There is more than one surprise to this sweet bread made from a simple batter. When you cut into it you'll find the sugary almonds hiding on the bottom of each slice, but one person will also find a shiny new coin to signify luck for the new year.
INGREDIENTS (for 1 servings):
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups white sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 6 eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cup milk, lukewarm
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/3 cup slivered almonds, toasted
- 1 tablespoon white sugar
- 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
PREPARATION:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Generously grease a round 10 inch cake pan.
In a medium bowl, cream butter and 2 cups sugar until light; add flour and stir until mixture is mealy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each egg.
Stir baking powder into milk then stir into flour mixture. Mix soda and lemon juice; stir into batter. Pour batter into greased pan.
Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes. Sprinkle with nuts and 1 tablespoon white sugar, then return to oven for 20 to 30 minutes longer, until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Remove from oven and gently cut a small hole in the cake. Place a quarter in the hole, then sprinkle confectioners' sugar over cake, making sure to cover the hole. Cool cake on a rack for about 10 minutes, then place a dish over the top of the pan and turn over. Serve warm.