Cherry and Almond Cake (Vegan, Gluten Free)

My Delicious Vegan and Gluten-Free Cherry Almond Cake

As a busy working mom, finding time to bake is a luxury, not a given. But when I do find that precious time, I want it to be worthwhile. I want a recipe that's not only delicious but also healthy, caters to dietary restrictions (hello, gluten-free and vegan!), and is relatively quick to make. This Cherry Almond Cake fits the bill perfectly.

The aroma that wafts through the kitchen while this cake is baking is simply heavenly. The combination of sweet cherries and nutty almonds is a classic for a reason, and this vegan version doesn't disappoint. It’s moist, subtly sweet, and the almond flavor is beautifully complemented by the tartness of the cherries. The gluten-free flour blend ensures a light and airy texture, and I've even found that substituting white cane sugar for coconut sugar works equally well if that's what you have on hand. I particularly love the way the flaked almonds on top add a delightful crunch.

This recipe isn't just about convenience; it's about creating memories. The joy of sharing a slice of this cake with my family, seeing their faces light up with each bite, is priceless. It’s a simple pleasure, a moment of connection in our often hectic lives. And it's a recipe I’m happy to share, knowing it brings a little bit of sweetness and joy to other busy homes too. The ease of the recipe makes it a perfect choice for a weekend baking project, a special occasion treat, or even a spontaneous midweek pick-me-up. It's adaptable too; you could easily experiment with other fruits or nuts to create your own unique variation.

Beyond the Baking: This cake isn't just a treat for the taste buds; it's also a testament to mindful living. By using vegan and gluten-free ingredients, I'm not only catering to dietary needs but also making a conscious choice about the ingredients I consume. It’s about finding balance, about enjoying delicious food without compromising on my values. And this cake reminds me that healthy eating doesn't have to be boring or complicated – it can be delicious, simple, and satisfying.

This cake is more than just a recipe; it's a story of simple pleasures, family moments, and the joy of creating something delicious from scratch. It’s a reminder to savor the little things, to make time for what truly matters, and to appreciate the sweetness of life, one delicious slice at a time.

So, whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Let the sweet aroma fill your home, and let the taste transport you to a moment of peace and contentment. And don't forget to share a slice (or two!) with those you love. Happy baking!

Ingredients

Cake:

• 200 g / 2 cups self-raising gluten-free flour
• 150 g / 1 1/4 cups ground almonds
• 200 g / 1 cup coconut sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 120 ml / 1/2 cup liquid coconut oil
• 300 ml / 1 1/3 cup soy milk
• 2 tsp almond essence
• 200 g glace cherries, chopped
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Topping:

• Flaked almonds
• Icing sugar

Step-by-step

• Preheat the oven to 180c and line a 9inch springform tin
• Place all of the dry ingredients in a mixing bowl
• Pour the wet ingredients into a jug and stir well
• Gradually add the liquid to the dry ingredients and mix well
• Stir in the glace cherries
• Pour into the lined tin and bake for 40/45 minutes, until a testing stick comes out clean
• Allow to cool and then decorate