Técula Mécula - Spanish Almond Cake

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) almond flour 2 cups (240g) almond flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon orange zest 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 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
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 1.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 24g, 20g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.1g

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 almond flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, lemon zest, orange zest, 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 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. 7.
   Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. 8.
   Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almond flour — Ensure that you are using finely ground almond flour for the best texture in the cake.
• Lemon and orange zest — Use organic citrus fruits for the zest to avoid any bitterness from pesticides.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a splash of Amaretto liqueur to the batter.
• Serve the Técula Mécula with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
• If you prefer a more intense almond flavor, you can add a few drops of almond extract to the powdered sugar used for dusting.

Serving advice

Serve the Técula Mécula at room temperature to fully appreciate its flavors and texture. Cut it into wedges and present it on a dessert plate, dusted with powdered sugar. Add a sprig of fresh mint or a few berries for an elegant touch.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, you can garnish the cake with toasted almond slices or drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice over the top. This will add a glossy finish and a touch of tanginess.