Fluffy Almond Cake Recipe

As seen in Indulgent Desserts and Baked Delights for Every Occasion.

This almond cake by Ina Garten is a simple yet delightful treat. It blends fine almond flour with pure maple for a natural sweetness, resulting in a soft, moist cake. Toasted almonds on top add the perfect crispy finish, while a sprinkle of powdered sugar completes the look. With a prep time of about 35 minutes, this versatile dessert fits any occasion. Made with almond and vanilla extracts for an extra boost of flavor, it’s a delicious choice whether you're celebrating or just craving something special.
Chef with a smile, ready to cook and serve.
Created by Sandra
Fresh as of Mon, 24 Feb 2025 19:51:16 GMT
Gorgeous Almond Cake by Ina Garten Save Recipe
Gorgeous Almond Cake by Ina Garten | yummygusto.com

This classic almond cake recipe produces an exceptionally tender, fragrant dessert. The combination of fine almond flour and fresh sliced almonds creates a delicate texture and rich nutty aroma that fills the kitchen during baking.

This recipe has become a treasured family favorite, especially for celebratory gatherings. The naturally gluten-free ingredients make it perfect for guests with dietary restrictions.

Key Ingredients

  • Blanched Almond Flour: Creates the delicate, tender crumb structure
  • Large Fresh Eggs: Provide lift and rich texture
  • Pure Maple Syrup: Natural sweetener that adds moisture
  • Quality Olive Oil: Keeps the cake tender and fresh
  • Pure Almond Extract: Intensifies the nutty flavor
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds aromatic depth
  • Sliced Raw Almonds: Creates a crispy, decorative topping

Baking Instructions

Preparation:
Heat oven to 350°F. Prepare springform pan. Toast almonds until golden.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
Whisk almond flour with leavening and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
Beat eggs until fluffy, incorporate maple syrup and extracts.
Final Mixing:
Gently fold wet into dry ingredients.
Finishing:
Top with toasted almonds before baking.
Appetizing Ina Garten Amond Cake Save Recipe
Appetizing Ina Garten Amond Cake | yummygusto.com

Properly toasting the almonds develops their essential oils and deepens the cake's flavor profile. This step transforms simple ingredients into an memorable dessert.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with fresh berry compote and whipped cream for dessert. Morning servings pair beautifully with seasonal fruit and Greek yogurt.

Recipe Variations

Enhance with fresh citrus zest or dark chocolate pieces. Special occasions call for maple glaze or a light dusting of matcha powder.

Storage Guidelines

Store at room temperature in an airtight container for three days. For extended storage, freeze individual portions up to three months.

Close-up Ina Garten Almond Cake Recipe Save Recipe
Close-up Ina Garten Almond Cake Recipe | yummygusto.com

This refined almond cake balances sophisticated flavor with rustic charm. Its versatility and reliable results make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Recipe Tips & Help

→ Can I bake this almond cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it up to two days ahead. Keep it in a sealed container at room temp or refrigerate, and add powdered sugar just before you serve.
→ What else works instead of maple syrup?
You can switch maple syrup for honey or agave syrup, but it might bring a slightly different flavor to the cake.
→ Why did my cake sink in the center?
This often happens if the oven gets opened too early. Wait at least 20 minutes before peeking!
→ How can I tell when this cake is baked all the way through?
Stick a toothpick in the middle of the cake. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. The top should also look lightly golden, and the edges will pull from the pan.
→ Can I freeze this cake for later?
For sure! Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and keep it in the freezer for up to three months. Let it thaw overnight and freshen it up with new powdered sugar when serving.

Fluffy Almond Cake Recipe

Whip up a crowd-pleasing almond cake by Ina Garten, featuring almond flour, pure maple syrup, and crunchy toasted almonds for a scrumptious gluten-free option.

Preparation Time
10 Mins
Cooking Time
25 Mins
Total Time
35 Mins
Created by: Sandra

Dish Type: Sweet Treats

Skill Level: Medium

Style: American

Makes: 8 Serves

Dietary Notes: Low in Carbs, Meat-Free, No Gluten, No Dairy

What You'll Need

→ Base Ingredients

01 1/4 teaspoon salt
02 2 teaspoons baking powder
03 2 cups finely ground almond flour (blanched)
04 1/4 cup of raw almond slices, plus a little extra to sprinkle on top

→ Wet Ingredients

05 1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence
06 3 large fresh eggs
07 2 tablespoons of your choice between olive or avocado oil
08 1 teaspoon almond flavor extract
09 1/2 cup pure maple syrup

→ For Finishing

10 A sprinkle of powdered sugar for presentation

Method

01

First, set your oven to preheat at 350°F. While it’s heating up, grease an 8-inch round pan or springform pan well using cooking spray.

02

Lay out the almond slices evenly on a small tray. Toast them in the oven or a toaster oven for around 4 to 5 minutes, until they look golden but not burnt. Cool them after toasting.

03

Mix salt, baking powder, and almond flour together in a medium-sized bowl so it’s evenly blended.

04

In a big bowl, whisk your eggs, maple syrup, oil, vanilla, and almond extract until smooth and everything’s mixed well.

05

Add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture little by little. Stir gently until everything combines into a smooth batter.

06

Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Sprinkle the toasted almond slices over the top. Bake it in the oven for 20-25 minutes, checking with a toothpick to make sure it’s ready—it’ll come out clean when done.

07

Cool the cake completely while still in the pan. Dust powdered sugar lightly across the top before serving. Add a few more almond slices if you’d like a bit of extra visual charm and texture.

Cook's Tips

  1. This almond-based cake blends rich, nutty flavors with a subtle maple sweetness that feels just right.
  2. Opt for fresh almond flour for the best flavor, and tweak the maple syrup if you want to adjust the sweetness.
  3. The cake should be soft and airy, so while mixing, be thorough but don’t overdo it.

Kitchen Equipment

  • Round pan or springform pan (8 inches)
  • Tray for toasting almonds
  • Medium bowl for dry blend
  • Large bowl for wet mixture
  • A whisk

Allergen Guide

Check ingredients carefully for allergens. When in doubt, please consult your doctor.
  • Contains tree nuts (almonds)
  • Contains eggs

Nutrition Per Serving

Values are approximate and should be used as a general guide.
  • Calories: 245
  • Fat Content: 18 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Protein: 8 g