How to Make a Classic Almond Cake with Glaze

How to Make a Classic Almond Cake with Glaze

Almond cake is a timeless dessert, celebrated for its rich, nutty flavor and delicate texture. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday treat, this cake is sure to impress. The addition of a simple glaze enhances the almond flavor and adds a glossy finish to the cake, making it visually appealing and irresistibly delicious. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a classic almond cake with a glaze.

Ingredients for the Almond Cake

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup ground almonds (almond meal)
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds (for topping, optional)

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Equipment Needed:

• 9-inch round cake pan
• Mixer (hand or stand)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cooling rack
• Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl for the glaze

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cake Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and lightly flour it or line it with parchment paper to ensure the cake doesn’t stick. This will help the cake release easily once it’s baked.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting helps prevent lumps and ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. The air whipped into the butter and sugar will give the cake a light texture.

4. Add the Eggs, Extracts, and Ground Almonds

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract. The almond extract will infuse the cake with a subtle almond flavor. Finally, fold in the ground almonds (almond meal), which will add moisture and a nutty texture to the cake.

5. Alternate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin with one-third of the dry ingredients, followed by half of the buttermilk, then repeat until all the flour mixture and buttermilk are incorporated. Be sure not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake. Mix until just combined.

6. Pour the Batter into the Pan

Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles. If you prefer, you can sprinkle some sliced almonds on top for added texture and a decorative finish.

7. Bake the Cake

Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on it towards the end to ensure it doesn’t overbake.

8. Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. This will help it set and reduce the risk of breaking. Once the cake has cooled completely, you can begin preparing the glaze.

How to Make the Glaze

The glaze is simple to make and adds the perfect finishing touch to the almond cake. It provides a sweet, slightly creamy texture that complements the nutty flavor of the cake.

1. Prepare the Glaze Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or cream), almond extract, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If the glaze is too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency. The glaze should be pourable but not too runny.

2. Drizzle the Glaze Over the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top of the cake. You can use a spoon or a small spatula to spread it out if needed. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving. If you’d like a thicker layer of glaze, you can repeat the glazing process after the first layer has set.

Tips for a Perfect Almond Cake

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, butter, and buttermilk are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures better cake texture.

2. Use Almond Meal: Ground almonds (almond meal) are key to giving the cake its moist texture and nutty flavor. Don’t substitute them with almond flour, as it can alter the consistency.

3. Test for Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking the cake at the 30-minute mark. If the toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, the cake is done.

4. Variations: For an extra indulgent version of this cake, you can add a handful of chopped chocolate or drizzle melted chocolate over the glaze. You can also add a bit of orange zest to the batter for a citrus twist.

5. Make Ahead: The almond cake can be baked a day in advance. Just wrap it in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature until you’re ready to serve. Glaze it just before serving for a fresh look.

Serving Suggestions

This classic almond cake with glaze is perfect on its own or paired with a cup of tea or coffee. If you’re looking for an elegant presentation, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a few fresh berries on the side. You can also cut the cake into small squares for a delightful afternoon snack.

Almond cake is a versatile dessert that can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a formal event or enjoying a quiet afternoon, this cake is sure to please everyone with its moist crumb and irresistible almond flavor.