0 Shares

As I wandered through my garden one sunny afternoon, the vibrant blue borage flowers caught my eye, their delicate petals swaying gently in the breeze. Inspired by their beauty, I decided to create something special: Almond Fairy Cakes with Candied Borage Flowers. These enchanting little treats transform simple baking into an art form, combining a light, airy sponge with a sweet, almond-scented poured fondant that beckons to be admired. Perfect for impressing guests at tea parties or adding a touch of elegance to any gathering, each bite is a delightful dance of flavor and texture.

What I love most about these fairy cakes is their versatility. While the borage flowers add a stunning visual appeal, feel free to experiment with other edible blossoms for a fresh twist. This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a whimsical charm that’s sure to spark joyful conversations. Let’s bring a little magic to your kitchen and craft these delightful wonders together!

Why are Almond Fairy Cakes so special?

Enchanting Visuals: The beautiful candied borage flowers lend an artistic flair that’s perfect for special occasions.
Irresistible Flavors: The almond-scented fondant adds a delightful layer of sweetness, making every bite a treat.
Easy to Make: This recipe is approachable, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in other edible flowers like violets or pansies for a unique twist!
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings, these cakes are sure to impress friends and family alike!
Time-Saving Tip: Bake the cakes ahead and decorate later, fitting perfectly into your busy schedule.

Almond Fairy Cake Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create the whimsical Almond Fairy Cakes topped with candied borage flowers!

For the Candied Flowers

Borage Flowers – Look for vibrant, fresh flowers ideally for candying; alternatives include violets or pansies.
Egg Whites – Use as a binding agent for the candied flowers; pasteurized carton egg whites can ensure safety.
Granulated Sugar (or Superfine Sugar) – Acts as both a sweetener and coating for candied flowers; superfine sugar helps create a smoother finish.

For the Cake Batter

Butter – Adds richness and flavor to the cake; unsalted butter is recommended for better control of salt levels.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetness for the cake; you can substitute with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the cake’s flavor; feel free to swap with almond extract to match the fondant.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture for the cake; gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute for a gluten-free option.
Baking Powder – Ensures the cake rises; avoid direct substitutions for leavening power.
Milk – Moisture for the batter; options like lactose-free or almond milk are great alternatives for dietary needs.

For the Poured Fondant

Almond Extract – This enhances the fondant’s flavor to create a sweet almond-scented glaze that perfectly complements the cake.
Powdered Sugar – Essential for making the fondant; ensures the right consistency for pouring over the cakes.

This delightful assembly of carefully chosen ingredients ensures that your Almond Fairy Cakes with Candied Borage Flowers will be as enjoyable to bake as they are to eat!

How to Make Almond Fairy Cakes with Candied Borage Flowers

Prepare the Flowers: Carefully harvest fresh borage flowers and rinse them gently under cool water. Brush each flower with egg white, then sprinkle granulated sugar over them. Set them aside to dry completely, as this helps them become beautifully candied.
Make the Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, beat softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until fluffy and light in color. Add in the egg whites and vanilla extract, then mix until combined. Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour and baking powder, alternating with milk, until you achieve a smooth batter.
Bake the Cakes: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Fill lined cupcake tins with the batter, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for approximately 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool completely.
Prepare the Fondant: In a saucepan over low heat, combine powdered sugar with a few drops of water and almond extract, stirring until smooth. Adjust as necessary to achieve a pourable consistency.
Assemble the Cakes: Once the cakes are cooled, pour the almond-scented fondant over each cake, letting it cascade down the sides for a lovely finish. Decorate generously with your candied borage flowers on top, creating a stunning presentation.

Optional: Dust with a little extra powdered sugar for added sweetness and decoration.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Almond Fairy Cakes

Room Temperature: Store Almond Fairy Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and delightful texture.
Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate the cakes, ensuring they are well-covered. They will last up to a week in the fridge, but might lose some of their original fluffiness.
Freezer: To preserve for longer, freeze the un-frosted cakes in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before decorating with fondant and candied flowers.
Reheating: If you prefer to enjoy them warm, gently reheat the cakes in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds; avoid overheating to maintain moistness.

What to Serve with Almond Fairy Cakes with Candied Borage Flowers?

Indulging in these whimsical treats opens the door to a delightful array of complementary flavors and textures. Let’s explore some perfect pairings for a magical dessert experience.

Light Tea: A fragrant herbal tea, such as chamomile or jasmine, enhances the floral notes while balancing the sweetness of the cakes.
Fruity Sauces: A berry coulis provides a tangy contrast that beautifully complements the almond flavor and adds a burst of freshness.
Classic Cream: Whipped cream or a dollop of crème fraîche brings a luscious creamy texture that contrasts perfectly with the airy cakes.
Sparkling Water: A refreshing option, lemon-infused sparkling water cleanses the palate and adds a hint of zesty brightness to each bite.
Sweet Wine: Consider a light dessert wine, like a Moscato or a Riesling; its fruity notes pair wonderfully with the cakes’ delicate sweetness.
Chocolate Drizzle: A simple dark chocolate ganache adds a rich, bittersweet element that harmonizes beautifully with the light, nutty flavors.

Pairing each of these suggestions with Almond Fairy Cakes will take your dessert experience to the next level, turning any gathering into a memorable occasion.

Almond Fairy Cake Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these delightful treats with these fun, delicious swaps!

Flavored Fondant: Add a few drops of citrus zest, like orange or lemon, to the fondant for a refreshing twist. The tangy addition will play beautifully with the sweetness of the cakes.
Chocolate Fairy Cakes: Swap out some of the flour for cocoa powder in your batter for a rich, chocolatey version. Chocolate and almonds create a heavenly pairing that no one can resist!
Nut-Free Alternative: Replace almond extract with vanilla extract and use sunflower seed butter for an equally delightful nut-free option that retains its charm.
Fruit-Topped Delight: Instead of candied borage flowers, use fresh berries or slices of seasonal fruits to top your fairy cakes. They add a burst of color and a juicy bite perfect for summer gatherings.
Spiced Cakes: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into your cake batter for a subtly spiced flavor that warms up every bite. This cozy variation is perfect for cooler months.
Miniature Versions: Bake in mini muffin tins for bite-sized treats! They’re perfect for parties and allow everyone to savor this charming dessert without overindulging.
Vegan Adaptation: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) for a delightful vegan version that’s just as scrumptious!
Savory Twist: Try adding a hint of cheese, like goat cheese, to the fondant for a sophisticated savory pairing. This unexpected twist delights the palate in the most delicious way!

Expert Tips for Almond Fairy Cakes

Freshness is Key: Use vibrant, fresh borage flowers for the best flavor and visual appeal. Avoid wilted or discolored flowers.
Consistent Batter: Ensure the butter is at room temperature before creaming to get the light, airy texture essential for your almond fairy cakes.
Perfect Pouring Fondant: If your poured fondant thickens, reheat it in the microwave for about 15 seconds to restore its pourable consistency.
Don’t Overfill: Fill cupcake liners only two-thirds full to prevent overflow and maintain perfect cake shape.
Cooling Time: Allow the almond fairy cakes to cool completely before pouring fondant to prevent melting and ensure a beautiful finish.
Embrace Creativity: Experiment with different edible flowers or flavored extracts to customize your almond fairy cakes for every occasion!

Make Ahead Options

These Almond Fairy Cakes with Candied Borage Flowers are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the candied borage flowers up to 24 hours in advance by following the steps outlined in the recipe, allowing them to dry properly to maintain their vibrant color and texture. Additionally, the fairy cakes can be baked ahead and stored unfrosted in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply finish by pouring the almond-scented fondant on top and decorating with the lovely candied flowers. This way, you’ll have delightful, elegant treats ready for any occasion with minimal fuss!

Almond Fairy Cakes with Candied Borage Flowers Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best borage flowers for candying?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for vibrant, fresh borage flowers free from dark spots or wilting. They should be firm and full of color, which indicates they’re at their peak freshness. If you can’t find borage flowers, alternatives like violets or pansies provide a beautiful touch as well!

What’s the best way to store Almond Fairy Cakes?
The more the merrier when it comes to keeping these beauties fresh! Store your Almond Fairy Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you wish to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week, ensuring they are well covered to maintain moisture.

Can I freeze the Almond Fairy Cakes, and how?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to preserve these delightful cakes. To freeze, first make sure they are unfrosted. Wrap each cake tightly with plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the cakes in the refrigerator overnight and add your fondant and candied flowers before serving.

Why did my fondant not pour smoothly over the cakes?
Very common! If your poured fondant is too thick, it might not glide over the cakes smoothly. To fix this, reheat the fondant in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, stirring in between until it’s back to a pourable consistency. If your fondant is too thin, mix in a bit of powdered sugar to thicken it up slightly.

Are these cakes safe for pets?
Yes, but always exercise caution! While the ingredients in Almond Fairy Cakes are generally safe for humans, they may not be suitable for pets, especially the added sugar. To be on the safe side, it’s best not to share these treats with your furry friends.

Can I use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure to include the same quantity, and your Almond Fairy Cakes will still come out delightfully airy and fluffy!