Cardamom Kumquat Mini Loaf

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups almond flour
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/3 palm shortening or ghee (softened or melted + cooled)
• 4 eggs
• 1 tablespoon kumquat juice
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sliced kumquats
• Maple sugar, to top

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together first five ingredients until well combined.  In another mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, palm shortening, eggs, kumquat juice and vanilla extract.  Slowly fold wet ingredients into the dry. Stir in kumquats, reserving a small handful to top.
3. Grease a 4x3 or small nonstick loaf pan or use parchment paper to line the inside.  Pour in batter about 3/4 full, then top with reserved, sliced kumquats and a sprinkle of maple sugar.  Bake in the oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.  Let cool for 20 minutes, then serve immediately. (Repeat for another loaf, as this recipe will make two mini loaves or one large loaf)