Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the Egyptian hazelnut cake! This cake is a dreamy combination of rich, nutty flavors and moist, tender crumb that just melts in your mouth. I first stumbled upon this gem during a family gathering, and it quickly became a favorite at our celebrations. The aroma of hazelnuts wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone swoon! My aunt would always bake it for special occasions, and I can still remember sneaking a piece while it was still warm, the sweetness perfectly complemented by a light dusting of powdered sugar on top. Trust me, once you try this cake, it’ll steal your heart just like it did mine. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, or even just a cozy afternoon at home!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup ground hazelnuts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Prepare the Egyptian Hazelnut Cake
Alright, let’s dive into making this delightful Egyptian hazelnut cake! I promise you, it’s easier than you might think, and the results are simply heavenly. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a slice in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when your cake goes in!
- In a spacious bowl, mix together the ground hazelnuts, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Give it a good stir to combine all those lovely dry ingredients.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes; you want it to look light and airy.
- Now, add the melted butter and vanilla extract to the egg mixture, and stir well until everything is fully incorporated.
- Next, gently fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Do this carefully so you don’t deflate that wonderful fluffiness you just created!
- Once combined, pour your batter into a greased cake pan. Make sure to spread it evenly so it bakes uniformly.
- Pop it in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean!
- When it’s ready, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience here is key; you want it to set just right!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
- The rich, nutty flavor of hazelnuts creates a truly indulgent dessert experience.
- Moist and tender, every bite is a delightful treat that’s hard to resist.
- Ideal for celebrations, this cake brings a festive touch to any occasion.
- Versatile enough to be served as a simple afternoon snack or dressed up for a fancy dinner party.
- Simple ingredients make it accessible for home bakers of all skill levels.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) stay fresh and delicious for days, making it a great make-ahead option.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Egyptian hazelnut cake turns out perfectly every time! Here are some of my favorite tips that have helped me achieve that dreamy texture and flavor.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and melted butter are at room temperature before you start. This helps them combine more smoothly, creating a better batter!
- Don’t Overmix: When you fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, do it gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want it light and airy!
- Grease the Pan Well: Use butter or non-stick spray to grease your cake pan thoroughly. This will prevent any sticking and make for a beautiful release when you flip it out.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off, just to be safe!
- Let It Cool: Don’t rush the cooling process! Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then move it to a wire rack. This ensures it sets properly and won’t crumble when you slice it.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps the cake moist and delicious for days!
- Add Flavor: Feel free to experiment! A pinch of cinnamon or a splash of orange blossom water can add an extra layer of flavor that’ll make your cake even more special.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to baking the perfect Egyptian hazelnut cake! Enjoy the process and happy baking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up a bit, there are plenty of delicious variations for the Egyptian hazelnut cake that can take it to the next level. Here are some of my favorite ideas!
- Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle a rich chocolate ganache over the cooled cake for an indulgent twist. Just melt some chocolate with heavy cream, let it cool slightly, and pour it over your cake to create a luscious topping.
- Nutty Bliss: Try mixing in other nuts like almonds or walnuts along with the hazelnuts for a delightful crunch and flavor variation. You can also top the cake with chopped nuts before baking for a beautiful presentation.
- Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for fall or winter gatherings.
- Citrus Zing: A splash of orange or lemon juice, or even some zest, can brighten up the flavors beautifully. Just mix it into the wet ingredients for a refreshing twist!
- Fruit Topping: Serve slices of the cake with fresh berries or poached pears on top for a beautiful, seasonal touch. A dollop of whipped cream never hurts either!
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this cake more accessible for those with dietary restrictions. Just ensure the blend is suitable for baking!
These variations not only keep things exciting but also allow you to customize the cake according to your taste or the occasion. So, go ahead and experiment—your perfect slice awaits!
Nutritional Information
Before you dive into this delicious Egyptian hazelnut cake, it’s good to know what you’re indulging in! Just a heads up, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Here’s a general idea of what to expect per slice:
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 6g
Keep in mind, these values are just a ballpark figure. Enjoy your cake while being mindful of your nutritional goals, and remember that balance is key! Happy baking and savoring!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve baked this gorgeous Egyptian hazelnut cake, let’s make sure it stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible! Proper storage is key to keeping that moist texture intact.
To store any leftovers (if there are any!), let the cake cool completely at room temperature. Once it’s cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will help keep it from drying out. You can store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, it’s best to pop it in the fridge, where it can last about a week.
If you prefer to freeze it, you can slice the cake and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label it with the date so you know when to enjoy it!
When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, there’s no need to stress about reheating. If it’s been in the fridge, simply take out a slice and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to take the chill off. For that lovely fresh-baked feel, you can warm it up in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overdo it, or it might dry out!
For frozen slices, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours. You can also warm them up in the microwave as mentioned above. Just like that, you’ll have a delightful piece of cake ready to satisfy your sweet tooth again. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?
Absolutely! While this recipe is all about hazelnuts, you can swap them out for almonds, walnuts, or even pecans. Just remember, each nut will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the cake!
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
A great way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs clinging to it, your cake is ready! If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this Egyptian hazelnut cake is perfect for making in advance! You can bake it a day or two ahead of when you plan to serve it. Just be sure to store it properly to keep it fresh!
What should I serve with the cake?
This cake is delicious on its own, but you can dress it up with a dusting of powdered sugar, a scoop of ice cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate ganache. Fresh fruit like berries or poached pears also pairs beautifully!
Is this cake suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This Egyptian hazelnut cake is completely vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for gatherings with different dietary preferences.
Can I freeze the cake?
Definitely! If you want to save some for later, just slice the cake, wrap each slice in plastic wrap, and store them in an airtight container in the freezer. They’ll be good for about two months!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, the fridge is your best bet!
Egyptian Hazelnut Cake: 7 Reasons You’ll Fall in Love
- Temps Total: 50 minutes
- Rendement: 8 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
Egyptian hazelnut cake is a rich and moist dessert that combines ground hazelnuts and a hint of sweetness. It’s perfect for celebrations or as an afternoon treat.
Ingrédients
- 1 cup ground hazelnuts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix ground hazelnuts, flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until pale.
- Add melted butter and vanilla to the egg mixture and stir well.
- Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture.
- Pour the batter into a greased cake pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar.
- You can add chocolate ganache for extra richness.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 35 minutes
- Catégorie: Dessert
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: Egyptian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sucre: 15g
- De Sodium: 150mg
- La graisse: 12g
- Graisses Saturées: 5g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 7g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 30g
- La fibre: 2g
- La protéine: 6g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 70mg
Mots-clés: Egyptian hazelnut cake, dessert, baking, cake
