Almond Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe

If you have a soft spot for moist, flavorful cakes that feel like a warm, comforting hug, you are going to love this Almond Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe. It’s a delightful marriage of tender almond-scented cake and luscious whipped cream frosting that feels utterly indulgent without being overwhelming. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply craving a sweet treat, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles and that happy “made-from-scratch” feeling to your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple yet essential ingredients come together beautifully to create the perfect balance of texture and flavor in your almond cake. Each one plays a role, from the nuttiness of the almond flour to the light fluffiness provided by eggs and baking soda, culminating in a cake that’s tender and moist with a touch of indulgence from the whipped cream frosting.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cake ensuring it holds together perfectly.
• Ground almond flour: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and tender crumb that defines the cake.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Give the cake a light and airy rise, avoiding any heaviness.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness beautifully.
• Unsalted butter: Offers moisture and richness to the crumb, plus a silky texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweeps the cake into sweet territory without overpowering the almonds.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s tenderness and lift.
• Vanilla and almond extracts: Amplify the almond’s natural flavor with complimentary hints.
• Milk or buttermilk: Keeps the batter smooth and moist, enhancing the cake’s softness.
• Sliced almonds (optional): A crunchy, toasty topping that adds pleasing texture and visual appeal.
• Heavy cream: Whisked into frosting that’s light, fluffy, and perfectly sweetened.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without grittiness, providing a smooth finish.

How to Make Almond Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your cake doesn’t stick and comes out cleanly after baking. A well-prepared pan sets the stage for a flawless cake release.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients before combining with wet ingredients helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout your batter, ensuring a uniform rise and crumb.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is key because properly creamed butter traps air, which contributes to the cake’s light and tender texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in both the vanilla and almond extracts. This layering of flavors creates a beautifully fragrant batter that will shine through once baked.

Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk

Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk or buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until everything is combined; overmixing can make the cake dense and tough.

Step 6: Add Toppings and Bake

Pour your thick, smooth batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. For an extra touch of crunch and beauty, sprinkle sliced almonds evenly over the batter. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling it’s perfectly cooked through.

Step 7: Cool the Cake

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to firm up, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling fully before frosting is essential to prevent the whipped cream from melting or sliding off.

Step 8: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream using an electric mixer until it begins to thicken. Then add powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue beating until soft peaks form. This fluffy frosting adds a delightful creaminess that complements the almond cake perfectly.

Step 9: Frost the Cake

Spread your freshly whipped cream frosting over the cooled cake, or keep it on the side for guests to add themselves. This versatility makes serving easy and utterly inviting.

How to Serve Almond Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

The simplest garnishes often make the biggest impression. Dusting your Almond Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or adding a handful of fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries not only enhances the appearance but adds a pop of color and subtle tartness to balance the sweetness.

Side Dishes

This almond cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a light, fruity tea. For an extra special touch, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of berry compote alongside elevates this dessert into a show-stopping treat for any occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, layer slices of this cake in clear dessert trifle bowls alternating with layers of whipped cream and toasted almonds. Or, serve individual slices topped with a sprig of mint and a few edible flowers for an elegant touch that’s perfect for entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is always a wonderful problem!), store the almond cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container in the refrigerator. The whipped cream frosting is delicate, so keeping it chilled prevents it from weeping and keeps the cake fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the almond cake without frosting by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before adding freshly whipped cream frosting for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Since this cake is best served chilled or at room temperature, reheating is generally not recommended. However, if you prefer it warm, gently warm a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, but do not add frosting before warming to keep the texture perfect.

FAQs

Can I substitute almond flour with another type of flour?

While almond flour is key for that signature nutty flavor and tender crumb, you could substitute with all-purpose flour exclusively. This will change the texture and flavor, making the cake less moist and fragrant, but it will still be delicious.

Is it necessary to use both vanilla and almond extracts?

Using both extracts layers the flavor, with vanilla providing a warm base and almond extract enhancing the nutty nuances. You can use just almond extract if you prefer a stronger almond taste or just vanilla for a milder flavor.

What’s the best way to whip heavy cream for frosting?

For best results, chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before whipping. Start beating the cream slowly and gradually increase speed, adding powdered sugar and vanilla once it begins to thicken. Stop once soft peaks form for a light, fluffy frosting.

Can this cake be made gluten-free?

Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, and ensure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free. The almond flour already contributes richness, so it works wonderfully for a gluten-free version.

How long does it take to make the entire Almond Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe?

From start to finish, including baking and frosting, expect to spend about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. This is a fantastic investment of time for such a scrumptious, homemade cake that’s sure to impress.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about pulling together the Almond Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe in your own kitchen. It’s a cake that delivers warmth, elegance, and a little bit of magic with every bite. Whether you’re baking for loved ones, a celebration, or just because you deserve something wonderful, this recipe is a must-try. Once you do, it will surely become one of your favorite go-to desserts to share and savor.

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