Zhejiang-style Almond Cake

Ingredients

While the original Toucinho do céu is made with ground almonds, sugar, and egg yolks, the Zhejiang-style Almond Cake incorporates the unique flavors of Zhejiang cuisine. This adaptation includes the addition of honey, which adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the overall taste. The cake also features a golden-brown crust, giving it a delightful textural contrast. These modifications create a harmonious fusion of Portuguese and Zhejiang culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Toucinho do céu, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) almond flour 2 cups (240g) almond flour
• 1 cup (240ml) honey 1 cup (240ml) honey
• 6 egg yolks 6 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup (60ml) rice wine 1/4 cup (60ml) rice wine
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• Sliced almonds, for garnish Sliced almonds, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 24g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 24g, 20g
• Protein: 6g
• 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 mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, honey, egg yolks, vegetable oil, rice wine, salt, and almond extract. Mix well until smooth.
3. 3.
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the batter for garnish.
5. 5.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. 6.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almond flour — Ensure that the almond flour is finely ground for a smooth texture in the cake batter.
• Honey — Use high-quality honey to enhance the flavor of the cake.
• Rice wine — Opt for a mild rice wine to add a subtle depth of flavor to the cake.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced almond flavor, toast the almond flour before using it in the recipe.
• If you prefer a sweeter cake, drizzle some honey over the top after it has cooled.
• Serve the Zhejiang-style Almond Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
• Experiment with different types of nuts, such as walnuts or cashews, to create unique variations of this cake.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Zhejiang-style Almond Cake at room temperature to fully appreciate its delicate flavors and silky texture. Cut it into slices and present it on a decorative platter for an elegant touch.

Presentation advice

Dust the top of the Zhejiang-style Almond Cake with a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving to add a touch of elegance. Garnish the platter with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a visually appealing presentation.