Introduction
Welcome to a delightful baking adventure! This Almond Ricotta Coffee Cake is a treat that combines the nutty goodness of almond flour with the creamy texture of ricotta cheese. Each bite is a wonderful harmony of flavors that makes it perfect for a cozy morning coffee or a sweet afternoon snack. The addition of sliced almonds gives it an irresistible crunch, while a light dusting of powdered sugar adds the perfect finishing touch. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is sure to become a cherished favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan to ensure that your cake releases beautifully.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma.
- One by one, add the eggs, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for that warm, comforting flavor.
- Now, mix in the ricotta cheese until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated, adding richness to our cake batter.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender cake!
- Gently fold in half of the sliced almonds, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring a lovely rise.
- Sprinkle the remaining sliced almonds generously over the top of the batter for that extra special touch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For a beautiful presentation, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar before serving—simple, yet elegant!
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a hint of lemon zest to the batter. It complements the creamy ricotta beautifully!
Serve this cake with your favorite coffee or tea and enjoy the warmth it brings to your gatherings.
Cooking Techniques
When creaming butter and sugar, be sure to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy—this helps to incorporate air into the cake, leading to a delightful texture.
Folding in ingredients rather than stirring helps to keep the batter light and airy. This technique is key for achieving a tender cake.
FAQ
Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have ricotta on hand, you can substitute it with cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a different but equally delicious flavor.
How should I store leftover cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for longer storage!
Conclusion
This Almond Ricotta Coffee Cake is not just a recipe; it’s a warm embrace in dessert form. Whether enjoyed solo with your morning brew or shared with loved ones during a gathering, it promises to bring joy and satisfaction. So, preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and indulge in the delightful world of baking. Happy cooking!