Ina Garten Almond Cake

Made with fine almond flour and naturally sweetened with pure maple syrup, this elegant cake delivers an incredibly moist, tender crumb with a delightful nutty flavor. The combination of almond extract and toasted almonds creates an aromatic experience that makes this cake perfect for any occasion.

Making this cake has become a monthly tradition in my home. Last Sunday, I served it to my neighbor who follows a gluten-free diet, and she was amazed by how rich and satisfying each bite was without being overly sweet.

Kitchen Essentials For Success

• Fine Blanched Almond Flour: Choose fresh, high-quality flour for optimal texture and nutty flavor. Fresh almond flour should smell sweet and nutty, never bitter or rancid
• Raw Sliced Almonds: Look for uniformly cut pieces without any discoloration. Fresh almonds should be cream-colored without any yellow spots
• Pure Maple Syrup: Select dark amber syrup for its robust flavor that enhances the almond notes
• Large Eggs: Must be room temperature for proper incorporation and even rise
• Quality Oil: Either olive or avocado oil works perfectly, adding moisture without heaviness
• Pure Extracts: Both almond and vanilla extracts should be pure, not artificial, for authentic flavor
• Baking Powder: Check for freshness as it's crucial for proper rise
• Fine Sea Salt: Enhances all flavors and balances sweetness

Baking Your Perfect Cake

Oven Mastery:

Begin by positioning your rack in the middle and preheating to exactly 350°F. This precise temperature ensures even baking and proper rise.

Toast The Almonds:

Carefully toast your sliced almonds until just golden, watching closely to prevent burning. The aroma will tell you when they're perfectly done.

Create The Base:

Mix your wet ingredients separately from dry ingredients, ensuring each is properly combined before bringing them together.

Final Assembly:

Pour the smooth batter into your prepared pan, topping with toasted almonds and a pinch of flaky sea salt.

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The almond extract is particularly crucial in this recipe. When teaching my daughter to make this cake, I showed her how just a small amount transforms the flavor from good to exceptional.

Time Management

Toasting the almonds in advance is a smart way to save time while preparing the other ingredients. Once the almonds are ready, you can focus on assembling the dish without interruptions. This step not only streamlines the process but also enhances the final texture and flavor.

Perfect Pairings

Serve your creation with a handful of fresh seasonal berries for a pop of color and tangy sweetness. A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a rich, creamy contrast, perfect for elevating the dessert into something truly special. You can also drizzle with honey or chocolate sauce for an extra indulgence.

Creative Variations

Personalize the recipe by swapping the almonds for toasted hazelnuts or pistachios. Add grated citrus zest like lemon or orange for a burst of brightness. You can even mix in spices like cinnamon or cardamom to create a warming, aromatic touch that complements the dish beautifully.

Storage Solutions

To keep your dish fresh, transfer it to an airtight container and store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a humid environment, consider refrigerating it to preserve its texture. Just bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

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After years of baking almond-based desserts, this recipe stands out for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. It's become my go-to recipe for both casual family gatherings and elegant dinner parties, proving its versatility with each serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute the maple syrup with another sweetener?

Yes, you can use honey or agave nectar as alternatives to maple syrup in equal amounts.

→ How should I store this almond cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Why do I need to toast the almonds first?

Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch to the cake's texture.

→ Can I freeze this almond cake?

Yes, wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Do I need a springform pan to make this cake?

While a springform pan makes removal easier, you can use a regular 8-inch round cake pan lined with parchment paper.