Almond Cream Cake is a luxurious dessert that’s moist, fluffy, and bursting with almond flavor. With layers of tender cake, creamy almond filling, and a luscious frosting, this treat is perfect for special occasions or simply indulging your sweet tooth.
Ingredients for Almond Cream Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to create this stunning dessert:
For the Cake:
- All-Purpose Flour (2½ cups)
The foundation of the cake. Be sure to measure accurately for the best texture. - Granulated Sugar (1½ cups)
Adds sweetness and helps the cake stay moist. - Baking Powder (2 teaspoons)
Ensures the cake rises beautifully. - Salt (½ teaspoon)
Balances the sweetness and enhances the almond flavor. - Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened)
Adds richness and creates a tender crumb. - Egg Whites (4 large)
Contribute to the light, airy texture of the cake. - Whole Milk (1 cup)
Keeps the cake moist and creamy. - Almond Extract (1½ teaspoons)
The star ingredient for that irresistible almond flavor.
For the Almond Cream Filling:
- Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened)
Creates a smooth, tangy base for the filling. - Powdered Sugar (1 cup)
Sweetens the filling to perfection. - Heavy Whipping Cream (½ cup)
Adds a light, fluffy texture. - Almond Extract (1 teaspoon)
Enhances the nutty flavor of the filling.
For the Frosting:
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened)
Forms the base of the frosting and adds richness. - Powdered Sugar (4 cups)
Sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth consistency. - Heavy Whipping Cream (3 tablespoons)
Helps achieve the perfect spreadable texture. - Almond Extract (1 teaspoon)
Ties the frosting to the almond theme of the cake.
For Garnish:
- Sliced Almonds (½ cup, toasted)
Adds crunch and a decorative touch.
How to Make Almond Cream Cake
Follow these steps to create a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg whites, milk, and almond extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth. Avoid overmixing.
Step 2: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Almond Cream Filling
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add the heavy whipping cream and almond extract. Beat until light and fluffy. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, alternating with the heavy cream.
- Add the almond extract and beat until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the almond cream filling evenly over the top.
- Place the second cake layer on top. Spread a thin crumb coat of frosting over the entire cake, then refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Apply a final layer of frosting, smoothing it with an offset spatula.
Step 6: Decorate and Serve
- Press the toasted sliced almonds onto the sides of the cake for a decorative touch.
- Garnish the top with additional almonds or a drizzle of almond glaze if desired.
- Slice and serve.
Equipment Needed
- Two 9-inch round cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Whisk and spatula
- Offset spatula for frosting
- Wire rack for cooling
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Almond flour has a different texture and baking properties, so it’s not a 1:1 substitute. If you want to incorporate almond flour, replace up to ¼ of the all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the cake layers and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days. Assemble and frost the cake the day you plan to serve it.
Can I use salted butter?
If using salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe by half to avoid overpowering the flavor.
How do I toast sliced almonds?
Spread the almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, or until golden and fragrant. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Wrap the unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before assembling and frosting.
Can I use a different flavor extract?
Certainly! If almond isn’t your favorite, try vanilla, lemon, or even coconut extract for a different twist.
What can I serve with this cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or a light dessert wine.
Conclusion
Almond Cream Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any time you want to impress. With its moist layers, creamy filling, and delightful almond flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite.
If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends on Facebook or save it to Pinterest for later. Happy baking!
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