Strawberry Almond Cake Recipe

Introduction

Strawberry Almond Cake is a delightful, moist dessert that combines the bright, fruity sweetness of fresh strawberries with the rich, nutty flavor of almonds. This cake is the perfect way to showcase seasonal strawberries, bringing out their natural sweetness while adding depth with the almond flavor. With its tender crumb and fragrant aroma, this cake is an irresistible treat for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, a casual afternoon tea, or a special gathering with friends and family.

The balance between the light almond flavor and the juicy, vibrant strawberries makes this cake both flavorful and visually stunning. A delicate almond flour base, paired with a touch of almond extract, is complemented by fresh strawberries, creating a truly heavenly combination. Whether served plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or topped with whipped cream or a dollop of vanilla ice cream, this cake will surely impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy it.

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Almond Cake

• Perfect Combination of Flavors: The pairing of strawberries and almonds brings out the best of both ingredients. The sweet, juicy strawberries balance perfectly with the nutty, slightly savory taste of almonds, making each bite full of flavor.
• Moist and Tender Texture: The almond flour gives the cake a tender, moist texture that’s light yet rich, while the strawberries add extra juiciness and sweetness. It’s a cake that melts in your mouth with every forkful.
• Visually Beautiful: The vibrant red of the strawberries and the golden brown hue of the cake create a beautiful presentation. It’s a cake that will be the star of any dessert table.
• Simple Ingredients: This cake requires just a handful of pantry staples, such as flour, butter, and sugar, along with the unique combination of almond flour and fresh strawberries. The straightforward ingredients make it easy to prepare.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting a gathering, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea, Strawberry Almond Cake is a perfect treat that will elevate any moment.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 10-12 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 250-300 calories per slice, depending on portion size.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 12-15g
• Carbohydrates: 32-35g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 18-20g

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Almond Cake:

• 1 cup (240g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 tablespoons sugar (for sprinkling on top)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon sliced almonds (for garnish)

Special Equipment

While making Strawberry Almond Cake doesn’t require highly specialized tools, a few pieces of equipment will help ensure smooth preparation and better results:

1. Electric Mixer: An electric mixer is useful for creaming the butter and sugar together, ensuring that the texture is light and airy. It can also help with mixing the eggs and other ingredients without overworking the batter.
2. Cake Pan: A round 9-inch cake pan works best for this recipe, allowing the cake to bake evenly. Be sure to grease the pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for the success of this cake, so be sure to use proper measuring cups and spoons.
4. Mixing Bowls: A few large mixing bowls are necessary to separate dry ingredients from wet ingredients and ensure proper mixing without lumps.
5. Rubber Spatula: A rubber spatula is useful for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl and folding the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients to ensure an even mixture.
6. Wire Rack: Cooling the cake on a wire rack after baking helps prevent moisture from accumulating at the bottom, ensuring the cake stays fluffy and light.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan, or line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick to the pan and comes out cleanly after baking.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed. Beat for about 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential for creating the right texture in the cake, as it incorporates air into the butter and sugar mixture.

3. Add the Eggs and Extracts

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps ensure that the eggs are fully incorporated into the mixture. Then, mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract. These extracts will infuse the batter with the signature flavors of the cake—vanilla for sweetness and almond for a rich, nutty depth.

4. Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt. The almond flour will give the cake its nutty flavor and tender crumb, while the baking powder helps the cake rise. Whisking the dry ingredients together ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

5. Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start by adding a third of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, then add half of the milk. Repeat this process, finishing with the remaining dry ingredients. Mix gently with a spatula or the electric mixer on low speed to prevent overmixing. Overmixing can result in a dense cake, so be careful to just combine the ingredients.

6. Add the Strawberries

Gently fold the sliced strawberries into the batter. Be careful not to overmix, as you don’t want to break up the strawberries too much. The strawberries will add moisture to the cake and provide sweet, juicy pockets throughout.

7. Transfer to the Cake Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top of the batter. Sprinkle the top with the additional 2 tablespoons of sugar. This will create a slightly caramelized, golden crust on the top of the cake as it bakes.

8. Bake the Cake

Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top, and it will have a slight spring when gently pressed in the center. If you notice the cake is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil and continue baking until it’s fully cooked through.

9. Cool the Cake

Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, remove the cake from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the cake firm up and prevents it from becoming soggy at the bottom.

10. Garnish and Serve

Once the cake has cooled, you can garnish it with optional sliced almonds for a little extra texture and visual appeal. You can also dust the cake with powdered sugar for a simple and elegant touch. Serve the cake as is, or add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Almond Cake

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are essential for the best flavor and texture in this cake. If fresh strawberries aren’t available, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for the best texture.
• Test for Doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking the cake for doneness at around 40 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready to be removed from the oven.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, ensure that your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This will help the ingredients blend more easily and result in a smoother batter.

Variations of Strawberry Almond Cake

• Strawberry Almond Layer Cake: For an even more impressive dessert, bake two rounds of this cake and stack them to create a layer cake. Add a layer of whipped cream or almond frosting between the layers for extra flavor and texture.
• Gluten-Free Strawberry Almond Cake: If you need a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The almond flour already provides some structure and flavor, making it an excellent base for gluten-free baking.
• Strawberry Almond Bundt Cake: Bake the batter in a Bundt pan for a more dramatic presentation. Be sure to grease the pan well to avoid sticking, and drizzle with a simple glaze for extra sweetness.
• Chocolate Strawberry Almond Cake: Add a tablespoon or two of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolatey twist. The chocolate will pair beautifully with the strawberries and almonds.

Storage and Shelf Life

Strawberry Almond Cake is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers for later enjoyment. Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.

For longer storage, freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. The cake will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Strawberry Almond Cake

Pair this delicious dessert with beverages and treats that complement its light, fruity flavor:

• Tea or Coffee: A light tea such as Earl Grey or chamomile, or a mild coffee, pairs wonderfully with the strawberry almond cake.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with berries or citrus fruits provides a nice contrast to the richness of the cake.
• Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: Serve the cake with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert pairing.
• Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: If you want to go all out, serve the cake with chocolate-dipped strawberries for a decadent finish.

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Conclusion

Strawberry Almond Cake is a delightful and elegant dessert that brings together the sweet, juicy strawberries with the nutty richness of almonds. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a homemade treat, this cake is sure to impress with its tender crumb, delicious flavor, and beautiful presentation. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a cake anyone can make and enjoy. Try it today, and let the flavors of fresh strawberries and almonds take your taste buds on a journey!