Ingredients
Almond Sponge Slices
- 9 tablespoons almond flour
- 3 eggs
- 3 tablespoons refined vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar substitute
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Matcha Latte
- 1/2 teaspoon matcha
- 150 ml (5 fl oz) hot water (90°C/194°F)
- 50 ml (1.5 fl oz) milk
- Honey/sugar/sugar substitute to taste
Equipment
- Whisk
An essential for making sure your almond sponge batter is smooth. Make sure to use a stainless steel whisk for better control.
- Rectangular Baking Mold
Opt for a silicone mold for easy release and even baking. Make sure it's low to ensure the slices cook evenly.
- Oven
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Consistent temperatures are key for perfect baking.
- Milk Frother or Hand Blender
A handheld frother can create fine foam for your matcha latte, giving it that barista-quality touch.
Instructions
Step 1
Preparing Almond Sponge Slices
Step 2
Making Matcha Latte
Servings
These almond sponge slices are beautifully versatile and pair wonderfully with a steaming cup of matcha latte. Picture this: a cozy autumn afternoon, a warm beverage in hand, and a plate of delicious, fluffy almond slices ready to be devoured. 🍂🍵
Try serving them:
- ☕️ With a side of fresh berries – A tangy contrast to the sponge's nuttiness.
- 🥭 With a drizzle of mango puree – Adds a tropical twist to your pastry experience.
- 🍦 With a scoop of vanilla ice cream – Turn it into a dessert extravaganza.
For a truly Instagram-worthy presentation, dust a bit of matcha powder on top of the foam of your latte and sprinkle some almond slices on the sponge. ✨📸 Bon appétit!
Variations
Cooking for someone with dietary restrictions? No problem! Here are some options to keep everyone in your life smiling and satisfied:
- Gluten-Free 🧁: You're in luck! The almond sponge slices are already gluten-free as they use almond flour instead of wheat flour.
- Vegan 🌿: Swap out the eggs for a vegan alternative like a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk for the matcha latte, and opt for a honey alternative or your favorite vegan sweetener.
Faq
- What can I use if I don't have almond flour?
Beginner: You can use ground almonds or even make your own almond flour by grinding blanched almonds until fine. Be cautious not to over-grind as it can turn into almond butter!
- How can I ensure my sponge comes out fluffy?
Beginner: Make sure your baking powder is fresh and whisk the batter thoroughly to incorporate air, which helps in making it fluffy.
- Can I use store-bought matcha latte mix?
Intermediate: Yes, but keep in mind the flavor and quality might differ. Using pure matcha powder typically results in a more authentic taste.
- How can I make the almond sponge slices extra moist?
Intermediate: You can add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the batter for added moisture and a slight tang.
- Can I prepare the almond sponge slices in advance?
Experienced: Absolutely! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
- How do I achieve a perfect foam on my matcha latte?
Experienced: Use a milk frother or hand blender and make sure the milk is at the right temperature (around 60°C/140°F). Froth in a wide bowl for the best results.
