Almond Cake {So Easy} – A Soft, Buttery Classic You’ll Make Again and Again

If you’re looking for a cake recipe that’s simple, elegant, and full of flavor, this Easy Almond Cake is a must-bake. With its rich almond flavor, tender crumb, and delightfully crisp top studded with sugared almonds, this cake comes together in minutes and delivers maximum payoff with minimal effort. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is your golden ticket to a no-fail dessert that will steal the show at any gathering.

This cake is perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or a low-key dessert that still feels indulgent. It also makes a beautiful homemade gift or hostess offering. And the best part? You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry!

Let’s dive into the details that make this Almond Cake a staple recipe worth bookmarking.

Why You’ll Love This Almond Cake

This cake is:

• Effortlessly elegant – A refined dessert without the fuss.

• Incredibly moist – Thanks to the almond paste and butter.

• Rich in almond flavor – Enhanced with almond extract and topped with sliced almonds.

• Versatile – Dress it up with berries and whipped cream or keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar.

• Quick and easy – From prep to oven in under 15 minutes!

This recipe is perfect for:

• Busy bakers looking for a reliable, no-fail recipe.

• Almond lovers who crave that rich, nutty flavor.

• Entertainers needing a quick yet impressive dessert.

• Anyone who loves a buttery, tender crumb in their cake.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy almond cake:

For the Cake:

• 4 oz almond paste – The star of the show. It adds intense almond flavor and moisture.

• ½ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens and helps grind the almond paste in the processor.

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and helps create a light, fluffy texture.

• 3 large eggs – Bind the batter and provide structure.

• ½ tsp almond extract – Enhances the almond flavor.

• ½ cup all-purpose flour – Just enough to hold everything together.

• ½ tsp baking powder – For a gentle rise.

• ¼ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness.

For the Topping:

• ½ cup sliced almonds – Toast on top while baking for a crunchy finish.

• 1–2 tbsp granulated sugar – Adds a sweet, sparkly crunch.

Optional for Serving:

• Powdered sugar

• Fresh whipped cream

• Mixed berries (raspberries and blueberries work beautifully)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F and position a rack in the center. Line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and grease the sides and bottom. This ensures a clean release after baking.

2. Make the Batter

In a food processor, crumble in the almond paste. Add granulated sugar and pulse until the mixture is finely ground. Add softened butter and continue processing until smooth – it may clump into a ball initially, but keep going until silky.

Add the eggs and almond extract. Pulse until combined, scraping down the sides as needed.

Finally, sprinkle in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Pulse until just combined. Don’t overmix.

3. Pour and Top

Scrape the batter into your prepared pan. Smooth the surface and tap gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.

Top with sliced almonds and sprinkle with sugar. For even coverage, add half the almonds and sugar first, then repeat.

4. Bake and Cool

Bake for 23–26 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool the cake in the pan on a wire rack for 30 minutes. Then, carefully remove it from the pan and return it to the rack to finish cooling completely.

If a few almonds fall off, just press them back gently.

5. Serve

Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve as-is, or top slices with whipped cream and berries for a truly elegant finish.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• 8-inch round cake pan

• Parchment paper

• Food processor

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Rubber spatula

• Wire cooling rack

• Toothpick (for doneness testing)

Storage Tips

Leftovers

This almond cake stores beautifully!

• Room Temperature: Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerator: Extend freshness up to 5 days in the fridge (just bring to room temp before serving for best flavor).

• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

While it’s best at room temperature, a short 10-second zap in the microwave gives it that fresh-baked warmth.

Substitutions and Variations

Almond Paste Alternatives

If you can’t find almond paste, make your own by blending:

• ¾ cup almond flour

• ¾ cup powdered sugar

• 1 egg white

• ½ tsp almond extract

Flour Alternatives

Try cake flour for a slightly softer crumb, or substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour if needed.

Flavor Add-ins

• Add a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest for a citrusy twist.

• Stir in a handful of mini chocolate chips before baking.

• Replace sliced almonds with chopped pistachios or hazelnuts for a nutty variation.

Food & Drink Pairings

Drinks:

• A strong espresso or rich café au lait

• A glass of dry prosecco or almond liqueur (like Amaretto)

• Chai tea with spices to complement the almond

Food Pairings:

• Serve with fresh raspberries and mascarpone cream

• Enjoy with a light fruit salad or berry compote

• Add a scoop of vanilla gelato or honey ice cream

FAQ – Almond Cake {So Easy}

Q: Can I use marzipan instead of almond paste?
A: Not ideal. Marzipan is sweeter and softer. Almond paste has more almond flavor and less sugar, making it better for baking.

Q: Can I bake this in a different pan?
A: Yes! An 8-inch square pan works, or even a 9-inch round, but the cake will be slightly thinner and may bake faster. Check at the 20-minute mark.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This cake is even better the next day once the flavors have melded. Make a day in advance and store at room temp.

Q: Do I need a food processor?
A: It’s strongly recommended for smooth batter, but a hand mixer can work if you finely chop the almond paste first.

Final Thoughts 

This Easy Almond Cake is proof that simple baking doesn’t have to mean boring. With a short list of ingredients and minimal prep, you get a bakery-worthy cake that works for any occasion—from lazy weekend mornings to fancy holiday dinners.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Tag your creations, leave a comment below, and share this post with your fellow baking enthusiasts. Don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more easy, delicious, and foolproof recipes sent straight to your inbox.

Happy baking!