Vanilla Almond Layer Cake with Whipped Frosting

Name: Vanilla Almond Layer Cake with Whipped Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 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; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats & Homemade Desserts

Indulge in the delightful layers of our Vanilla Almond Layer Cake topped with luscious whipped frosting. Perfect for any celebration or a sweet treat at home.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-16T18:00:19.877Z

This Vanilla Almond Layer Cake is a classic dessert that combines the rich flavor of vanilla with the subtle nuttiness of almond. Each layer is moist and fluffy, making it a perfect choice for birthdays, weddings, or any special occasion.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla and almond flavor combination
Fluffy whipped frosting that complements the cake perfectly
A stunning centerpiece for any dessert table

      

The Perfect Celebration Cake

When it comes to celebrations, a cake can truly elevate the occasion. Our Vanilla Almond Layer Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds; it also serves as a stunning visual centerpiece. The soft, delicate layers of cake, combined with the fluffy whipped frosting, create a dessert that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether it's a birthday, an anniversary, or just a family gathering, this cake is sure to impress your guests.

The rich combination of vanilla and almond flavors offers a unique twist on the classic layer cake. Each bite is a harmonious blend of sweetness and nuttiness, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate gourmet desserts. Serve it at your next party, and watch as everyone comes back for seconds!

Tips for Baking Success

Baking a cake can sometimes feel intimidating, but with a few tips, you can achieve perfect results every time. First, ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps create a smooth batter that rises beautifully in the oven. Also, don't skip the step of greasing your cake pans—this prevents the cakes from sticking and ensures easy removal after baking.

Another important tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined helps keep the cake light and fluffy. Finally, always test for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Following these simple steps will set you on the path to baking success!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

After you've baked and frosted your Vanilla Almond Layer Cake, you may find yourself with leftovers. Store any uneaten cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to prepare the cake in advance, you can bake the layers a day or two ahead of time and store them wrapped in plastic wrap until you're ready to frost and serve.

For serving, consider pairing your cake with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch. The contrast of the cold ice cream against the fluffy cake adds a delightful experience that your guests will love. Whether enjoyed on its own or dressed up with accompaniments, this cake is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious cake:

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
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Whipped Frosting

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

Ensure you have all the ingredients measured and ready to go before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake and assemble your cake:

Prepare the Cake Batter

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

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between two greased 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 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 wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Whipped Frosting

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

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of whipped frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake as desired. Decorate with additional almonds or sprinkles if desired.

Slice and enjoy your delicious Vanilla Almond Layer Cake!

Flavor Variations

While the Vanilla Almond Layer Cake is delicious as is, feel free to get creative with flavors! You can swap out the almond extract for a different nut flavor, like hazelnut or pistachio, to give the cake a unique twist. Adding a layer of fruit preserves between the cake layers can also enhance the flavor profile, providing a fresh burst of taste with every bite.

For chocoholics, consider incorporating cocoa powder into the cake batter for a chocolate-almond version. Simply replace a portion of the flour with cocoa powder to achieve a rich chocolate flavor while maintaining the almond essence. Experimenting with different flavors can make this cake a versatile addition to your dessert repertoire.

Serving Sizes and Portions

This Vanilla Almond Layer Cake is perfect for serving a crowd, typically yielding 10 to 12 slices, depending on how generously you cut the portions. For smaller gatherings, consider cutting the cake into smaller squares or triangles, which allows for more guests to enjoy a taste without overwhelming portion sizes.

If you're serving a large group, pair the cake with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. This combination not only complements the flavors of the cake but also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere for your guests. Remember, presentation matters, so consider serving the cake on a beautiful cake stand to make it the star of your dessert table!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with almond flour, but it may affect the texture.

→ How should I store the cake?

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

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

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

You can use coconut cream or a store-bought whipped topping as alternatives.