Fine crumb:Toasted almond madeira cake.William MeppemSubtle and delicate,perfect in the late afternoon served sliced with cherry preserve and creme fraiche on the side,and small glasses of madeira to wash it down. It's worth taking a bit of time to get this cake right. The old technique I've used for this madeira cake is called the"flour batter"method,and gives a finer crumb. You can try it on your favourite butter cake recipes too,and see what you think.