Almond Cake (A Scratch Recipe)

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Homemade Almond Cake made from scratch with frosting and almonds on top.

Almond cakes are a delightful treat, perfect for celebrations or a simple afternoon snack. With their moist texture and rich almond flavor, they can easily become a favorite in any household. This Almond Cake (A Scratch Recipe) brings together the warmth of home baking with the delicious taste of almonds, making it a truly special dessert. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this cake will surely impress your family and friends!

Gather Your Almond Cake Ingredients

To make this scrumptious Almond Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cake:

  • ½ cup (50g) sliced almonds
  • 1 ½ sticks (170g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups (400g) sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 cups (360g) cake flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 ¼ cups (300ml) buttermilk
  • ¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon almond extract

For the Frosting:

  • 2 sticks (226g) unsalted butter, slightly softened
  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 teaspoons almond extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt (optional)
  • 6 to 6 ½ cups (750g – 800g) powdered sugar

Step-by-Step Almond Cake Recipe

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the baking process:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round pans. For added flavor, sprinkle chopped almonds over the parchment paper at the bottom of the pans.

  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, vegetable oil, and almond extract.

  3. In a mixer, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and mix until the mixture is fluffy and light. Then, add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next.

  4. Alternately add the flour mixture and the buttermilk mixture to the batter, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

  5. Divide the batter evenly among the three pans, pouring it over the chopped almonds. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for a few minutes before removing them.

  6. For the frosting, start by beating the softened butter in a large bowl. Once it’s smooth, add the cream cheese and mix until well combined. Gradually add almond extract and powdered sugar, beating until fluffy and creamy.

  7. Once the cakes are completely cooled, frost the layers generously with the almond cream cheese frosting. Decorate as desired, perhaps with more sliced almonds or a drizzle of chocolate!

The Best Way to Serve It

Serving this Almond Cake can be just as delightful as making it. Here are some tasty serving suggestions:

  • Slice and Serve: Cut the cake into wedges and serve on a beautiful cake stand or directly on your favorite plates.
  • Accompany with Coffee or Tea: This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it an excellent afternoon treat.
  • Garnish: For an extra touch, consider garnishing with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar to enhance presentation.

Helpful Tricks for Almond Cake

To make your baking experience even better, here are a few tips:

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and a better texture.
  • Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix only until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
  • Flavor Variations: If you love experimenting, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a dash of lemon zest to the batter for a delightful twist!

Almond Cake FAQs

How do I store leftover Almond Cake?

Store any leftover almond cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to a week, but it’s best enjoyed within a few days!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cakes in advance and store them un-frosted in the refrigerator or freezer. Just frost them on the day you plan to serve.

Can I replace buttermilk with regular milk?

Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the acidity.

This Almond Cake (A Scratch Recipe) is not only delicious but also a joy to bake. It’s creamy, sweet, and has that wonderful almond flavor that everyone loves. So go ahead, give it a try, and bring the delight of homemade cake to your kitchen!