Description
This moist and flavorful almond cake combines the rich taste of almond paste with subtle vanilla and almond extracts, creating a dense yet delicate dessert perfect for any occasion. Topped with sliced almonds and a sprinkle of granulated sugar, this cake offers a delightful crunch and a beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Batter
- 7 oz almond paste
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 cup whole milk, room temperature
Topping
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (optional)
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar (vanilla bean sugar recommended)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan, then line the bottom with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper to ensure easy removal of the cake after baking.
- Process almond paste and sugar: Place the almond paste and 3/4 cup granulated sugar into a food processor bowl. Pulse the mixture until it resembles fine crumbs, breaking down the almond paste evenly.
- Add butter: Add the softened unsalted butter to the food processor and process until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
- Incorporate eggs and extracts: Add the eggs, almond extract, vanilla extract, and whole milk into the food processor. Mix until the batter is uniformly combined and smooth.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and salt.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the food processor. Blend just until the flour mixture disappears, being careful not to overmix to maintain the cake’s tender crumb.
- Prepare for baking: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the surface evenly. Sprinkle the top with 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar and sliced almonds if using, for a crunchy and sweet topping.
- Bake the cake: Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn the cake out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Room temperature ingredients contribute to a better emulsification and smoother batter.
- Do not overmix the batter once dry ingredients are added to avoid a dense cake texture.
- Using vanilla bean sugar for topping adds extra depth of flavor but regular granulated sugar works fine.
- The almond paste can sometimes be sticky; chopping it into smaller pieces before processing can help.
- The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: almond cake, almond paste cake, moist almond cake, nutty dessert, easy almond cake recipe, almond extract cake
