Persian Love Cake
Category: Desserts
Serves: 8
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Almond flour | 360g |
| Sugar | 150g |
| Brown sugar | 200g |
| Fine salt | A pinch |
| Butter | 120g |
| Eggs | 110g |
| Greek yogurt | 250g |
| Nutmeg | 2g |
| Rose water | 3g |
| Chopped pistachios | 25g |
| Butter (for greasing) | 5g |
| Rice flour | 10g |
| Rose petals (for garnish) | To taste |
| Powdered sugar (for dusting) | To taste |
Instructions
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Prepare the base: Start by sifting the almond flour through a fine-mesh sieve. Once sifted, mix it with the brown sugar until well combined. Add the softened butter (cut into small cubes) and blend it into the flour-sugar mixture. The texture should resemble breadcrumbs.
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Prepare the pan: Grease a round 24 cm (9.5 inches) cake pan with butter and lightly dust it with rice flour to prevent the cake from sticking. Press the prepared almond-flour mixture into the base of the pan. Use the back of a spoon to compact it evenly.
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Mix the batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, Greek yogurt, and a pinch of nutmeg. Blend until smooth. Add the rose water and stir until combined.
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Assemble the cake: Pour the yogurt mixture over the almond-flour base in the cake pan. Spread it out gently using a spoon to ensure an even layer. Shake the pan slightly to level the batter. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios evenly around the edge of the cake batter, creating a beautiful border.
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Bake the cake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F), and bake the cake in the middle rack for 45-50 minutes. The cake should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch.
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Cool and decorate: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before gently transferring it to a serving platter. Decorate the top with fresh, untreated rose petals for an elegant touch. Dust the cake with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Variations:
- Storage: This cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Keep it covered to retain its moisture.
- Flavor Twist: Add a touch of orange blossom water for a unique floral note that complements the rose water.
- Presentation: For an even more lavish look, sprinkle extra chopped pistachios on top and garnish with edible gold flakes.
Enjoy this Persian Love Cake as a sweet treat for any occasion, from a simple afternoon tea to a special celebration. The delicate flavors of almond, rose water, and pistachios come together in this charming dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
