Denise’s Almond Cake — Gluten-Free, and Dairy-Free

This gluten-free and dairy-free cake is simple and easy to make—but so delicious! It’s light, moist, and perfect as a go-to for gatherings or just a sweet treat at home.

When I last visited Denise, she made one of her favorite desserts—almond cake—and now it’s one of my go-to recipes too! Made with almond flour and egg whites, it’s light, moist, and delicate. Sliced almonds add the perfect crunch, while a touch of orange zest brings a bright, citrusy pop. Simple, unfussy, and absolutely delicious.

This recipe has been adapted from Zen belly. Thanks, Denise! ❤️

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Ingredients

• cooking spray for greasing the pan

• 4 large eggs, white and yolks separated

• 1/2C sugar

• zest of one small orange

• 1/4C freshly squeezed orange juice

• 1 1/2C almond flour

• 1/8 tsp salt

• about 1/2C raw sliced almonds

• powdered sugar, for dust

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan or a push pan. Place a parchment circle at the bottom of the pan and grease it lightly as well.

2. Using a stand mixer or hand beaters in a large bowl, beat egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Set aside.

   

3. In a small bowl, combine the sugar and orange zest. Using your fingers, rub them together until fragrant and and set aside. (Note: Rubbing releases the essential oils from the zest into the sugar, intensifies lemon flavor!)

   

4. In a separate large bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, orange zest, and orange juice.

   

5. Fold in almond flour and salt.

   

6. Fold in about 1/4 of the egg whites into the almond flour mixture. Once fully combined, gently fold in the remaining egg whites (Note: do not over-mix!)

   

   

7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle with sliced almonds. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a cake tester or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool, then run a sharp knife around the edges before removing from the pan.

   

   

8. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

   

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