Almond Cake with Blueberry

Almond and Cranberry Cake Recipe: a sweet and tart dessert that captivates

The almond and cranberry cake is presented as a masterpiece of home baking, combining simple ingredients with techniques that elevate any celebration or after-dinner moment into an authentic feast of flavors. The softness of the almond base melts in your mouth with the freshness and slight tartness of the cranberries, creating a contrast that surprises and delights. This cake stands out not only for its spongy texture and tempting appearance, but also for its versatility and ability to adapt to different occasions, from family gatherings to special treats for guests. The thin layer of almond praline that covers it provides a crunch that enriches each bite, making the experience complete and memorable. In the current context of 2025, with a growing trend towards nutritious desserts with natural ingredients, this cake is positioned as a healthy and delicious option, ideal for those looking to balance flavor and well-being. The simplicity of its preparation allows even beginners to surprise in the kitchen, without losing that professional touch in the final result, consolidating itself as an essential in the world of homemade sweets.

Origin and tradition of almond and cranberry cake in home baking

This cake reflects the union of two classic ingredients from Mediterranean and American gastronomy: the almond, a symbol of Spanish pastry for its intense flavor and creamy texture, and the blueberry, a fruit that has gained popularity for its freshness and antioxidant properties. The tradition of combining nuts and fruits in sweets and tarts dates back centuries, when grandmothers created recipes that were passed down from generation to generation. Specifically, in regions like Mallorca, almonds and wild berries find a prominent place in their seasonal recipes, enriching the local gastronomic culture and serving as inspiration for modern chefs and pastry chefs. Today, this cake symbolizes the trend towards using natural and local ingredients, and its popularity has spread throughout the Spanish-speaking world. The fact of incorporating fresh or frozen blueberries depending on the season allows the cake to be enjoyed all year round, consolidating itself as a favorite on the menus of traditional confectioneries such as La Mallorquina or La Casa. Innovation in presentation and flavors keeps it current, without losing its humble and homemade essence that delights all audiences.

Preparation time for almond and cranberry cake

• Preparation: 30 minutes
• Cooking: 35 minutes
• Total: 1 hour and 5 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 servings
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients needed to make an almond and cranberry cake

For the almond base

• 200 g ground almonds
• 150 g icing sugar
• 100 g butter (at room temperature)
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

For the cranberry layer

• 200 g fresh or frozen blueberries (if using frozen, follow steps to prevent them from releasing too much juice)
• 50 g sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon wheat flour for coating

For the almond praline

• 100 g whole almonds
• 50 g sugar
• 10 g butter

If you wish to vary, you can substitute almonds with pecans or hazelnuts, obtaining a distinct touch in the texture and flavor of the praline without altering the essence of the cake.

Utensils we will use in making the cake

• 22-24 cm diameter non-stick tart pan
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Silicone spatula
• Food processor or chopper for the praline (optional)
• Sieve or fine strainer
• Conventional oven
• Bowls and measuring spoons

Procedure for preparing the almond and cranberry cake

1. Prepare the almond base

• Dry ingredients mixture: In a bowl, combine the ground almonds, powdered sugar, and salt. Sift all ingredients to ensure they are fine and lump-free.
• Beat the butter: In a large bowl, beat the butter with the sugar and vanilla until a creamy and homogeneous texture is obtained, approximately 2-3 minutes.
• Incorporate the eggs: Add the eggs one by one, incorporating each addition well before adding the next to form a uniform batter.
• Add the dry ingredients: Incorporate the almond mixture in several additions, mixing gently with a spatula until a batter with a homogeneous consistency is obtained.
• Form and bake the base: Pour the batter into the mold, spreading it with the spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and a skewer inserted comes out clean.

2. Prepare the cranberry layer

• Prepare the blueberries: If using frozen blueberries, rinse them carefully to remove impurities, dry them with paper towels, and sprinkle a little flour to prevent them from sinking into the batter.
• Mix liquid and dry ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the blueberries with the sugar, lemon juice, and flour, forming a uniform paste.
• Distribute the blueberries: Over the already baked base, carefully spread the blueberry mixture so that they are evenly distributed.
• Bake the complete tart: Place the tart in the oven at 180°C for about 20 more minutes, until the blueberries release their juice and the surface is bubbly.

3. Prepare the almond praline

• Toast the almonds: In a hot pan, toast the almonds until golden, without burning.
• Make the caramel: In a small pot, melt the sugar until a golden caramel is obtained, without stirring, only gently shaking to prevent it from burning.
• Add the almonds and butter: To the caramel, add the toasted almonds and butter, mixing well until the topping is uniform.
• Spread and cool: Place the mixture on baking paper and let it cool before chopping into small pieces, forming the praline that will decorate the cake.

4. Assembly and final decoration

• Spread the praline: Over the already baked cake with the blueberries in place, spread the praline in a thin and uniform layer, using a spatula or spoon.
• Cool and rest: Let the cake rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes so the praline sets and the flavors integrate.
• Serve: Cut into portions and serve with an extra touch of fresh blueberries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

To finish and serve

Before serving, remove the cake from the refrigerator and adjust the decoration if you wish to add some fresh fruit or a touch of mint. Serve on individual plates and enjoy a dessert that combines the sweetness of almond, the tartness of blueberries, and the crunchy texture of praline for a perfect finish to any gathering.

Tips for achieving a flawless almond and cranberry cake

• Ingredient selection: Opt for good quality ground almonds, such as those offered by La Confitería Rialto or Pastelería Mallorca, for an authentic flavor.
• Doneness control: Monitor the base and surface during baking to prevent it from drying out or burning, especially if using lower quality molds that may distribute heat unevenly.
• Improve blueberry texture: Coating the fruits in flour helps prevent them from sinking and maintains the surface aesthetic.
• Final flavor: Add a little more sugar to the blueberry layer if you prefer a sweeter contrast, or reduce if you are looking for a more tart and healthy balance.
• Proper storage: Store the cake in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture, and consume it within 2-3 days to enjoy its freshness.

Nutritional information for almond and blueberry cake per serving

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 9 g
• Fats: 24 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 4 g

Values are approximate per serving, depending on selected ingredients and serving size.

5 keys to make it perfect

1. Use good quality ingredients, such as those from La Mallorquina, for exceptional texture and flavor.
2. Carefully follow each baking step to avoid dry bases or bubbles in the dough.
3. Coat the blueberries in flour so they don't sink and are evenly distributed.
4. Prepare the praline in advance only if you prefer a lighter texture, otherwise make it just before decorating.
5. Let the cake rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving, so that the flavors integrate and the praline layer sets.

When is it ideal to enjoy it?

This cake is perfect for enjoying at family celebrations, gatherings with friends, or even on a quiet afternoon accompanied by coffee or tea. The versatility of the cake also allows its inclusion in events such as birthdays, festivities, or as a gourmet gift on special dates. The combination of fresh, quality ingredients, along with a touch of elegance in its presentation, makes it ideal for surprising and delighting everyone present in any season of the year. Furthermore, its slightly tart and crunchy character makes it a refreshing option for the summer season, although with the warmth of the almond, it is also comforting on colder days, always adding a touch of sweetness and sophistication to the family table.

Comparative recipe: What other similar options can you prepare?

Frequently asked questions about almond and blueberry cake

Share your experience baking this almond and blueberry cake

Have you tried this delicious recipe yet? We would love to know how it turned out for you, if you tried any variations, or if you shared it with family and friends. Homemade baking is an art that is enriched by the passion and personal touch of each home. Share your tricks, photos, or tips in the comments and help other good food lovers discover this cake that combines tradition and modernity.

Culinary glossary

• Praline: Crunchy mixture of almonds or nuts caramelized in sugar, used as a decoration or filling in cakes and desserts.
• Dough base: The bottom layer of a cake, which can be prepared with different ingredients such as flour, almond, or crushed cookies, forming a solid and flavorful structure.
• Bain-marie: A cooking technique in a container placed in hot water, used to melt chocolates or prepare delicate sweets.
• Decorate: The act of decorating a cake with various ingredients such as fruits, nuts, cream, or chocolate, to enhance its presentation.
• Bake: Cooking in an oven with dry heat, which allows for crispy textures and intense flavors in cakes, cookies, or breads.