As I scrolled through my Instagram feed, a recipe for a blueberry almond tea cake caught my eye. The combination of fresh blueberries, almonds, and a hint of lemon in this cake intrigued me. Swapping traditional white flour for almond flour not only adds a unique twist but also brings a healthier touch to this delightful dessert.
This blueberry almond cake is a celebration of the vibrant flavors of fresh blueberries, complemented by the nuttiness of almonds. The addition of almond extract enhances the overall richness of the cake, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether enjoyed with a morning cup of tea or served as a sweet treat for any occasion, this moist and flavorful cake is sure to impress with its simple yet elegant presentation.
Ingredients
Creating a delectable blueberry almond tea cake requires a handful of essential components. Let’s dive into the key ingredients for this delightful treat.
Blueberry Almond Tea Cake
- 34 cup plus 15 TBSP unsalted butter
- 34 cup plus 35 TBSP sugar
- Zest of one lemon, grated
- 4 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 cups almond meal
- 14 cup plus 1 TBSP flour
- 14 tsp baking powder
- 14 tsp salt
- 14 cup lemon juice
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- Feel free to experiment with different types of berries, like raspberries, in place of blueberries.
- For a nut-free version, you can substitute almond meal with an equal amount of all-purpose flour.
- Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a flavor twist.
Equipment Needed
When preparing blueberry almond tea cakes, you don’t need any specialized equipment. The beauty of these delectable treats lies in their simplicity and ease of preparation. Here’s a list of the basic tools you’ll need to create these delightful cakes:
- Muffin Tin: You’ll require a standard muffin tin to bake the individual tea cakes. This allows for uniform baking and ease of serving.
- Mixing Bowls: Have a few mixing bowls on hand to combine and whisk the cake batter efficiently.
- Whisk or Electric Mixer: Use a whisk or an electric mixer to ensure the batter is well blended and smooth.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to successful baking, so have measuring cups and spoons ready.
- Cooling Rack: Once the tea cakes are baked, a cooling rack will help them cool evenly and prevent sogginess.
- Parchment Paper: Optionally, you can use parchment paper to line the muffin tin for easy removal of the cakes.
With these basic kitchen essentials, you’ll be well-equipped to bring these lemon blueberry and almond tea cakes to life in your own kitchen.
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Cake Pan
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Grease an 8-inch cake pan and line the bottom with a parchment paper round.
- Set aside the prepared cake pan for later use.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside this dry mixture.
- Thinly slice the apple quarter into 12 slices, and set aside after removing the core.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the eggs and sugar until well combined.
- Add yogurt and mix until smooth; scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Alternate between adding oil and the flour mixture in two increments, mixing well.
- Add lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix at low speed until just combined.
- Gently fold in 1 and ½ cups of blueberries by hand.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared cake pan.
- If the streusel has hardened, break it into crumbs with a fork and sprinkle it over the top of the cake.
- Sprinkle the remaining blueberries on top of the batter.
- Proceed with baking as directed in the recipe.
Baking the Cake
To bring this delicious blueberry almond tea cake to life, we need to bake it to perfection. Follow the simple steps below to enjoy a moist and flavorful treat.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure the perfect temperature for baking this delectable blueberry almond tea cake. By preheating, you set the stage for even baking and a beautifully golden-brown finish.
Baking Time and Temperature
Bake the blueberry almond tea cake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on the cake—it’s ready when the edges turn golden-brown, and the center is firm to the touch. This baking time and temperature will deliver a delightful cake with a moist crumb and burst of blueberry goodness.
Serving and Presentation
Slicing and Plating
When it comes to serving the blueberry almond tea cake, I recommend allowing it to cool completely before slicing. This cake is best enjoyed in generous slices that showcase the colorful burst of blueberries throughout. To plate, you can use a decorative cake stand or a simple dessert plate to highlight the beauty of the cake.
Garnish Options
For an elegant touch, consider garnishing the blueberry almond tea cake with a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. This simple addition not only adds a touch of sweetness but also enhances the visual appeal of the cake. Additionally, you can add a few fresh blueberries or a sprig of mint on the side of each slice for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage Tips
When it comes to storing your blueberry almond tea cake, here are some useful tips to keep it fresh and delicious for longer:
Refrigerating
After baking your blueberry almond tea cake, if you plan to enjoy it over the next few days, refrigerating is the way to go. Once the cake has completely cooled, cover it tightly with foil or place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to indulge, simply take out the desired portion, let it come to room temperature, and savor the delightful flavors.
Freezing
If you want to save your blueberry almond tea cake for a later date, freezing is a fantastic option. Once the cake has cooled down, you can freeze it whole or in individual slices. Wrapping the cake first in wax paper and then in foil helps protect it from freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen slice, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the microwave or oven for a warm treat.
Conclusion
In crafting these blueberry almond tea cakes, I’ve explored a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make this recipe a standout choice. From the juicy burst of blueberries to the nutty crunch of almonds, every bite offers a symphony of taste. The versatility of this recipe allows for personalization, whether you opt for a different berry or a nut-free version. The baking process, outlined with simplicity in mind, ensures that even novice bakers can achieve delicious results. By following these steps and tips, you can create a delectable treat that is perfect for any occasion. So, indulge in a slice of this blueberry almond tea cake and savor the harmonious blend of ingredients that make it a true culinary delight.