The aroma of almonds wafting through the kitchen is a hug in the form of a cake. Ina Garten’s Almond Cake is not just any dessert; it’s a delightful slice of heaven that’s as comforting as your favorite pair of sweatpants on a lazy Sunday. For more inspiration, check out this more dessert recipes.
This cake has the power to elevate any occasion, whether it’s a birthday bash or just a Tuesday that needs a little sprucing up. The buttery goodness and almond flavor dance together in perfect harmony, promising an experience that will make you swoon with every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Ina Garten Almond Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for last-minute gatherings
- Its rich almond flavor offers a unique twist that surprises and delights
- The elegant presentation makes it perfect for special occasions or simply enjoying at home
- You can easily customize it with fruits or toppings to suit your taste
I still remember the first time I baked this cake for my friends. Their faces lit up like kids on Christmas morning!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Almond Flour: It gives the cake its distinct nutty flavor and tender texture, so choose finely ground flour for best results.
- All-Purpose Flour: A must-have for structure; combine it well with almond flour for balanced texture.
- Granulated Sugar: The sweet magic! Use high-quality sugar to enhance the cake’s overall flavor.
- Unsalted Butter: Opt for room temperature butter to ensure smooth mixing and rich flavor.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs are essential; they provide moisture and help bind everything together beautifully.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent gives the cake its rise, ensuring it’s light and fluffy.
- Milk: Choose whole milk for added richness, which complements the almond flavor perfectly.
- Almond Extract: A few drops enhance the almond essence; be careful not to overdo it!
- Powdered Sugar (for dusting): Adds a lovely finishing touch, making your cake Instagram-ready!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or nonstick spray.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a bowl, whisk together almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined; this ensures even distribution.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until fluffy; this usually takes about 3-5 minutes and creates a creamy base.
Add Eggs One by One: Add eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, beating well after each addition; this helps incorporate air into the batter for fluffiness.
Incorporate Dry Mixture Gradually: Slowly mix in the dry ingredients alternately with milk until just combined; don’t overmix—keep that airy texture!
Add Almond Extract Lastly: Stir in the almond extract gently; now your batter should smell like an almond paradise waiting to bake!
With these steps complete, pour your batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean—this is when you know your masterpiece is ready!
Now that you’re armed with this scrumptious recipe for Ina Garten’s Almond Cake, get ready to impress everyone around you! Enjoy each bite knowing you’ve created something truly spectacular.
You Must Know
- This delightful Ina Garten almond cake is moist, fragrant, and absolutely irresistible
- The nutty aroma fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a slice before it cools
- Perfect for any occasion, this cake will impress your guests and elevate your dessert game!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To make an Ina Garten almond cake that shines, start by creaming your butter and sugar until fluffy. Then add eggs one at a time, followed by the dry ingredients mixed carefully so everything blends beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this snacks and appetizers recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap almond extract for vanilla if you prefer a different flavor twist. Adding fresh fruits like raspberries on top can also elevate presentation and taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover almond cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it wrapped tightly or freeze for later enjoyment.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When baking this almond cake, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the texture light and tender
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting
Baking this almond cake always reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen filled with laughter and warmth. Her encouragement made every slice taste sweeter and led me to hone my baking skills.
FAQ
What can I substitute for almond flour?
You can use all-purpose flour or a gluten-free blend if needed.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.
Can I freeze the almond cake?
Yes, wrap well and freeze for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.
Indulge in Ina Garten’s Almond Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Experience the comforting embrace of Ina Garten’s Almond Cake—a delightful dessert that transforms any occasion into a celebration. With its rich almond flavor and tender texture, this cake is perfect for birthdays, casual gatherings, or simply treating yourself on a quiet afternoon. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite toppings, this cake promises to be a showstopper at your next event.
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 tsp almond extract
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
- Beat in the eggs one at a time until well incorporated.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternately with milk until just combined.
- Stir in almond extract gently.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 85g)
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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