Vanilla Almond Layer Cake with Whipped Frosting

Name: Vanilla Almond Layer Cake with Whipped Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract

Highlighted under: Baking Favorites

Indulge in the delightful layers of vanilla almond cake, perfectly complemented by a light and fluffy whipped frosting.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:38:19.052Z

This Vanilla Almond Layer Cake is a perfect treat for any celebration. The combination of almond flavor and whipped frosting creates a delightful dessert that everyone will love!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich almond flavor balanced with sweet vanilla notes
Light and airy whipped frosting that melts in your mouth
Stunning layered presentation that impresses guests

      

The Perfect Celebration Cake

A Vanilla Almond Layer Cake is not just a dessert; it's a centerpiece for any special occasion. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or a simple gathering with friends, this cake is sure to steal the show. Its elegant layers and delightful flavors create a memorable experience for your guests. Each slice is a testament to the care and love put into baking, making it the perfect choice for those who want to impress.

The rich almond flavor combined with the sweetness of vanilla makes this cake a crowd-pleaser. Everyone from children to adults will find joy in its delightful taste. The layers provide a beautiful presentation, making it not only delicious but also visually stunning. When served at a celebration, this cake becomes a conversation starter, inviting compliments and requests for seconds.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your Vanilla Almond Layer Cake turns out perfectly, pay close attention to the preparation of your ingredients. It's crucial to have your butter softened to room temperature for easy creaming with the sugar. This step is vital as it helps create the light and fluffy texture characteristic of a great cake. Additionally, using fresh eggs will enhance the overall flavor and contribute to the cake's rise.

Another important tip is to measure your flour correctly. Too much flour can lead to a dense cake, while too little can cause it to collapse. Using the spoon-and-level method is recommended: spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy. These small details can make a significant difference in the final outcome of your cake.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Whipped Frosting

2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Stir in the almond and vanilla extracts.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Whipped Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped frosting.

Serve the cake chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Common Questions

One common question about baking this Vanilla Almond Layer Cake is whether it can be made ahead of time. Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. Just frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it for the freshest taste and presentation.

Another inquiry often arises regarding the whipped frosting. If you're worried about the frosting deflating, consider stabilizing it by adding a tablespoon of cornstarch or using whipped cream stabilizer. This will help maintain its fluffy texture longer, especially if the cake is to be displayed at room temperature for an extended period.

Variations to Explore

While the Vanilla Almond Layer Cake is delightful as is, there are numerous variations you can explore to suit your taste. For a chocolate twist, consider adding cocoa powder to the cake batter, creating a rich chocolate-almond flavor that pairs beautifully with the whipped frosting. Alternatively, adding lemon zest or almond extract can provide a refreshing citrus note.

You might also want to experiment with different fillings between the layers. A layer of raspberry or strawberry jam can add a fruity contrast to the almond and vanilla flavors. For an extra touch of luxury, a layer of lemon curd can brighten the taste profile, making each bite an exciting experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different flavor extract?

Yes, you can substitute the almond extract with hazelnut or coconut extract for a different flavor profile.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the layers a day in advance and assemble the cake on the day you plan to serve it.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream for the frosting?

You may use whipped topping or a dairy-free cream alternative, but the texture may differ.