๐ฐ Almond Sour Cream Pound Cake: A Delightful Dessert ๐ฐ
๐ History:
The Almond Sour Cream Pound Cake is a beloved dessert that has a rich history in Southern cuisine. Itโs a variation of the classic pound cake, known for its dense and buttery texture. The addition of almonds and sour cream gives it a unique flavor and moistness. This cake has been a staple in Southern baking for generations, often served at special occasions and family gatherings.
๐ง Components:
To make this delightful cake, youโll need the following components:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3 cups of granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 3 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 1 teaspoon of almond extract
- 1 cup of finely chopped almonds (you can toast them for extra flavor)
๐ฉโ๐ณ Preparation Steps:
Hereโs how you can prepare this scrumptious Almond Sour Cream Pound Cake:
-
Preheat your oven to 325ยฐF (160ยฐC) and grease and flour a 10-inch tube or bundt pan.
-
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
-
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
-
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
-
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
-
Stir in the almond extract and chopped almonds, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
-
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
-
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
-
Once cooled, you can drizzle with a simple almond glaze or dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
โฐ Total Time:
The total time needed to prepare and bake the Almond Sour Cream Pound Cake is approximately 2 hours, including preparation and baking time. However, cooling time may add an additional hour or so.
Enjoy this delicious cake with a cup of tea or coffee, or serve it as a delightful dessert at your next gathering! ๐ฐ๐ฅ๐ฝ๏ธ
๐ฐ Almond Sour Cream Pound Cake: Nutrition Facts and Health Information ๐ฐ
While the Almond Sour Cream Pound Cake is undeniably delicious, itโs important to be mindful of its nutritional content and how it fits into a balanced diet. Here are some general nutrition facts and health information for this cake:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 350-400 calories per slice (varies depending on serving size)
- Total Fat: 20-25 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10-12 grams
- Cholesterol: 80-100 milligrams
- Sodium: 150-200 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 40-45 grams
- Sugars: 25-30 grams
- Protein: 5-6 grams
Health Information:
-
Caloric Content: The cake is relatively high in calories, primarily due to the generous amount of butter and sugar. Itโs best enjoyed in moderation.
-
Saturated Fat: The cake contains a significant amount of saturated fat, which should be consumed in limited quantities to maintain heart health. Consider indulging in this treat occasionally.
-
Cholesterol: Eggs and butter contribute to the cakeโs cholesterol content. If youโre watching your cholesterol intake, be mindful of portion sizes.
-
Sugar: This cake is sweetened with a substantial amount of sugar. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to various health issues, so itโs advisable to savor it as an occasional treat.
-
Portion Control: To enjoy this dessert without overindulging, cut smaller slices and pair them with fresh fruit or a light yogurt for a more balanced treat.
-
Nutritional Benefits: While the cake isnโt particularly nutritious, it does provide some protein and a small amount of essential minerals from almonds. Almonds are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and vitamin E.
-
Allergen Information: Check for nut allergies among your guests, as the cake contains almonds and almond extract.
Remember that enjoying such desserts is a part of lifeโs pleasures, but itโs essential to balance them with a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains for overall health and well-being. Enjoy your Almond Sour Cream Pound Cake as an occasional indulgence! ๐ฐ๐๐ฅ