Almonds and polenta give this easy loaf cake a wonderful texture. The cardamom adds a delicate fragrance, too – this is gluten-free baking at its best. Preheat the oven to 180C/160C Fan/Gas 4.

It looks wonderfully festive and is a great alternative to traditional Christmas cake. Equipment and preparation: you will need a 20cm/8in deep cake tin. Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4 (fan ...