Spiced Cake

Spiced Cake

Spiced Cake is a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with a blend of warm spices and crunchy nuts. This cake has a unique flavor profile that makes it perfect for special occasions or just a cozy day at home. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of tea or serve it at a gathering, this cake is sure to impress everyone.

Why Make This Recipe

Making a Spiced Cake is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s about creating something special. This recipe is easy to follow and uses ingredients you might already have in your kitchen. The combination of chocolate and spices gives the cake a warm, inviting aroma, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any mixed nuts or candied peel you have lying around!

How to Make Spiced Cake

Ingredients:

• 200g dark chocolate
• 150g mixed nuts (hazelnuts, almonds, walnuts)
• 100g candied peel
• 100g sugar
• 4 eggs
• 200g flour
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• Red wine (optional, for serving)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a cake pan.
2. Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Let it cool slightly.
3. Chop the mixed nuts and candied peel.
4. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Stir in the melted chocolate, followed by the flour, ground spices, baking powder, and salt. Mix until combined.
6. Fold in the chopped nuts and candied peel.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let it cool before serving. Optionally, serve with a glass of red wine.

How to Serve Spiced Cake

Serve Spiced Cake at room temperature, either plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar on top. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. If you want, you can also enjoy it with a glass of red wine for an elegant touch.

How to Store Spiced Cake

Keep any leftover Spiced Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to store it for longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving.

Tips to Make Spiced Cake

• Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• For an extra moist cake, consider adding a spoonful of yogurt or sour cream to the batter.
• Don’t skip chopping the nuts and candied peel. This adds texture and makes the cake more enjoyable!

Variation

You can easily personalize this cake by adding dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a sweeter twist. Alternatively, you can swap out the nuts for your favorite type or use only one kind for a more straightforward flavor.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
A1: Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but it will make the cake sweeter. You may want to adjust the sugar accordingly.

Q2: What can I use if I don’t have candied peel?
A2: If you don’t have candied peel, you can use dried fruits like apricots or even omit them altogether.

Q3: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely! This cake tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it in advance and enjoy it later.

Enjoy your Spiced Cake!