Tiger Nut Flour Oven Cake: A Gluten-Free Spin on a Classic

By yummyrecipes

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both delicious and accommodating to dietary restrictions, this Tiger Nut Flour Oven Cake is a must-try. This recipe puts a modern, gluten-free twist on the classic oven cake by using tiger nut flour, a nutrient-dense, naturally sweet ingredient that’s perfect for those following gluten-free, paleo, or nut-free diets. With its tender crumb, subtle nutty flavor, and versatility, this cake is ideal for birthdays, afternoon tea, or any occasion calling for a wholesome treat. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making this cake from scratch, including tips, variations, and serving ideas. Let’s bake a cake that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!

Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Paleo-inspired
Keywords: tiger nut flour, gluten-free cake, paleo dessert, nut-free, healthy baking, oven cake, dairy-free option, naturally sweet, wholesome dessert, easy recipe

What Is Tiger Nut Flour Oven Cake?

Tiger Nut Flour Oven Cake is a reimagined version of a traditional cake, using tiger nut flour as the primary flour. Despite its name, tiger nuts are not nuts but small, nutrient-packed tubers with a naturally sweet, nutty flavor. This flour is gluten-free, grain-free, and nut-free, making it an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions. The cake is moist, slightly dense, and infused with warm spices like cinnamon, with optional add-ins like dried fruit or chocolate chips for extra flair. It’s baked in a standard oven, resulting in a golden, fragrant dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

This recipe serves 8–10 people, with a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a baking time of 30–35 minutes. It yields one 9-inch round cake or an 8×8-inch square cake. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps!

Ingredients

To make this Tiger Nut Flour Oven Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients. Tiger nut flour may require a trip to a health food store or online purchase, but the other ingredients are pantry staples.

For the Cake:

1 ½ cups (180g) tiger nut flour (sifted for best texture)
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder (ensure gluten-free if needed)
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
½ cup (120ml) maple syrup (or honey for non-vegan)
⅓ cup (80ml) coconut oil, melted (or unsalted butter, melted, for non-paleo)
3 large eggs, at room temperature
⅓ cup (80ml) almond milk (or coconut milk for nut-free, or any plant-based milk)
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp apple cider vinegar (helps with rise)
½ cup (75g) chopped dried fruit (e.g., raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates, optional)
½ cup (85g) dark chocolate chips (dairy-free if needed, optional)

For the Optional Glaze:

1 cup (120g) powdered sugar (or coconut sugar blended into a powder for paleo)
2–3 tbsp almond milk (or coconut milk for nut-free)
½ tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of ground cinnamon

For Garnish (Optional):

Chopped tiger nuts or slivered almonds (if not nut-free)
Fresh berries (e.g., raspberries or blueberries)
Dust of powdered sugar

Equipment:

9-inch round cake pan or 8×8-inch square baking pan
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Whisk or hand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Sifter (for tiger nut flour)
Cooling rack
Small bowl (for glaze)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Tiger Nut Flour Oven Cake. Each step is designed to be straightforward, with tips to ensure a perfect bake.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or an 8×8-inch square pan with coconut oil or non-stick spray. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
Set the pan aside.

Tip: Parchment paper ensures the cake releases cleanly, especially since tiger nut flour can be slightly sticky.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift the tiger nut flour to remove any lumps. Add the baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Whisk to combine.
Sifting is crucial for tiger nut flour, as it can clump and affect the cake’s texture.

Tip: If you don’t have a sifter, use a fine mesh strainer to break up clumps.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, eggs, almond milk, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and well combined.
Ensure the eggs are at room temperature to prevent the coconut oil from solidifying.

Tip: If the mixture looks slightly curdled due to the vinegar, don’t worry—it will come together when mixed with the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Form the Batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a whisk or spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cake dense.
If using optional add-ins like dried fruit or chocolate chips, fold them into the batter now.
The batter will be thicker than traditional cake batter but should still be pourable.

Tip: Tiger nut flour absorbs liquid quickly, so work efficiently to avoid a dry batter.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
The cake should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.

Tip: Check the cake at 25 minutes, as ovens vary. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil.

Step 6: Cool the Cake

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Carefully transfer the cake to a cooling rack by running a knife around the edges and inverting the pan. Peel off the parchment paper and let the cake cool completely, about 1 hour.

Tip: Cooling completely prevents the glaze from melting if you choose to add one.

Step 7: Prepare the Optional Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tbsp almond milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon until smooth. Add more milk, ½ tsp at a time, if the glaze is too thick.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, or spread it evenly with a spoon for full coverage.
Let the glaze set for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Tip: For a paleo-friendly glaze, blend coconut sugar into a fine powder and use coconut milk.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Slice the cake into 8–10 wedges or squares and serve on a platter.
Garnish with chopped tiger nuts, slivered almonds (if not nut-free), fresh berries, or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Pair with coffee, tea, or a glass of almond milk for a delightful treat.

Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Tips for Success

Source Quality Tiger Nut Flour: Purchase from reputable brands like Anthony’s or Organic Gemini for consistent texture and flavor. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Sift the Flour: Tiger nut flour can be gritty if not sifted, so don’t skip this step for a smooth crumb.
Balance Sweetness: Maple syrup provides natural sweetness, but you can reduce it to ⅓ cup for a less sweet cake or add 2 tbsp coconut sugar for extra depth.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature for a cohesive batter.
Don’t Overbake: Tiger nut flour cakes can dry out if overbaked, so check early and remove when just done.

Variations to Try

This cake is highly adaptable. Here are some variations to suit different tastes or dietary needs:

Chocolate Tiger Nut Cake: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and increase the maple syrup by 2 tbsp for a chocolatey twist.
Citrus Zest Cake: Fold in 1 tbsp orange or lemon zest for a bright, refreshing flavor.
Spiced Chai Cake: Add ½ tsp ground cardamom and ¼ tsp ground ginger to the dry ingredients for a chai-inspired cake.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut oil and coconut milk, and swap chocolate chips for dairy-free versions.
Tropical Nut Cake: Mix in ½ cup shredded coconut and ¼ cup chopped dried mango for a tropical flair.

Serving Suggestions

This Tiger Nut Flour Oven Cake is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments:

With Beverages: Serve with masala chai, herbal tea, or a latte to complement the cake’s nutty warmth.
With Toppings: Top with whipped coconut cream or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
As a Breakfast Cake: Pair with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for a wholesome morning treat.
Party Presentation: Cut into small squares and arrange on a tiered stand with fresh berries and edible flowers for a festive dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tiger Nut Flour Oven Cake is a standout for several reasons:

Dietary-Friendly: Gluten-free, grain-free, nut-free, and paleo-inspired, it suits a wide range of dietary needs.
Nutritious: Tiger nut flour is rich in fiber, iron, and healthy fats, making this a guilt-free indulgence.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible for beginner bakers.
Versatile: Perfect for casual snacking, special occasions, or gifting in a decorative tin.
Unique Flavor: The nutty, naturally sweet profile of tiger nut flour sets it apart from traditional cakes.

Conclusion

This Tiger Nut Flour Oven Cake by yummyrecipes is a delightful spin on a classic dessert, offering a gluten-free, paleo-inspired treat that’s as wholesome as it is delicious. With its tender crumb, warm spices, and customizable add-ins, it’s a versatile cake that’s perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations. Whether you’re new to tiger nut flour or a seasoned gluten-free baker, this recipe is sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and bake a cake that’s both nourishing and indulgent. Happy baking!

Recipe Details

Author: yummyrecipes
Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Paleo-inspired
Keywords: tiger nut flour, gluten-free cake, paleo dessert, nut-free, healthy baking, oven cake, dairy-free option, naturally sweet, wholesome dessert, easy recipe