Melt-in-Your-Mouth Almond Cakes

For many in the NY/NJ area, the last few days - and even weeks- have been rough. We were hit by Hurricane Sandy on the night of October 29th, 2012. An unexpected visit from Mother Nature which, in a matter of hours, transformed neighbourhoods and the lives of many. In the worst hit areas, homes and cars were nearly washed away, crushed for some.  Millions were left without power, hot water or any internet and phone connection to communicate with their loved ones. The consequence was waking up in a world we had not quite recognized. With the approaching winter and a cold breeze in the air, each day felt endless, with permanent questioning...  when will that lamp post turn on again? When will these streets look like they once used to be? Will I be lucky to find a power socket to charge my phone? What about the elderly, or those with babies? 

And slowly, with each day, the most important question became: how can we help fix this- in any way or form? 

And that was what I witnessed as a living proof that human nature is indeed good-willed, even in the roughest of times. In Hoboken, where I was personally impacted, the community demonstrated great resilience and an uplifting spirit, despite the saddening transformation of the city's charming streets. I knew I wanted to help and made sure I did my part. And although today, Hoboken is getting back on it's feet, some homes are still left without power and acts of kindness continue to persist. One upcoming event will be a Post-Sandy Hoboken Bake Sale on Saturday November 10th from 11AM-3PM. All proceeds will go to HOPES CAP, Inc an organization that provides relief for the Hurricane Sandy victims in Hoboken. If you happen to be in the area, please volunteer or swing by. The event will take place in front of Club H at 110 Sinatra Drive. 

Naturally, I will be sharing some baked goods which will be Orange, Almond & Orange Blossom melt-in-your-mouth cakes. I'm hoping these will bring a burst of sugar coated sunshine as the community continues to help re-construct Hoboken back to the way it was- if not better! 

Orange, Almonds and a tad bit of Orange Blossom is a wonderful combination

Lots of fresh orange zest

With wise words slipped in each cake

Recipe for Orange, Almond & Orange Blossom Melt-in-Your-Mouth-Cakes

Makes approx 12-15 small muffin size cakes

3 eggs

150gr (1 1/3 cup) butter, softened

170gr (3/4 cup) icing sugar

4 tablespoons milk

1 teaspoon almond extract

1 tablespoon orange blossom water

1 orange, zest of

150gr (1 1/4 cup) flour

50gr (1/2 cup) ground almond

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Pinch of salt

Sliced almonds

Preheat oven to 350F/180C

In a large bowl, mix the eggs, butter, icing sugar, milk, almond extract, orange blossom water and orange zest. Follow with the flour, ground almond, baking powder and salt. Mix to obtain a smooth batter. Transfer to moulds, top off with sliced almonds and bake for 15-20 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool.