Date & Almond Cake (gf, df)

Ingredients

30 dried dates (just enough boiling filtered water to cover them)

3 lge free-range eggs

40-60ml maple syrup

60ml macadamia oil (*extra virgin olive oil coulld be used here)

1/2 tspn vanilla extract concentrate

1/2 tspn ground cardamon

2 tsp gf baking powder

250g almond meal

1-2 tbspn diced almonds (for the top of the cake)

Method

Place dates in a small bowl and just cover with boiling water. Set aside to soak for about 30 mins.

Preheat oven to 160*c Line a loaf tin with baking paper and set aside.

Squash the dates against the edge of the bowl with the back of your spoon until they’re a mushy consistancy of a paste, then place them in a large mixing bowl.

Add to this the eggs, maple syrup, macadamia oil, vanilla extract concentrate and baking powder. Mix using a whisk or fork until very well combined, and even a little fluffy in appearance. Lastly add the almond meal and mix using a spoon until very well combined.

Carefully spoon the mixture into your lined loaf tin making sure it’s level, then sprinkle the diced almonds evenly on top.

Place on the middle shelf of your oven and bake for approx. 45 mins, or until golden and baked through.

(*slide a small skewer in the centre to test if it is cooked. If it comes out clean, it’s done. If not, leave in the oven for another 5 mins. Stay close by keeping an eye on it so it doesn’t burn)

Leave to sit in the tin for about 5 mins, before cooling on a wire rack. Delish to eat while warm or save for later in an airtight container.

You’ll be the envie of your neighbours as the aroma of your baked goodness escapes into the world outside.

Enjoy ~ Shaz x