Albanian-style Hrapaćuša Cake

Ingredients

In this Albanian adaptation of Hrapaćuša, the traditional Croatian cake, we incorporate the flavors and ingredients commonly found in Albanian cuisine. The original recipe is enhanced with the addition of honey, which adds a distinct sweetness and depth of flavor. Additionally, the use of walnuts and cinnamon in the filling brings a warm and aromatic touch to the cake, reflecting the traditional Albanian flavor profiles. We alse have the original recipe for Torta hrapaćuša, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) almond flour 2 cups (240g) almond flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) honey 1/2 cup (120ml) honey
• 1 cup (120g) chopped walnuts 1 cup (120g) chopped walnuts
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 24g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 32g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• 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 almond flour, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. 3.
   Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the honey, chopped walnuts, and ground cinnamon.
5. 5.
   Spread the walnut filling evenly over the batter in the cake pan.
6. 6.
   Pour the remaining batter over the filling, spreading it carefully to cover the filling completely.
7. 7.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. 8.
   Allow the cake to cool completely before removing it from the pan.
9. 9.
   Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almond flour — Ensure that the almond flour is finely ground for a smooth texture in the cake.
• Honey — Use a high-quality honey to enhance the flavor of the cake.
• Walnuts — Toast the walnuts lightly before chopping them to bring out their natural nuttiness.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch of flavor, add a pinch of ground cloves to the batter.
• Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
• If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, increase the amount of ground cinnamon in the filling.

Serving advice

Serve the Albanian-style Hrapaćuša Cake at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. Cut it into slices and present it on a dessert platter for an elegant presentation.

Presentation advice

Dust the top of the cake generously with powdered sugar to create an appealing contrast against the golden color of the cake. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for an extra touch of elegance.