Introduction
The Amalfi Lemon Polenta Cake is a delightful dessert that highlights the vibrant flavors of the Amalfi Coast. Made with ground polenta and infused with the bright essence of lemons, this cake presents a unique texture and a refreshing taste. Perfect for any occasion, it can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a dollop of cream or a scoop of ice cream.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Unsalted butter: 200g
– Granulated sugar: 200g
– Zest of 2 lemons
– Juice of 2 lemons
– Eggs: 3 large
– Ground almonds: 100g
– Polenta (coarse cornmeal): 150g
– Baking powder: 1 tsp
– Salt: a pinch
– Icing sugar for dusting
Prep Time
Preparation time for the Amalfi Lemon Polenta Cake is approximately 15 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 45 minutes, making the total time for this delightful cake around 1 hour. This recipe yields a cake that serves approximately 8-10 people.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Prepare the cake tin
Grease a 23cm (9 inch) round cake tin with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper.
Mix the dry ingredients
In a bowl, combine the polenta, baking powder, and a pinch of salt, stirring well to mix.
Cream the butter and sugar
In another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs
Gradually add the eggs to the butter mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Incorporate the lemon
Mix in the lemon zest and juice to the egg mixture.
Combine wet and dry ingredients
Slowly fold the dry polenta mix into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Add the yogurt
Stir in the yogurt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Transfer to the cake tin
Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake the cake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 40–45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the cake
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve
Enjoy the cake plain, or dust with icing sugar and serve with whipped cream or yogurt if desired.
Notes
Storage
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Serving suggestions
This cake pairs well with fresh berries and a dusting of icing sugar for added flavor and presentation.
Variations
Consider adding almonds or citrus zest for different flavor variations.
Hint
Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Cook techniques
Using Polenta
Polenta is a versatile ingredient that provides a unique texture to baked goods. When cooking with polenta, be sure to use the right consistency to achieve a moist cake.
Incorporating Citrus
When using lemons, ensure that you zest them properly to capture the essential oils, which enhances the flavor of the cake. Freshly squeezed lemon juice can elevate the taste even more.
Whisking Eggs
For a light and airy cake, whisk the eggs until they are fluffy. This introduces air into the mixture, helping the cake rise during baking.
Greasing the Cake Tin
To prevent sticking, it’s crucial to grease the cake tin thoroughly. You may also line the bottom with parchment paper for extra assurance.
Baking to Perfection
Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes to avoid overcooking. A skewer inserted in the center should come out clean once it’s done.
Cooling the Cake
Let the cake cool in the tin for a while before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its shape and texture.
FAQ
Can I use other citrus fruits instead of lemons?
Yes, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like oranges or limes for different flavors.
How can I store the polenta cake?
The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or refrigerated for a longer shelf life.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, using gluten-free polenta ensures that the cake remains gluten-free while keeping its texture.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients to the cake?
Absolutely! You can incorporate ingredients like almonds or herbs for added flavor complexity.
How can I tell if my cake is done baking?
A skewer inserted in the center should come out clean, and the cake should spring back when lightly pressed.
Conclusion
The Amalfi lemon polenta cake is a delightful treat that perfectly combines the brightness of fresh lemon with the unique texture of polenta. This cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a refreshing dessert option that can be enjoyed on various occasions. It captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors, making it a must-try for dessert lovers.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Almond Cake with Citrus Glaze
A moist almond cake topped with a sweet and tangy citrus glaze pairs wonderfully with the lemon notes of the polenta cake.
Berry Compote
Serve a warm berry compote alongside the polenta cake for a burst of color and flavor, adding a fruity contrast to the lemony richness.
Greek Yogurt with Honey and Nuts
For a lighter option, try a bowl of Greek yogurt drizzled with honey and sprinkled with nuts to complement the cake’s zest.
Espresso or Coffee
Enjoy the cake with a cup of rich espresso or coffee, enhancing the flavors and providing a perfect balance to the sweetness.
Chocolate Ganache
Drizzle a decadent dark chocolate ganache over the polenta cake for a luxurious twist that marries citrus with chocolatey goodness.