Gluten-Free Simple Italian Cake (12 Tablespoons Recipe)

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🍰 Gluten-Free Simple Italian Cake (12 Tablespoons Recipe)

This light, citrusy Italian cake is naturally gluten-free, using almond flour for a tender crumb and bright lemon flavor. The “12 Tablespoons” name comes from its easy-to-remember measurements—perfect for a quick, elegant dessert!

⏲️ Prep Time: 10 mins | Bake Time: 30-35 mins | Serves: 8

📝 Ingredients

12 tbsp (¾ cup) granulated sugar

12 tbsp (¾ cup) almond flour (finely ground)
12 tbsp (¾ cup) unsalted butter, softened (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
3 large eggs, room temperature

Zest of 1 lemon (or orange for variation)
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp baking powder

Pinch of salt
Powdered sugar (for dusting)

👩🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prep & Mix

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch round pan and line with parchment.

In a bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy (~3 mins).
Add eggs one at a time, then mix in zest and vanilla.
Fold in almond flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.

2️⃣ Bake & Cool

Pour batter into the pan and smooth the top.
Bake 30-35 mins until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool 10 mins in the pan, then transfer to a rack.

3️⃣ Serve

Dust with powdered sugar and serve with berries or whipped cream.

💡 Pro Tips

✔ Fluffy texture: Whip butter and sugar well!
✔ No almond flour? Use GF oat flour (adjust texture may vary).
✔ Storage: Keeps 3 days airtight or freeze for 1 month.

🍋 Why You’ll Love It

✅ Naturally gluten-free (no special blends!).
✅ Bright, delicate flavor like an Italian torta.
✅ Easy to memorize (12-12-12 ratios!).

Perfect with coffee or dessert wine! ☕🍷

P.S. For a chocolate twist, add 2 tbsp cocoa powder! 🍫