Introduction:

Looking for a cake that’s rich, fragrant, and beautifully festive? The Gâteau aux Amandes et Fruits Confits—Almond Cake with Candied Fruits—is a charming French dessert often served during the holidays or on special occasions. Moist and buttery, with a subtle nuttiness from ground almonds and bursts of sweet candied fruit, this cake is as lovely to look at as it is to eat.

Think of it as the French cousin to the fruitcake—lighter, more elegant, and deeply satisfying with a cup of tea or a glass of dessert wine.

🧾 Ingredients (for 1 loaf cake or 8-inch round cake):

100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened

100g (1/2 cup) sugar

2 large eggs

100g (1 cup) ground almonds (almond flour)

50g (1/3 cup) all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)

100g (about 3/4 cup) assorted candied fruits (cherries, orange peel, citron, etc.), chopped

2 tbsp rum or orange liqueur (optional)

A handful of slivered almonds for topping

Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

🥣 Preparation Steps:

Step 1: Prep the Fruits

  1. Chop the candied fruits into small pieces.

  2. If using, soak them in a bit of rum or orange liqueur for 20 minutes to enhance their flavor.

  3. Drain and toss with a teaspoon of flour (prevents sinking during baking).

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

  1. Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and line a loaf or cake pan.

  2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.

  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Add almond extract if using.

  4. Fold in ground almonds, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix gently.

  5. Stir in the floured candied fruits.

Step 3: Bake

  1. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top.

  2. Sprinkle slivered almonds on top.

  3. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and the top is golden brown.

  4. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a classic finish.

Serve with a cup of black tea or coffee.

For dessert, pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

👩‍🍳 Tips & Variations:

Make it gluten-free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.

Holiday version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg and decorate with whole candied cherries.

Storage: Keeps well for 4–5 days in an airtight container. Flavors deepen over time!

🎉 A Slice of French Celebration

Gâteau aux Amandes et Fruits Confits is more than just a cake—it’s a little piece of tradition. Whether you bake it for Christmas, a Sunday family meal, or simply to enjoy a treat with your afternoon tea, this almond cake brings warmth and elegance to your table.

Light, tender, and full of texture, it’s sure to become one of your favorite French-inspired bakes.

Bon appétit! 🎂🇫🇷