Discover the rich, moist flavor of Ina Garten Almond Cake that makes every bite unforgettable. This cake blends the delicate crunch of almonds with a buttery, tender crumb, creating a dessert that feels both elegant and comforting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or looking for a cozy treat, the Ina Garten Almond Cake always steals hearts with its irresistible taste and dreamy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simply elegant: This cake showcases the natural flavor of almonds without overpowering sweetness, perfect for all palates.
Moist and tender: The use of almond meal and buttermilk ensures a moist texture that melts in your mouth.
Versatility: Whether for brunch, dessert, or a tea party, this cake fits effortlessly into any occasion.
Minimal fuss: With clean, straightforward ingredients, it’s easy to make yet feels special every time.
Beautiful presentation: Its golden crust and nutty aroma give an inviting appeal before the first bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients keep the Ina Garten Almond Cake both simple and spectacular, with each playing a critical role in flavor, texture, and color. Combining pantry staples with almond-specific components creates a cake that’s unique and wholesome.

Almond meal: Provides rich almond flavor and moist crumb texture.
All-purpose flour: Adds structure to the cake without weighing it down.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens while helping form a tender crust.
Unsalted butter: Delivers richness and helps keep the cake moist.
Buttermilk: Enhances moisture and contributes a slight tang for balance.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add fluffiness to the cake.
Almond extract: Intensifies the almond aroma for a more fragrant bite.
Baking powder: Ensures the cake rises beautifully.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Flaked almonds (optional): Adds crunch and decorative appeal on top.

Variations for Ina Garten Almond Cake

One of the best parts of the Ina Garten Almond Cake is how easy it is to adapt. Whether you want to adjust for dietary preferences or add your own twist, these variations make customizing simple and fun.

Gluten-free version: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend to keep the cake soft and delicious.
Citrus twist: Add lemon or orange zest to the batter for a bright, refreshing note.
Chocolate almond: Fold in chocolate chips for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Honey glaze: Drizzle a honey-lemon syrup over the cake after baking for extra sweetness and shine.
Vegan adaptation: Use flax eggs and plant-based milk to enjoy the cake dairy- and egg-free without losing moisture.

Why Ina Garten Almond Cake Steals Hearts

How to Make Ina Garten Almond Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven and grease your cake pan to ensure easy release. Gather all ingredients at room temperature to help the batter come together smoothly and bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together almond meal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of leavening agents and a consistent cake texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. This process introduces air, crucial for a light and tender crumb.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Extract

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in almond extract for that signature flavor boost.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternately add the dry ingredient mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix gently to avoid overworking the batter, which helps maintain tenderness.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smooth the surface, and sprinkle with flaked almonds if using. Bake until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan briefly before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips for Making Ina Garten Almond Cake

Room temperature ingredients: Helps create a uniform batter that bakes evenly.
Use fresh almond meal: For the most intense flavor and moist texture.
Don’t overmix: Combining ingredients gently avoids a tough cake crumb.
Check your oven temperature: An oven thermometer ensures accurate baking times.
Flaked almonds optional: Adds texture and beautiful visual appeal but isn’t required.

How to Serve Ina Garten Almond Cake

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can elevate the cake, while fresh berries add a vibrant, juicy contrast to the nutty tones.

Side Dishes

Pairing this cake with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a dollop of lemon curd enhances its richness and adds an exciting flavor dimension.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake into elegant wedges and present on a rustic wooden board, or layer it with cream and fresh fruits for a stunning trifle-style dessert at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Ina Garten Almond Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness and moisture.

Freezing

Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a low oven to refresh the cake’s softness before serving.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of almond meal?

Regular flour will change the texture and flavor, resulting in a less moist and nutty cake; almond meal is essential to achieve the signature richness of Ina Garten Almond Cake.

Is this cake gluten-free?

The classic version is not gluten-free due to the use of all-purpose flour, but you can use a gluten-free flour blend to adapt the recipe while maintaining great results.

Can I substitute the butter with oil?

Butter adds richness and flavor that oil doesn’t replicate, so it’s best to stick with butter, but a mild oil can be used in a pinch though flavor and texture may vary.

How long does the cake last?

When stored properly at room temperature, the cake stays fresh for about three days, making it perfect for a weekend dessert or party treat.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, by swapping out butter for a dairy-free alternative and using a plant-based milk instead of buttermilk, you can make a delicious dairy-free version of Ina Garten Almond Cake.

Final Thoughts

Ina Garten Almond Cake is truly one of those special desserts that feels like a warm hug in cake form. Its simplicity, combined with that unforgettable nutty flavor and moist texture, makes it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite cake to share with friends and family.

Ina Garten Almond Cake

Print Recipe

Ina Garten Almond Cake is a rich, moist, and tender dessert with a delicate almond flavor and buttery crumb. Featuring almond meal, buttermilk, and a hint of almond extract, this elegant cake is perfect for any occasion, from brunch to tea parties. It offers a simple yet sophisticated taste with a golden crust and optional crunchy flaked almonds on top.

Author: Mary
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free flour is used)

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

1 1/2 cups almond meal
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for gluten-free version)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 cup buttermilk

Optional Toppings

1/4 cup flaked almonds

Instructions

Prepare Your Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to ensure a smooth batter and even baking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond meal, all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend), baking powder, and salt until well combined. This ensures even leavening and consistent texture.
Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is pale, fluffy, and lightened in color, introducing air for a tender crumb.
Incorporate Eggs and Extract: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the almond extract for enhanced nutty aroma.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix gently and just until combined to avoid overworking the batter and maintaining the cake’s tender texture.
Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Sprinkle the optional flaked almonds evenly on top if desired. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with honey, paired with berries or cream as desired.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients to create a uniform batter that bakes evenly.
Use fresh almond meal for the most intense almond flavor and moist crumb.
Do not overmix the batter to avoid a tough cake texture.
Check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking.
Flaked almonds on top are optional but add a nice texture and visual appeal.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of cake)
Calories: 280
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Ina Garten, almond cake, moist almond cake, gluten-free almond cake, elegant dessert, almond dessert, almond flour cake