This gluten-free honey almond cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the nutty richness of almond flour, the sweetness of honey, and the refreshing zest of orange. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is not only delicious but also easy to make.
Some ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in every household. Almond flour can be found in the baking aisle or specialty food section of your supermarket. Cardamom and ground ginger are located in the spice aisle. Raspberries and pistachios may be found in the produce and nut sections, respectively.
Ingredients for Gluten-Free Honey Almond Cake
Almond flour: A finely ground flour made from blanched almonds, it provides a moist and tender crumb to the cake.
Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise.
Baking soda: Another leavening agent that works with the baking powder to give the cake its light texture.
Cardamom: A spice with a unique, aromatic flavor that adds depth to the cake.
Ground ginger: Adds a warm, spicy note to the mix.
Sea salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Eggs: Provides structure and moisture to the cake.
Honey: A natural sweetener that adds a rich, floral sweetness.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds moisture and a hint of fruity flavor.
Orange: The zest and juice add a bright, citrusy flavor.
Raspberries: Bursts of tartness and color throughout the cake.
Powdered sugar: A light dusting for a touch of sweetness and decoration.
Pistachios: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor as a finishing touch.
One reader, Carolann Childs says:
This gluten-free honey almond cake is a delightful treat! The flavors of cardamom and ginger blend perfectly with the sweetness of honey and the zest of orange. The texture is moist and the raspberries add a lovely touch. A must-try for anyone looking for a delicious gluten-free dessert!
Techniques Required for Making Gluten-Free Honey Almond Cake
How to zest an orange: Use a microplane or fine grater to remove the outer layer of the orange peel, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. How to fold in raspberries: Gently incorporate the raspberries into the batter using a spatula, turning the mixture over itself to avoid crushing the berries. How to make a glaze: Combine orange juice and honey in a small saucepan and warm over medium heat, stirring until the honey is fully blended into the juice. How to chop pistachios: Use a sharp knife to finely chop the pistachios into small pieces for sprinkling over the cake.
How To Make Gluten-Free Honey Almond Cake Recipe
Enjoy this gluten-free cake recipe and surprise yourself with the rich honey almond flavor and textures brought by pistachios, raspberries, and oranges.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2cupsalmond flour
- 1tsp.baking powder
- ½ tsp.baking soda
- ½ tsp.ground cardamom
- ½ tsp.ground ginger
- ½ tsp.sea saltfine-grain
- 4eggsbeaten
- ⅔cuphoney
- ¼ cupextra-virgin olive oil
- 1orange
- 6oz.raspberries
- sprinklepowdered sugaroptional
- ½ cuppistachiosraw , chopped
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9-inch pan with butter and dust with almond flour.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond meal, baking powder, baking soda, cardamom, ginger and sea salt.
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In another bowl, combine the beaten eggs, honey, olive oil, and the zest of your orange. Use a whisk to mix well.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry. Stir just until there are a few clumps remaining, then gently fold in the raspberries. Pour the mixture into your prepared pan.
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Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the cake is golden brown and the center is firm to the touch. Place the cake on a wire rack to cool to room temperature.
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Once the cake is out of the oven, slice your orange in half and squeeze out the juice. Combine the juice with honey in a small saucepan.
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Warm over medium heat, while stirring, just until the honey is blended into the juice. Brush the orange-honey glaze over the warm cake. It should soak right in.
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Once the cake is cool, use a sharp knife to slice into pieces. Transfer each piece to a plate, sprinkle with powdered sugar, and finish with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios.
Nutrition
- Calories: 3893.55kcal
- Fat: 288.23g
- Saturated Fat: 38.36g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 187.72g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 40.15g
- Carbohydrates: 335.25g
- Fiber: 18.83g
- Sugar: 300.53g
- Protein: 35.70g
- Cholesterol: 79.98mg
- Sodium: 1821.92mg
- Calcium: 247.59mg
- Potassium: 1780.97mg
- Iron: 9.01mg
- Vitamin A: 62.49µg
- Vitamin C: 23.30mg
Crucial Technique Tip for a Perfect Honey Almond Cake
When zesting the orange, make sure to only remove the bright orange outer layer and avoid the white pith underneath, as it can add a bitter taste to your cake. Use a microplane or fine grater for the best results.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Gluten-Free Cake Recipe
Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before you start. This will streamline the baking process.
Use a food processor: To save time, use a food processor to mix the almond flour and other dry ingredients quickly.
Preheat the oven early: Turn on the oven before you start mixing to ensure it’s ready when you are.
Line the pan: Use parchment paper instead of greasing and dusting the pan for a quicker cleanup.
Microwave the honey: Slightly warm the honey in the microwave to make it easier to mix with the other wet ingredients.
Substitute Ingredients For Gluten-Free Honey Almond Cake Recipe
almond flour - Substitute with coconut flour: Coconut flour is also gluten-free and provides a similar texture, though you may need to adjust the liquid content as coconut flour is more absorbent.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Mix 1/4 tsp. baking soda with 1/2 tsp. cream of tartar to replace 1 tsp. baking powder, maintaining the leavening effect.
baking soda - Substitute with potassium bicarbonate: Potassium bicarbonate can be used in the same quantity as baking soda, providing a similar leavening effect without the sodium.
ground cardamom - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon offers a warm, sweet flavor that complements the other spices, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly.
ground ginger - Substitute with ground allspice: Ground allspice has a similar warmth and spiciness, making it a good alternative to ground ginger.
sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar flavor, though it has a slightly different texture.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tbsp. ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp. water per egg and let it sit to thicken. This provides a similar binding effect for a vegan option.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and moisture, though it will impart a different flavor.
extra-virgin olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and moisture, though it will add a slight coconut flavor.
orange - Substitute with lemon: Lemon can provide a similar citrusy brightness, though it will be more tart than orange.
raspberries - Substitute with blueberries: Blueberries offer a similar burst of flavor and moisture, though they are slightly less tart.
powdered sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be ground into a fine powder to mimic powdered sugar, providing a similar sweetness with a slight caramel flavor.
pistachios - Substitute with almonds: Almonds provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor, making them a good alternative to pistachios.
Presentation Ideas for a Delightful Honey Almond Cake
Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the honey almond cake into elegant, bite-sized pieces to create a refined presentation. This allows the intricate flavors to be savored in a controlled manner.
Use decoration: Arrange the raspberries and chopped pistachios artistically around the plate. This adds vibrant color and texture, enhancing the visual appeal.
Add a garnish: Place a delicate sprig of fresh mint or a thin slice of orange zest on top of each cake piece. This adds a touch of freshness and sophistication.
Drizzle with glaze: Lightly drizzle the orange-honey glaze over the cake pieces just before serving. This not only adds a glossy finish but also intensifies the citrusy sweetness.
Use a stylish plate: Serve the cake on a sleek, white porcelain plate to make the colors of the cake, raspberries, and pistachios pop. The simplicity of the plate will highlight the elegance of the dessert.
Add a dusting of powdered sugar: Just before serving, lightly dust the cake with powdered sugar. This adds a delicate, snowy touch that contrasts beautifully with the golden brown cake.
Create height: Stack two or three small pieces of the cake slightly off-center on the plate. This adds dimension and makes the presentation more dynamic.
Incorporate texture: Add a small dollop of whipped coconut cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream beside the cake. This provides a creamy contrast to the cake's texture.
Use edible flowers: Garnish the plate with a few edible flowers like violets or pansies. This adds a touch of elegance and a pop of color that elevates the overall presentation.
Essential Tools for Baking a Perfect Honey Almond Cake
Oven: Used to bake the cake at a consistent temperature of 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
9-inch pan: The baking pan where the cake batter will be poured and baked.
Butter: Used to grease the pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
Wire rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly to room temperature after baking.
Large mixing bowl: Used to mix the dry ingredients together.
Whisk: Helps to combine the dry ingredients and also to mix the wet ingredients thoroughly.
Small mixing bowl: Used to combine the wet ingredients separately before mixing with the dry ingredients.
Zester: Used to zest the orange, adding flavor to the cake batter.
Spatula: Helps to fold in the raspberries gently into the batter.
Small saucepan: Used to warm the orange juice and honey mixture for the glaze.
Sharp knife: Used to slice the cake into pieces once it has cooled.
Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of the almond flour, honey, and olive oil.
Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of the baking powder, baking soda, cardamom, ginger, and sea salt.
Sifter: Used to dust the pan with almond flour and to sprinkle powdered sugar on the finished cake.
Chopping board: Provides a surface to chop the pistachios.
Knife: Used to chop the pistachios for the cake topping.
Storing and Freezing Gluten-Free Honey Almond Cake
Let the gluten-free honey almond cake cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cake soggy.
To store the cake at room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. The cake will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cake. Wrap it in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. The cake will keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Label the container with the date and contents. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to serve the frozen cake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can bring it to room temperature before serving.
If you want to freeze individual slices of the cake, wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. This way, you can easily grab a slice whenever you want a sweet treat!
To maintain the best texture and flavor of the almond cake, avoid freezing it with the orange-honey glaze and powdered sugar topping. Instead, add these toppings after thawing and just before serving.
How to Reheat Leftover Gluten-Free Honey Almond Cake
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the leftover gluten-free honey almond cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the cake loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cake is heated through. This method helps to retain the cake's moisture and texture, while also warming it evenly.
For a quicker option, you can use a microwave. Place a single slice of the gluten-free honey almond cake on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high power for 15-20 seconds, or until the cake is warm to your liking. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cake to become rubbery or dry.
If you prefer a slightly crispy exterior, you can reheat the gluten-free honey almond cake in a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice of the cake directly on the toaster oven rack and heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cake is warmed through and the edges are slightly crisp.
For a more indulgent treat, try warming a slice of the gluten-free honey almond cake in a skillet with a touch of butter or coconut oil. Melt a small amount of butter or coconut oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cake slice and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until the cake is warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the gluten-free honey almond cake. Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place a slice of the cake in the air fryer basket and heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the cake is warmed to your liking. This method can help to restore some of the cake's original crispness.
Interesting Fact About Honey Almond Cakes
A random fact about this recipe is that it uses almond flour instead of traditional wheat flour, making it naturally gluten-free. This is ideal for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Additionally, the combination of honey and orange zest provides a natural sweetness and citrusy aroma, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the cake.
Is Making Gluten-Free Honey Almond Cake Cost-Effective?
This gluten-free honey almond cake recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like almond flour, honey, and extra-virgin olive oil can be a bit pricey, but they are balanced by the minimal use of other ingredients. Fresh raspberries and pistachios add a touch of luxury but are used sparingly. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD. Considering the quality and health benefits, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.
Is This Honey Almond Cake Recipe Healthy?
This honey almond cake recipe has several healthy ingredients, such as:
- Almond flour, which is rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber
- Honey, a natural sweetener with antioxidants and antibacterial properties
- Extra-virgin olive oil, a heart-healthy fat
- Raspberries, a good source of fiber and vitamin C
- Pistachios, which offer healthy fats, protein, and minerals
However, there are a few aspects that could be improved:
- The recipe relies heavily on honey for sweetness, which can still contribute to added sugar intake
- Using extra-virgin olive oil is a healthier choice than butter, but it's still a calorie-dense ingredient
- The recipe lacks whole grains, which could provide additional fiber and nutrients
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of honey and replace some of it with mashed ripe bananas or unsweetened applesauce for natural sweetness
- Experiment with using a portion of whole grain flour, such as oat flour, in place of some of the almond flour to increase the fiber content
- Add a handful of spinach or grated zucchini to the batter for an extra boost of vitamins and minerals without affecting the taste
- Top the cake with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of powdered sugar for a protein-rich and lower-sugar option
- Serve the cake with a side of fresh berries to increase the overall nutrient density of the dessert
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Gluten-Free Cake
This gluten-free honey almond cake is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The almond flour provides a moist, tender crumb, while the cardamom and ginger add a subtle warmth. The raspberries offer a burst of tartness, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of honey. The orange zest and glaze infuse a refreshing citrus note, and the pistachios add a satisfying crunch. This cake is not only visually appealing but also a harmonious symphony of taste, making it an excellent choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
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Why trust this Gluten-Free Honey Almond Cake Recipe:
This gluten-free honey almond cake recipe is a delightful blend of almond flour, honey, and spices that create a moist and flavorful dessert. The addition of raspberries and a citrus glaze adds a refreshing twist. It's perfect for those with dietary restrictions, yet delicious enough for everyone to enjoy. The use of extra-virgin olive oil ensures a rich texture, while the pistachios provide a satisfying crunch. Trust this recipe for its balance of taste and health benefits.
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