Ina Garten’s Almond Cake: A Buttery, Nutty Delight

When it comes to baking, few things are as comforting as a beautifully moist, rich almond cake. And if there’s one person we can trust to deliver a flawless, foolproof recipe, it’s Ina Garten. Known for her elegant yet approachable cooking style, Ina’s almond cake is the perfect combination of buttery richness, nutty depth, and a hint of citrus, all topped with a delicate layer of sliced almonds for a delightful crunch.

This almond cake is one of those recipes everyone falls in love with—it’s simple, flavorful, and versatile enough to serve at brunch, afternoon tea, or as a stunning dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh fruit. So, if you’re looking for the ultimate crowd-pleaser, this is it!

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What Makes This Almond Cake Special?

This cake isn’t just another dessert—it’s an experience. Here’s why it stands out:

• Rich Almond Flavor: The combination of almond flour and almond extract creates a deep, nutty taste.
• Moist and Tender: Thanks to a balance of butter, sour cream, and eggs, the cake is incredibly moist without being heavy.
• Crispy, Sweet Almond Topping: Sliced almonds and sugar create a lightly caramelized, crunchy top layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
• Ina Garten’s Signature Simplicity: Like all of Ina’s recipes, this one is easy to follow and perfect every time.

Now, let’s dive into making this elegant yet effortless almond cake.

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon pure almond extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup almond flour (or finely ground almonds)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

For the Topping:

• ½ cup sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare the Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat butter and sugar together on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.

3. Mix Dry & Wet Ingredients Separately

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flours, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• On low speed, add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
• Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!

4. Assemble & Add Topping

• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over the batter.
• Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of sugar on top to create a slightly crisp, caramelized topping.

5. Bake to Perfection

• Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it from the springform pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Serving & Storage

This cake is best enjoyed at room temperature, where the flavors can fully develop. It pairs wonderfully with:

• A cup of coffee or tea
• A dusting of powdered sugar
• Fresh berries and whipped cream
• A drizzle of honey or a spoonful of fruit preserves

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage.

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Tips for the Perfect Almond Cake

• Use good-quality almond extract. It’s the key to the cake’s rich almond flavor.
• Room temperature ingredients make a huge difference in how well the batter comes together.
• Don’t overbake! The cake should be golden brown but still moist inside—check with a toothpick.
• Add a hint of citrus. If you want a little extra brightness, add 1 teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the batter.

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Why This Cake is a Must-Try

Ina Garten’s Almond Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of simple elegance. Whether you serve it at a dinner party, bake it for a cozy Sunday afternoon, or gift it to a friend, it’s always a hit. With its perfect balance of texture, richness, and nutty goodness, this cake is proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most memorable.

So, bake this cake today and enjoy a slice of sweet, buttery perfection!

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