Yucatán's heavenly almond cake is a light, flourless dessert with delicate flavor. This family celebration dessert is a gluten-free, elegant treat perfect for special occasions.
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper, greasing the sides lightly.
Pulse the blanched almonds in a food processor until finely ground but not paste-like; set aside.
Separate the eggs, placing yolks and whites in two large bowls.
Beat egg yolks with sugar until thick and pale, then mix in vanilla extract and lemon zest.
Fold ground almonds and salt into the yolk mixture, blending gently with a spatula for an airy batter.
Whip egg whites with a clean mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, being careful not to overbeat.
Gently fold one-third of the beaten egg whites into the almond mixture to lighten it, then fold in the rest in two additions, maintaining as much volume as possible.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake on the center rack for 35–40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and springs back lightly when touched; do not overbake.
Cool the cake in the pan for 15 minutes, then release the springform and cool completely before slicing and serving.