Shaanxi Almond Cakes

Ingredients

While the French Financier traditionally uses butter, the Shaanxi Almond Cakes incorporate vegetable oil, which is commonly used in Shaanxi cuisine. Additionally, the Shaanxi version may include local ingredients such as jujube or goji berries to add a touch of regional flavor. We alse have the original recipe for Financier, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (120g) ground almonds 1 cup (120g) ground almonds
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs 3 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• Optional: jujube or goji berries for garnish Optional: jujube or goji berries for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 10g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a financier mold or a muffin tin.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the ground almonds, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and almond extract. Mix well until smooth.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the almond mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. 5.
   Pour the batter into the prepared mold or muffin tin, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
6. 6.
   If desired, place a jujube or goji berry on top of each cake for garnish.
7. 7.
   Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cakes are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the mold or tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground almonds — Ensure the almonds are finely ground to achieve a smooth texture in the cakes.
• Jujube or goji berries — If using jujube or goji berries for garnish, lightly press them into the batter before baking to ensure they stick.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra nutty flavor, toast the ground almonds before using them in the recipe.
• If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can increase the amount of sugar slightly.
• Serve the Shaanxi Almond Cakes with a cup of hot Shaanxi black tea for a perfect pairing.
• These cakes can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Shaanxi Almond Cakes as a delightful dessert or enjoy them with a cup of tea during a relaxing afternoon break.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Shaanxi Almond Cakes on a decorative plate and sprinkle them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also garnish with a few toasted almond slices.