π°ππ° Amazing Orange Almond Pound Cake (Gluten-Free) π°ππ°
What is it?
The Amazing Orange Almond Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the zesty freshness of oranges with the nutty richness of almonds. Itβs a gluten-free variation of the classic pound cake, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. This cake is known for its dense, moist texture and a burst of citrusy flavor thatβs beautifully complemented by the subtle almond undertones.
History:
The history of pound cake dates back to Europe in the 18th century, where it got its name from the original recipeβs simple ratio of one pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. Over time, variations like the orange almond pound cake emerged, adding diverse flavors and ingredients to the traditional recipe to create unique and mouthwatering desserts.
Components:
To make this gluten-free Amazing Orange Almond Pound Cake, youβll need:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- Zest of 2 oranges
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
Steps to Prepare:
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Preheat your oven to 325Β°F (163Β°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23 cm) loaf pan or use parchment paper for easy removal.
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In a bowl, whisk together the almond flour, gluten-free all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
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In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
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Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
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Mix in the orange zest, freshly squeezed orange juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Your batter will have a wonderful orange aroma.
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Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
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Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Once cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar, garnish with orange slices or slivered almonds for that extra touch of elegance.
Total Time:
The preparation time for this Amazing Orange Almond Pound Cake, including baking and cooling, is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. So, you can enjoy this delectable gluten-free treat in just a little over an hour and a half!
Remember, this cake is not only a delight for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes with its lovely orange hue and aromatic appeal. Enjoy your baking adventure! π°ππ°π
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for the Amazing Orange Almond Pound Cake (Gluten-Free):
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approximate values):
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Total Fat: 26-28g
- Saturated Fat: 12-14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14-16g
- Cholesterol: 100-120mg
- Sodium: 200-220mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25-27g
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
- Sugars: 20-22g
- Protein: 6-7g
Health Information:
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Almond Flour: Almond flour is a good source of healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, and is naturally low in carbohydrates. It also provides some protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin E and magnesium.
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Oranges: Oranges are rich in vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that supports immune health and skin health. They also provide dietary fiber and various other vitamins and minerals.
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Gluten-Free: This cake is gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Gluten-free diets are essential for those who need to avoid gluten for medical reasons.
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Moderation: While this cake can be enjoyed in moderation, itβs important to be mindful of portion sizes due to its calorie and sugar content. The use of almond flour can provide some satiety compared to traditional flour.
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Balanced Diet: As with any dessert, itβs best to enjoy it as part of a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
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Customization: You can make this cake healthier by reducing the sugar content, using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, and adding more orange zest for flavor without added sugar.
Remember, while this cake can be a delightful treat, itβs essential to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet to maintain a healthy lifestyle.