Brandy Almond Cake

Ingredients and Weight:

• Unsalted butter (1 cup / 227g)
• Granulated sugar (1 cup / 200g)
• Large eggs (3)
• All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups / 187g)
• Baking powder (2 teaspoons / 10g)
• Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon / 2g)
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon / 1g)
• Almond extract (1 teaspoon / 5ml)
• Milk (1/2 cup / 120ml)

Brandy Glaze:

• Brandy (1/2 cup / 120ml)
• Confectioners' sugar (1/2 cup / 60g)

For Garnish:

• Sliced almonds (1/2 cup / 50g)

Preparation Time:

• 20 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 45-50 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 2 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.
2. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and almond extract.
5. Alternate wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Beat until just combined.
6. Pour into pan: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Make brandy glaze: While the cake is baking, make the brandy glaze by whisking together the brandy and confectioners' sugar until smooth.
9. Glaze the cake: Once the cake is cooked, immediately pour the brandy glaze over the warm cake. Sprinkle with sliced almonds for garnish.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (1/8 of cake):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 5g

Dish Characteristics:

• Moist and tender crumb
• Rich and nutty almond flavor
• Sweet and boozy glaze
• Perfect for special occasions or dessert parties

User Comments:

• "This cake is a masterpiece! The almond flavor is divine and the brandy glaze adds a touch of sophistication."
• "Easy to make and absolutely delicious. It was a hit with my family and friends."
• "The combination of almonds and brandy is a match made in dessert heaven. I highly recommend this cake!"
• "A perfect balance of sweetness and booziness. The glaze really takes it to the next level."
• "I've made this cake several times and it always turns out perfect. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use good quality brandy for the best flavor.
• Don't overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake.
• If the glaze is too thick, add a little water to thin it out. If it's too thin, add more confectioners' sugar.
• Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.