Best Almond Cake Recipe – Moist, Nutty, Fragrant & Easy

Almond Cake Recipe – There are countless cake recipes that warm the heart, but few desserts offer the same tender crumb, delicate sweetness, and nutty aroma as a beautifully baked almond cake. Loved across cultures for its light texture and sophisticated flavor profile, this timeless cake is perfect for celebrations, afternoon tea, holidays, or even as a simple everyday treat.

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: European / Mediterranean

• Course: Dessert / Tea Cake

• Servings: 8 slices

• Calories per Serving: Approx. 360 kcal

• Prep Time: 12 minutes

• Active Time: 10 minutes

• Resting Time: 10 minutes (cooling)

• Total Time: 45–50 minutes

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup (100g) almond flour (finely ground)

• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

• 1 ½ tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted or softened

• 3 large eggs

• ½ cup (120ml) milk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ tsp almond extract (optional but recommended)

Equipment Needed

• 1 mixing bowl

• 1 whisk or hand mixer

• 9-inch round cake pan

• Parchment paper

• Spatula

• Cooling rack

• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions 

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Cake Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Line a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides and bottom. This prevents sticking and helps the cake release perfectly.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine:

• Almond flour

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Salt

Whisk gently until all the dry ingredients are well incorporated. Almond flour is naturally heavier and slightly moist, so blending it evenly ensures a light and fluffy texture.

Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• Eggs

• Melted butter

• Milk

• Vanilla extract

• Almond extract

Mix until the batter becomes smooth, pale, and slightly creamy. The almond extract enhances the nutty flavor without overpowering the cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients.
Using a spatula or whisk, gently fold the ingredients together. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cake dense. The batter should be thick but pourable and silky.

Step 5: Transfer to Cake Pan

Pour the prepared batter into the greased cake pan.
Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release air bubbles and smooth the top.
If using, sprinkle sliced almonds over the top for added texture and golden crispness after baking.

Step 6: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until:

• The top turns golden brown

• The edges pull slightly away from the sides

• A toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are okay)

Step 7: Rest and Cool

Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to rest in the pan for 5–7 minutes.
Transfer to a cooling rack. Let the cake cool for another 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 8: Serve

Dust the cake with powdered sugar, drizzle with almond glaze, or pair with berries or whipped cream.

Serve warm or at room temperature—the flavors become deeper as the cake cools.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrition may vary depending on added toppings or glaze.

Tips for the Perfect Almond Cake

1. Use Finely Ground Almond Flour

Almond meal can be grainy and change the texture. For a soft crumb, use blanched almond flour.

2. Don’t Overmix

Overmixing leads to a dense cake. Fold gently and stop when everything is just combined.

3. Enhance Moisture

Adding 1–2 tablespoons of yogurt or sour cream can make the cake extra lush.

4. Add Flavor Variations

Try:

• Lemon zest for a citrus-almond blend

• Orange extract for a Mediterranean twist

• Coconut flakes for added depth

5. Make it Gluten-Free

Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.

6. Storage Tips

• Store at room temperature for 2–3 days

• Refrigerate for up to 5 days

• Freeze slices for up to 2 months

Serving Suggestions

This almond cake pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments:

• Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries

• Honey glaze or maple drizzle

• Vanilla ice cream

• Almond whipped cream

• Dark chocolate sauce

Its mild sweetness makes it ideal for pairing with coffee, chai, or herbal tea.

Why You’ll Love This Almond Cake

This recipe captures everything a perfect almond cake should be—light, moist, aromatic, and filled with the rich nuttiness that makes almond-based desserts so popular. Its simple preparation, versatile flavor, and beautiful golden appearance make it suitable for casual gatherings and elegant celebrations alike.