persian love cake recipe

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup almond meal (ground almonds)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon rose water
• Zest of 1 orange

For the Syrup:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rose water
• 1 tablespoon water

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
• Dried rose petals (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a 9-inch (23 cm) springform cake pan with parchment paper.
2. Make the Cake:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Stir in the Greek yogurt, rose water, and orange zest.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, almond meal, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cardamom.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Bake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Make the Syrup:
   • While the cake is baking, combine honey, rose water, and water in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Drizzle the Syrup:
   • Once the cake is done and still warm, use a skewer or fork to poke holes on top. Drizzle the syrup over the cake, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
8. Cool and Garnish:
   • Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, sprinkle chopped pistachios and dried rose petals on top.
9. Serve:
   • Slice and serve the Persian Love Cake. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!

Feel free to adjust the quantities or ingredients according to your preferences. Enjoy baking