Mary Berry’s Almond Cake Recipe: A Nutty Delight
Mary Berry, a British baking legend, has shared her brilliant almond cake recipe. This classic dessert blends sweet and nutty flavours perfectly. It’s ideal for afternoon tea or special events.
Berry’s recipe is known for its simplicity and elegant results. The cake boasts a tender crumb and plenty of ground almonds. This creates a delightful nutty texture that pleases the palate.
This almond cake recipe suits both novice and expert bakers. Its widespread popularity proves the timeless charm of this British treat. You’ll be sure to impress with this delicious creation.
Introduction to Mary Berry’s Classic Almond Cake
Mary Berry’s almond cake recipe is a British baking gem. It blends decadent almond flavour with a light, moist sponge. This classic dessert strikes a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness.
The History Behind the Recipe
This beloved cake has roots in traditional British desserts. Almond-based treats have been a staple in British baking for generations. Mary Berry’s version honours these time-honoured traditions, elevating the classic almond cake.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Mary Berry’s almond cake shines with its sheer perfection. Ground almonds in the batter create a delightful texture and rich flavour. The simple method ensures a consistently moist and tender crumb.
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This versatile recipe suits various occasions, from casual gatherings to celebratory events. Its adaptability makes it a favourite among bakers and dessert lovers alike.
Key Features of Mary Berry’s Version
Several elements contribute to this cake’s enduring popularity. Ground almonds provide a nutty taste and delicate, crumbly texture. The recipe allows for additional ingredients like fruit or flavourings.
Its straightforward approach and reliable results have made it a beloved staple. This recipe truly shines in the world of British Mary Berry baking.
“Mary Berry’s almond cake is a true testament to the enduring appeal of traditional almond cake in British dessert history.”
Essential Ingredients and Equipment
Mary Berry’s classic almond cake requires high-quality ingredients and essential baking equipment. You’ll need ground almonds, self-raising flour, butter, sugar, and eggs at room temperature. These ingredients are crucial for the best results.
For equipment, you’ll need a mixing bowl, electric mixer, and cake tin. A 23 cm or 9-inch diameter tin is ideal. Don’t forget parchment paper to line the tin.
Optional extras include almond extract for extra nuttiness and flaked almonds for visual appeal. Selecting top-notch almond cake ingredients and proper baking equipment is key to mastering Mary Berry’s baking essentials.
“The secret to a great almond cake is using the best quality ingredients and paying close attention to the details.”
– Mary Berry
- Ground almonds
- Self-raising flour
- Unsalted butter (room temperature)
- Caster sugar
- Eggs (room temperature)
- Almond extract (optional)
- Flaked almonds (optional)
For the essential baking equipment, you’ll need:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- 23 cm (9-inch) cake tin
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Mary Berry’s classic almond cake is a delightful treat. It’s easy to make and bursting with flavour. Follow these steps carefully for the best results.
Preparing the Cake Tin
Grease and line a 20cm cake tin with baking paper. This helps the cake come out easily after baking. Preheat your oven to 180°C for optimal baking temperature.
Mixing the Batter
In a large bowl, cream 150g of softened unsalted butter and 150g of caster sugar until fluffy. Beat in 3 large eggs, one at a time. Fold in 150g of self-raising flour and 1 tsp of baking powder.
Stir in 1 tsp of almond extract and 100g of ground almonds. Mix until everything is well combined.
Baking Techniques
- Spoon the batter into the prepared tin, spreading it evenly.
- Arrange thinly sliced apple pieces over the top, pressing them in slightly.
- Sprinkle 25g of flaked almonds and 1-2 tbsp of demerara sugar over the cake.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, until a skewer comes out clean.
- Cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
These steps will help you create a perfect almond cake. The result is a balanced blend of flavours and textures. Enjoy your homemade Mary Berry classic!
Almond Cake Recipe Mary Berry
Mary Berry’s classic almond cake is a rich, buttery delight. It blends ground almonds with a moist crumb, creating a scrumptious treat. This recipe is perfect for both novice and expert bakers.
Ingredients for Mary Berry’s Almond Cake
- 75g/6oz raisins
- 350g/12oz natural glace cherries, halved, rinsed, and thoroughly dried
- 500g/1lb 2oz currants
- 350g/12oz sultanas
- 150ml/¼pt brandy or sherry, plus extra for feeding
- 2 oranges, zest only
- 250g/9oz butter, softened
- 250g/9oz light muscovado sugar
- 4 free-range eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tbsp black treacle
- 75g/3oz blanched almonds, chopped
- 250g/9oz plain flour
- 1½ tsp mixed spice
The secret to this recipe is soaking dried fruits overnight in brandy or sherry. This infuses the cake with a complex flavour. Remember to plan ahead as prep time is overnight.
Baking Instructions
Preheat your oven to 150°C/300°F/Gas 2. Grease and line a 23cm/9in round cake tin with baking parchment.
Mix soaked fruits, orange zest, butter, sugar, eggs, and treacle in a large bowl. Fold in chopped almonds, flour, and mixed spice until just combined.
Pour the batter into the tin and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes until a skewer comes out clean.
Cool the cake in the tin for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
You can feed the cooled cake with extra brandy or sherry for more flavour. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days.
| Nutrition Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 425 kcal |
| Fat | 21g |
| Carbohydrates | 54g |
| Protein | 6g |
This Mary Berry almond cake recipe is a gem in any British baking recipe collection. The nutty cake is perfect for special occasions or a cosy afternoon tea.
Tips for Perfect Texture and Flavour
Mary Berry’s classic almond cake requires attention to detail. Her expert tips help home cooks master this delightful recipe. These insights ensure the perfect texture and flavour every time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing the batter can result in a dense, tough crumb. Mary advises gently folding ingredients until just combined. This maintains a light, tender texture.
Overbaking is another issue to avoid. It can dry out the cake and reduce the almond flavour. Keep a close eye on baking time for best results.
Professional Baker’s Secrets
Mary emphasises the importance of using high-quality, fresh ingredients at the correct temperature. Room temperature eggs and butter incorporate seamlessly. Chilling the cake tin helps the batter hold its shape during baking.
Storage and Freshness Tips
- Store the almond cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, simply thaw the cake at room temperature or warm it in the oven for 5-10 minutes at 160°C (320°F).
Mary’s expert advice ensures a perfect almond cake. Home bakers can enjoy its delightful texture and flavour, whether served fresh or reheated later.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Mary Berry’s classic almond cake is a versatile dessert for any occasion. It can be dressed up or down to suit intimate afternoon teas or festive gatherings.
For an elegant look, dust the cake with icing sugar. This creates a beautiful contrast between the golden crust and snowy topping. You can also serve slices with whipped cream and juicy berries for a fruity twist.
Try adding lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy note. Or swap almonds for hazelnuts or walnuts to change the flavour profile. The options for customising this bake are endless.
Pair the cake with English breakfast tea or chilled Muscat wine. These drinks complement the nutty, sweet flavours perfectly. They allow the cake’s unique taste to shine through.
| Serving Suggestion | Flavour Pairing | Occasion |
|---|---|---|
| Dusted with icing sugar | Classic, elegant | Afternoon tea, special events |
| With whipped cream and berries | Fruity, indulgent | Casual gatherings, summer entertaining |
| Lemon zest in the batter | Bright, citrusy | Springtime celebrations, brunch |
| Paired with English breakfast tea | Comforting, traditional | Afternoon tea, cosy moments |
| Accompanied by Muscat wine | Sophisticated, dessert-friendly | Formal events, holiday parties |
Mary Berry’s almond cake offers a moist, nutty texture and endless serving options. Try these ideas to find your perfect way of enjoying this timeless British bake.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s almond cake recipe showcases her mastery of British baking. This classic dessert highlights the simplicity and delectable flavours that have made Berry’s creations beloved. The moist, nutty crumb exemplifies the enduring appeal of her baking approach.
This almond cake is perfect for casual afternoons or special occasions. Its straightforward instructions and common ingredients make it accessible for all bakers. The recipe’s adaptability allows for endless variations, ensuring each batch is unique.
Mary Berry’s almond cake is a prime example of British culinary excellence. Exploring Mary Berry’s best coconut cake further cements her status as a baking icon. Her recipes inspire home cooks to create classic, flavourful desserts in their kitchens.
FAQ
What are the key features of Mary Berry’s almond cake recipe?
Mary Berry’s almond cake boasts ground almonds for texture and flavour. The recipe offers a simple method with options to add fruit or flavourings. It’s known for its perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness.
What are the essential ingredients and equipment needed for this recipe?
Key ingredients include high-quality ground almonds, self-raising flour, butter, sugar, and eggs. You’ll need a mixing bowl, electric mixer, cake tin, and parchment paper.
What are the steps involved in preparing the almond cake?
Start by greasing and lining the cake tin. Mix ingredients carefully to create a smooth batter. Mary Berry often uses the all-in-one approach for simplicity.
Follow specific baking techniques to ensure even cooking. This helps achieve the perfect texture and flavour.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when baking this almond cake?
Avoid overbaking and incorrect measuring. Don’t overmix the batter. Ensure all ingredients are at the correct temperature before use.
How can the almond cake be served and what variations are possible?
Serve the almond cake with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of icing sugar. Try adding lemon zest or using different nuts for variety.
This versatile recipe can be adapted for different occasions. It’s perfect for both casual gatherings and special celebrations.
