Moldovan Almond Cake

Ingredients

In the original Hungarian Mandulat, the cake is typically made with ground almonds, sugar, and eggs. However, in this Moldovan adaptation, we incorporate local ingredients such as Moldovan almonds and honey to enhance the flavor profile. Additionally, we adjust the sweetness level to align with Moldovan taste preferences. We alse have the original recipe for Mandulat, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (120g) ground Moldovan almonds 1 cup (120g) ground Moldovan almonds
• 1 cup (200g) sugar 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 4 eggs 4 eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 42g, 25g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a round cake pan.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, ground Moldovan almonds, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until well combined.
5. 5.
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
6. 6.
   Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. 7.
   Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. 8.
   Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Moldovan almonds — Use fresh and high-quality Moldovan almonds for the best flavor and texture.
• Almond extract — Adjust the amount of almond extract according to your preference for a stronger or milder almond flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For added richness, you can serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• If you prefer a more pronounced almond flavor, sprinkle some sliced almonds on top of the cake before baking.
• To make the cake extra moist, brush it with a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water while it is still warm.

Serving advice

Serve the Moldovan Almond Cake at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. It pairs well with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar just before serving to add a touch of elegance. You can also garnish with a few whole almonds for a visually appealing presentation.