Creamy nuts are balanced with fresh and intensely flavoured berries in a cake for any occasion. Although most cakes can be set aside, a slice of almond cake never brings regret, Sodha highlighted, noting the density, the chewy texture of the crumb and the way the cake complements butter and other flavours.
In the Sodha household, the ultimate almond cake is Claudia Roden's orange and almond cake, which is prepared regularly for special occasions during the months of December to March. However, Sodha sought a cake more in keeping with the season to celebrate a close friend's August birthday.
Blackberries proved to be the perfect choice, partly because they are available in abundance at this time of year. Blackberries provide an excellent and lively contrast with the creamy nature of the almond, the recipe explains.
