Oh my goodness, have you ever tried Egyptian hazelnut cake? It’s an absolute gem of a dessert that’s rich in flavor and tradition. I first tasted this delightful cake at a friend’s family gathering, and I was instantly hooked! The nutty aroma fills the kitchen as it bakes, and trust me, it’s hard to resist sneaking a slice before it’s even cooled. This cake isn’t just a treat; it’s a slice of Egyptian culture, often enjoyed during celebrations and special occasions. With its moist texture and the perfect balance of sweetness, every bite takes you on a journey. You’ll want to make this cake time and time again, whether for a casual get-together or a festive feast. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dessert together!
Ingredients List
Let’s gather the ingredients for our delicious Egyptian hazelnut cake! This recipe is simple yet oh-so-satisfying, and you probably have most of these items on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup hazelnuts, ground: The star of the show! Make sure they’re finely ground to give that rich nutty flavor.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: This will help give the cake its structure and soft crumb.
- 1 cup sugar: For sweetness—because who doesn’t love a bit of sugar?
- 4 eggs: These add moisture and help the cake rise beautifully.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: This gives the cake a lovely richness and tender texture.
- 1 tsp baking powder: A must for that perfect rise!
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: For a warm, comforting aroma and flavor.
- 1/4 tsp salt: This enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Once you have these ingredients ready, we can dive into the fun part—baking!
How to Prepare Egyptian Hazelnut Cake
Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking this delightful Egyptian hazelnut cake! It’s easier than you might think, and I promise you’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous cake. Here’s how to do it:
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial as a well-heated oven ensures even baking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine your ground hazelnuts, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Give it a good stir until well mixed. This dry mixture is the foundation of your cake!
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. It’s essential to incorporate air here for a nice rise.
- Next, add in the melted butter and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Mix until everything is beautifully blended.
- Now, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender cake!
- Pour the batter into a greased cake pan, spreading it evenly, and pop it into the oven.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for a bit before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
And there you have it! A simple yet scrumptious cake that’s sure to impress. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and I can’t wait for you to enjoy this treat!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutrition of our delightful Egyptian hazelnut cake! While it’s definitely a treat, it’s good to know what you’re indulging in. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per slice:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 4g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. Enjoying a slice of this cake is definitely worth it, especially when shared with friends and family!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and nutty flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds!
- Simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
- Easy preparation that makes it perfect for beginner bakers.
- Moist texture that melts in your mouth—seriously, it’s heavenly!
- A beautiful way to share a piece of Egyptian culture with friends and family.
- Versatile for any occasion, whether it’s a casual coffee break or a festive gathering.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Egyptian hazelnut cake turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to help you succeed:
- Use fresh hazelnuts: Freshly ground hazelnuts make a world of difference in flavor. If you can, toast them lightly before grinding for an even richer taste!
- Don’t overmix: When combining your dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake—yikes!
- Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended time. A toothpick should come out clean when it’s ready.
- Let it cool: Patience is key! Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its moisture.
- Experiment with flavors: Don’t be afraid to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist. You can also drizzle some chocolate sauce on top for extra indulgence!
With these tips in your back pocket, I’m sure your cake will be a showstopper! Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Variations
One of the best parts about Egyptian hazelnut cake is how easily you can switch things up to match your mood or the season! Here are some fun variations to try:
- Mixed Nuts: Swap in your favorite nuts like almonds or walnuts for a delightful twist on flavor and texture.
- Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or cardamom to the batter for a warm, aromatic touch that’s perfect for cozy gatherings.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in some chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top for a decadent finish that will make any chocolate lover swoon!
- Fruit Additions: Toss in some chopped dried fruits like dates or figs for added sweetness and texture.
- Citrus Zing: A teaspoon of orange or lemon zest can brighten the flavors and give the cake a refreshing twist.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas—let your creativity shine through in every bite!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you have this gorgeous Egyptian hazelnut cake ready to go, let’s talk about how to serve it up for maximum enjoyment! I love pairing it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream to add a light, airy contrast to the rich cake. You could also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—seriously, it’s like a warm hug in dessert form! For drinks, a nice cup of black coffee or a fragrant mint tea complements the flavors beautifully. And if you’re feeling fancy, drizzle some chocolate sauce on top for that extra touch of decadence. Enjoy every bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Egyptian hazelnut cake properly is key to keeping it delicious for days! Once it’s completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This way, it’ll stay fresh and moist for up to 5 days at room temperature. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze slices wrapped individually for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a piece, just let it thaw in the fridge overnight. No need to reheat—this cake is delightful served at room temperature, or you can warm it slightly in the microwave for a cozy treat!
FAQ Section
You might have some questions about making this delicious Egyptian hazelnut cake, so let’s tackle a few common ones together!
Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?
Absolutely! While hazelnuts give this cake its unique flavor, you can substitute with almonds or walnuts if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the texture accordingly!
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. It should work beautifully while keeping that lovely moist texture!
How do I know when the cake is done?
The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your Egyptian hazelnut cake is ready to come out of the oven!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Definitely! This cake actually tastes even better the next day, so feel free to bake it a day in advance and store it properly.
What’s the best way to serve this cake?
I love serving it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream! A drizzle of chocolate sauce on top makes it even more indulgent!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Creamy Chicken Pasta!
Print
Egyptian Hazelnut Cake: 7 Irresistible Tips to Savor
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious Egyptian hazelnut cake with rich flavors and a moist texture.
Ingredients
- 1 cup hazelnuts, ground
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp 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 light and fluffy.
- Add melted butter and vanilla to the egg mixture and mix well.
- Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients.
- Pour the batter into a greased cake pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Serve with whipped cream or chocolate sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Egyptian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Egyptian hazelnut cake, dessert, baking, hazelnuts