Nordic Almond Cake

Instructions

1. Prepare the baking pan
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round springform cake pan with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter and sugar
   In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
3. Add the eggs
   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. If the mixture looks curdled, don't worry - it will come together when you add the dry ingredients.
4. Mix dry ingredients
   In a separate bowl, combine the ground almonds, flour (if using), baking powder, salt, and ground cardamom.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients
   Gently fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture using a spatula. Add the vanilla extract and lemon zest, folding until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Bake the cake
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the flaked almonds evenly over the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and serve
   Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then release the springform and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Before serving, dust lightly with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.