These traditional Maltese almond cakes, known as Kware&# 197;¼imal, are a beloved Lenten treat. Made without eggs or dairy, they rely on the rich flavor of toasted almonds, bright citrus zest, and cinnamon for depth. The cakes have a dense, moist texture and a beautiful golden hue from the orange and tangerine peels. They are simple to prepare but offer a sophisticated taste that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea. Ideal for holidays, Easter celebrations, or any time you crave a naturally sweet, vegan-friendly dessert. The combination of almond flour and fruit zest creates a fragrant, nostalgic experience that honors Maltese culinary heritage.
Maltese Almond Cakes (Kwaresimal for Lent)_1
Description
These traditional Maltese almond cakes, known as Kware&# 197;¼imal, are a beloved Lenten treat. Made without eggs or dairy, they rely on the rich flavor of toasted almonds, bright citrus zest, and cinnamon for depth. The cakes have a dense, moist texture and a beautiful golden hue from the orange and tangerine peels. They are simple to prepare but offer a sophisticated taste that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea. Ideal for holidays, Easter celebrations, or any time you crave a naturally sweet, vegan-friendly dessert. The combination of almond flour and fruit zest creates a fragrant, nostalgic experience that honors Maltese culinary heritage.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350ðF (175ðC) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Finely grind the slivered blanched almonds into a coarse meal using a food processor.
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In a large bowl, combine the ground almonds, sugar, grated lemon rind, grated orange rind, and grated tangerine rind.
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Add the orange extract, cinnamon, and enough water to form a thick, cohesive dough. Mix until well combined.
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Roll the dough into small balls or shape into small rectangular cakes, placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cakes are golden brown and firm to the touch.
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Allow the cakes to cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 60
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 390.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 33.7g52%
- Saturated Fat 2.5g13%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 0.0mg0%
- Total Carbohydrate 14.6g5%
- Dietary Fiber 8.4g34%
- Sugars 3.0g
- Protein 14.3g29%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. These cakes improve in flavor after a day as the ingredients meld together.
If the dough feels too dry, add water one teaspoon at a time. If too wet, add a little more almond meal.
Traditional Kwareüimal are often made with whole almonds ground in a stone mill, but a food processor works well for home cooks.
The citrus zest provides essential flavor, so use fresh, organic citrus when possible to avoid pesticide residue.
