Tosca cake. Doesn’t it sound intriguing? This Swedish delight is a buttery, nutty, and caramelized dream that’s easier to make than its fancy name might suggest. Imagine a soft and fluffy cake base topped with a crunchy, buttery, and sweet topping – that’s Tosca cake in a nutshell. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe will guide you through each step to create this delightful treat.
A Taste of Sweden in Your Kitchen
Tosca cake, also known as Almond cake with Tosca topping, has been a beloved Swedish classic for generations. Its popularity stems from its simple yet irresistible combination of textures and flavors. The cake’s history can be traced back to the early 20th century, and some believe it was named after the famous Puccini opera “Tosca” due to its rich and dramatic flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the cake:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup milk
For the Tosca topping:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sliced almonds
Tools of the Trade
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Two mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Baking Guide
1. Preparing the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
2. Creating the Irresistible Tosca Topping
- In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, and flour.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and comes to a boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sliced almonds.
- Pour the hot Tosca topping evenly over the cake batter.
3. Baking to Perfection
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Tosca Triumph
- For a richer flavor, use browned butter in the topping. Simply cook the butter over medium heat until it turns a light brown color and develops a nutty aroma.
- If you prefer a more intense almond flavor, toast the sliced almonds in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant.
- Tosca cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
FAQs: Your Tosca Questions Answered
Can I use different nuts in the topping?
Absolutely! While almonds are traditional, you can substitute them with other nuts like pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts for a unique twist.
Can I make Tosca cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and store it at room temperature. The topping is best made fresh before serving.
Serving and Enjoying Your Swedish Delight
Tosca cake is delicious on its own, but a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to the next level. It’s the perfect treat for fika, the Swedish coffee break, or any occasion that calls for something sweet and special.
Whole Tosca Cake
Slice of Tosca Cake
So there you have it – your guide to creating a delicious Tosca cake. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, this Swedish treat is sure to impress your family and friends. Happy baking!
