perfect for any occasion! 🍰🍓☕

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Almond-Berry Coffee Cake:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for a Serving):

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Total Fat: 15-20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7-9g
• Cholesterol: 40-50mg
• Sodium: 200-250mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 35-40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
  • Sugars: 20-25g
• Protein: 4-5g

Health Information:

1. Calorie Content: Almond-Berry Coffee Cake can be quite calorie-dense due to its sugar, butter, and almond content. It’s best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat.

2. Fat: The cake contains a moderate amount of fat, primarily from butter and almonds. While some fats are essential for flavor and texture, too much saturated fat can contribute to heart health concerns. Consider using healthier fat alternatives in your recipe.

3. Sugar: Coffee cakes tend to be sweet, and the sugar content can be high. Excess sugar consumption may lead to weight gain and dental issues. You can reduce sugar by using sugar substitutes or cutting back on sugar in the recipe.

4. Fiber: The cake may contain some dietary fiber, mainly from the flour and possibly berries. Fiber is beneficial for digestive health, and incorporating more fiber-rich ingredients can enhance the cake’s nutritional profile.

5. Protein: While not a significant source of protein, coffee cake does provide a small amount. Adding nuts and seeds can increase the protein content and provide some essential nutrients.

6. Berries: Berries are a nutritious addition, rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. They contribute to the overall healthfulness of the cake.

7. Portion Control: To enjoy this coffee cake without overindulging, be mindful of portion sizes. Cutting smaller slices can help manage calorie and sugar intake.

8. Variations: Consider making healthier substitutions, such as using whole-grain flour, reducing sugar, and opting for low-fat dairy products to create a lighter version of the cake.

Remember that the exact nutritional values can vary depending on the specific recipe and portion size. It’s always a good idea to consult with a nutritionist or dietitian for personalized dietary advice based on your individual health needs and goals. Enjoy your Almond-Berry Coffee Cake in moderation as part of a balanced diet. 🍰🍓🥜