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Ina Garten Almond Cake

Ina Garten Almond Cake
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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.

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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

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

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/ina-garten-almond-cake/