Name: Almond Flour Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 large eggs (whites and yolks separated); 1 cup sugar (plus 2 tablespoons, divided); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon pure almond extract; 1 teaspoon cream of tartar; 1 cup almond flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder ((aluminum-free recommended)); 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 tablespoons lemon zest ((about 2 medium lemons)); Sliced berries for serving; Toasted slivered almonds for serving; Whipped cream for serving

If you’re searching for a light, fluffy, and utterly delightful dessert, look no further than this Almond Flour Cake! This cake is a perfect blend of rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake will surely please everyone at the table. With its tender crumb and subtle nutty flavor, it’s bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

The Upside of Almond Flour Cake

Almond flour is not just a gluten-free alternative; it also adds a lovely moistness and a slight sweetness to baked goods. When you use almond flour in a cake, you create a texture that is both tender and rich without being heavy. This Almond Flour Cake is naturally sweetened and flavored with vanilla and almond extracts, making it a delightful base for toppings like fresh berries and whipped cream. Plus, using egg whites and yolks separately allows for a light and airy cake that stands tall and proud. It’s a guilt-free dessert option that feels indulgent without the extra calories.

What You’ll Gather

4 large eggs (whites and yolks separated)
1 cup sugar plus 2 tablespoons, divided
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon pure almond extract
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 cup almond flour
1 teaspoon baking powder (aluminum-free recommended)
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons lemon zest (about 2 medium lemons)
Sliced berries for serving
Toasted slivered almonds for serving
Whipped cream for serving

Gear Up: What to Grab

Mixing bowls – You’ll need a few different sizes for mixing and whipping.
Electric mixer – A stand or hand mixer will make whipping egg whites a breeze.
Spatula – For folding in the almond flour and ensuring a gentle mix.
9-inch round cake pan – Greased and lined with parchment paper for easy release.
Zester – To get that fresh lemon flavor from the zest.

Cook Almond Flour Cake Like This

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare Your Cake Pan

Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. This helps in removing the cake easily once it’s baked.

Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites

In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg whites and cream of tartar. Using an electric mixer, whip until soft peaks form. Gradually add in 2 tablespoons of sugar, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. Set aside.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, remaining sugar (1 cup), vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon zest until well combined and slightly fluffy.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent throughout the flour.

Step 6: Fold It All Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the batter light.

Step 7: Incorporate the Egg Whites

Now, fold in the whipped egg whites in three additions, ensuring that you maintain the airiness of the batter. This step is crucial for a fluffy cake.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool Down

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Spring to Winter: Ideas

Add seasonal fruits as toppings: fresh strawberries in spring, peaches in summer, apples in fall, and pomegranates in winter.
For a festive twist, drizzle with a light lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm flavor profile.
Top with a dollop of flavored whipped cream, such as vanilla bean or honey.

Cook’s Notes

Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature for best results. Cold egg whites do not whip as well. For a more pronounced almond flavor, feel free to increase the almond extract slightly. If you’re looking to cut back on sugar, you can substitute with a natural sweetener of your choice, keeping in mind that this may alter the texture slightly.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Almond Flour Cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Ask the Chef

Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?

While you can substitute regular flour, this will alter the texture and flavor of the cake. Almond flour provides a unique moisture and nuttiness that is hard to replicate with wheat flour.

What can I use instead of sugar?

You can use natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. Just keep in mind that liquid sweeteners will affect the moisture content, so adjustments to other ingredients may be necessary.

Can I make this cake in advance for a special occasion?

Absolutely! This cake is perfect for making ahead of time. Just ensure you store it properly to maintain its freshness.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

Using almond flour already makes this cake gluten-free. Just be sure that all other ingredients you use, such as baking powder and extracts, are gluten-free as well.

Explore More

Sally’s Baking Addiction – For more delicious dessert recipes.
Pinch of Yum – Explore a variety of healthy and satisfying dishes.
Minimalist Baker – Simple, quick recipes with minimal ingredients.
Cooking Light – Healthy recipes that are full of flavor.

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the details to create a stunning Almond Flour Cake, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start baking! This cake is a wonderful canvas that allows you to express your creativity, whether through toppings, flavor variations, or decorations. With its delightful flavor and texture, you’ll find that this cake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also becomes a staple in your dessert rotation. Happy baking!