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 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

Indulge in the delightful layers of Vanilla Almond Layer Cake, enhanced with a light and airy whipped frosting that complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:53:19.072Z

This Vanilla Almond Layer Cake is a celebration of flavor and texture. With its moist cake layers and fluffy whipped frosting, it's perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delicate almond flavor enhances the traditional vanilla cake
Light and fluffy whipped frosting that balances sweetness
Beautiful layers that make for an impressive presentation

      

The Perfect Occasion for Vanilla Almond Layer Cake

Vanilla Almond Layer Cake is an exquisite dessert that fits perfectly for any occasion. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or simply hosting a tea party, this cake adds a touch of elegance to your gathering. The combination of rich vanilla and subtle almond flavors creates a delightful taste that appeals to a wide range of palates.

This cake also makes a fantastic centerpiece for holiday celebrations. Its beautiful layers and whipped frosting can capture the spirit of any festive gathering, making it a memorable addition to your dessert table. Pair it with seasonal fruits or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve the best results with your Vanilla Almond Layer Cake, ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin. This will help them incorporate more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and a lighter cake. Additionally, properly measure your flour by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife to avoid a dense texture.

When it comes to frosting, patience is key. Beat your heavy cream until soft peaks form, but be cautious not to overbeat, as this can lead to a grainy texture. If you find that your whipped frosting isn't holding its shape, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch to stabilize it, ensuring your cake looks as good as it tastes.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

To keep your Vanilla Almond Layer Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving, as the flavors are best enjoyed at a slightly warmer temperature.

For an added touch, serve each slice with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of toasted almond slivers. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful crunch, creating a lovely contrast to the soft, airy texture of the cake and frosting.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious cake:

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

For the Whipped Frosting

1 cup heavy cream
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect Vanilla Almond Layer Cake:

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk, until just combined.

Bake the Cake Layers

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

Make the Whipped Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer on medium speed. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and almond extracts. Continue beating until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers 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. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped frosting.

Decorate as desired, and enjoy your delicious Vanilla Almond Layer Cake!

Variations and Add-Ins

While this Vanilla Almond Layer Cake is delicious as is, feel free to experiment by adding your favorite flavors. Consider folding in some mini chocolate chips or fresh berries into the batter for a fruity twist. You can also swap out the almond extract for other extracts, such as coconut or hazelnut, to create a unique flavor profile.

For a more festive cake, think about layering some fruit preserves or a thin layer of lemon curd between the cake layers. This not only adds moisture but also a refreshing zing that pairs beautifully with the vanilla and almond flavors. Get creative and make this cake your own!

Healthier Alternatives

If you're looking to lighten up this Vanilla Almond Layer Cake, consider substituting some of the ingredients with healthier alternatives. You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber, or replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

For a dairy-free option, substitute almond milk and coconut cream for the milk and heavy cream. These alternatives can provide a subtle nutty flavor that complements the almond extract beautifully. With these substitutions, you can enjoy a lighter version of this delicious cake without sacrificing taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Frost just before serving.

→ Can I use other extracts instead of almond?

Absolutely! You can substitute with hazelnut or coconut extract for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.