Għadam tal-Mejtin (Bones of the Dead) | Traditional Maltese Sweets

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil provides a dairy-free option while margarine is often less expensive.

almond extract

🥗Healthier: vanilla extract

💰Cheaper: other nut extracts

Vanilla extract is often more readily available and less costly.

powdered sugar

🥗Healthier: stevia

💰Cheaper: granulated sugar

Stevia reduces calories while granulated sugar is typically cheaper.

nuts

🥗Healthier: seeds

💰Cheaper: dried fruit

Seeds offer a nut-free alternative, while dried fruit can be less expensive.

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

Grease and flour a baking pan.

Mix flour, baking powder, and spices in a bowl.

In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Stir in almond extract and vanilla extract.

Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk until just combined.

Fold in nuts and candied fruit.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Once cooled, prepare icing by mixing powdered sugar with a little water and food coloring.

Decorate the cake with icing and additional nuts or fruit as desired.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens