Almond-Lemon Tea Cake

🍰 Almond-Lemon Tea Cake 🍋

Almond-Lemon tea cake is a delightful dessert that combines the nutty flavor of almonds with the bright zestiness of lemons. It’s a perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee, and its history and preparation make it a charming addition to any gathering. Here’s everything you need to know:

History:
The exact origin of the Almond-Lemon tea cake is not well-documented, but tea cakes in general have a long history, dating back to the 18th century. They were traditionally served during afternoon tea in England, hence the name. Over time, various versions of tea cakes have emerged, including the Almond-Lemon variation, which likely gained popularity for its unique combination of flavors.

Components:

1. Almonds: These provide a rich, nutty flavor and a wonderful texture to the cake.
2. Lemons: The zest and juice of lemons add a refreshing, citrusy tang to the cake.
3. Flour: All-purpose flour forms the base of the cake.
4. Sugar: Granulated sugar is used to sweeten the cake.
5. Butter: Unsalted butter is key for a tender and moist texture.
6. Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent and provide structure.
7. Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps the cake rise.
8. Milk: It adds moisture and creaminess to the batter.
9. Vanilla Extract: For a subtle, sweet aroma.
10. Salt: Just a pinch to enhance the flavors.

Steps to Prepare:

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

2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder. Add a pinch of salt and set it aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate mixing bowl, cream 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.

4. Add Eggs: Beat in 3 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

5. Add Lemon Zest and Juice: Mix in the zest of 2 lemons and the juice of 1 lemon. This will infuse the cake with a bright lemony flavor.

6. Add Almonds: Gradually fold in 1 cup of finely ground almonds into the batter.

7. Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients: Slowly add the dry flour mixture and 1/2 cup of milk to the batter, alternating between the two. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

8. Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a hint of sweetness.

9. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Total Time:
Preparing this Almond-Lemon Tea Cake should take approximately 20 minutes for preparation, plus 30-35 minutes for baking, and additional cooling time. In total, you can expect it to be ready to enjoy in around 1 hour.

So there you have it, a delicious Almond-Lemon Tea Cake with a rich history, delightful components, and a straightforward recipe. Enjoy your homemade treat with a nice cup of tea or coffee! 🍰🍋☕

Certainly! Here’s the nutrition information and some health considerations for Almond-Lemon Tea Cake:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 300-350 calories
• Total Fat: 20-25 grams
• Saturated Fat: 8-10 grams
• Cholesterol: 60-70 milligrams
• Sodium: 150-200 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 28-32 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
• Sugars: 15-18 grams
• Protein: 5-6 grams

Health Information:

1. Moderate Calories: Almond-Lemon Tea Cake is a moderately calorie-dense dessert. Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid excessive calorie intake.

2. Healthy Fats: Almonds provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can be beneficial when consumed in moderation.

3. Sugar Content: This cake contains a moderate amount of sugar. If you’re watching your sugar intake, you may want to enjoy it in moderation.

4. Protein: While it’s not a significant source of protein, almonds in the cake do contribute a bit. Consider adding a source of protein to your meal if needed.

5. Fiber: There’s a small amount of dietary fiber from the almonds, which can aid digestion, but it’s not a high-fiber dessert.

6. Sodium: The cake has a moderate sodium content. Be mindful of your overall sodium intake if you have dietary restrictions.

7. Portion Control: Enjoy this cake as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet, especially if you’re trying to manage your weight or blood sugar levels.

8. Nut Allergies: Be cautious if you or anyone you’re serving has nut allergies since almonds are a key ingredient.

9. Lemon Benefits: The use of lemon zest and juice adds a dose of vitamin C and antioxidants, which can be beneficial for your immune system and overall health.

10. Balance: Like all desserts, moderation is key. Balancing indulgent treats like Almond-Lemon Tea Cake with a well-rounded diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is a healthy approach.

Remember, the specific nutrition content may vary based on the exact ingredients and proportions used in your recipe, so it’s a good idea to calculate it using a nutrition calculator if you have specific dietary requirements or restrictions. Enjoy your Almond-Lemon Tea Cake in moderation as a delightful occasional treat! 🍰🍋