Amandine Cake Recipe

If you are searching for a dessert that combines nutty richness with an irresistible chocolate finish, the Amandine Cake is your new best friend. This cake perfectly balances the delicate flavors of almond flour and extracts with a delectably smooth chocolate almond glaze that crowns each slice with elegance. Every bite delivers a soft texture infused with warm vanilla and almond aromas, making it a truly memorable treat. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just because, the Amandine Cake offers a deliciously simple yet sophisticated option that feels both comforting and special.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in how straightforward the ingredients are, each playing an essential role in creating the cake’s moist crumb, nutty depth, and luxurious glaze. From the creamy butter and rich almond flour to the aromatic extracts, these staples come together to form a cake that tastes like a little celebration in every slice.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure for the cake’s tender crumb without heaviness.
• Almond flour: Adds a naturally sweet, nutty flavor and moist texture.
• Sugar: Sweetens and helps create that golden crust on the cake’s surface.
• Unsalted butter: Brings richness and a silky mouthfeel when softened and creamed.
• Milk: Keeps the batter smooth and ensures a tender crumb.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients together and add lightness when whipped into the batter.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and subtle sweetness in every bite.
• Almond extract: Intensifies the almond undertone for authentic flavor.
• Baking powder: Leavens to give the cake a gentle rise and fluffy texture.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors, balancing sweetness and depth.
• Heavy cream: Forms the base of the glossy chocolate almond glaze.
• Dark chocolate: Adds richness and a bittersweet contrast to the almond notes.
• Butter (for glaze): Creates a shiny finish and smooth texture in the ganache.
• Toasted almond flakes: Provide a delightful crunch and beautiful garnish.

How to Make Amandine Cake

Step 1: Preparing your pan and oven

Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). While it warms, line a round cake pan with parchment paper and lightly butter it. This preparation ensures your Amandine Cake will come out cleanly and with perfectly smooth sides, ready for glazing.

Step 2: Creaming butter and sugar

In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Whisk them together until the mixture becomes pale, creamy, and filled with air. This step is key for a light texture—don’t rush it, as these little air bubbles will make your cake wonderfully tender.

Step 3: Adding eggs and extracts

Add the eggs one at a time, whisking each fully into the batter before adding the next. This creates a silky, smooth mixture. Then, stir in the vanilla and almond extracts — they will infuse the batter with a signature nutty sweetness that defines the Amandine Cake.

Step 4: Combining dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. These dry ingredients will provide structure and flavor layers to your cake. Folding them gently into the wet mixture helps keep the batter light and airy.

Step 5: Mixing flour and milk

Alternate folding the dry ingredients and the milk into the batter. This careful technique prevents overmixing, preserving the cake’s delicate crumb and ensuring a moist, soft finish. Your batter should look thick, fragrant, and nutty.

Step 6: Baking the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top gently with a spatula. Bake for about 30–35 minutes, or until the cake turns golden on top and a skewer comes out clean. Let the cake rest until it’s cool enough to handle, perfect timing to prepare that luscious glaze.

Step 7: Making the chocolate almond glaze

Warm the heavy cream in a small pot until it starts to steam, then pour it over the chopped dark chocolate. After letting it sit for a couple of minutes, stir gently until you form a smooth ganache. Stir in butter for that extra glossy finish. When the cake is completely cool, pour the glaze over the top, letting it drip elegantly down the sides.

Step 8: Finishing touches

Scatter toasted almond flakes over the glaze while it’s still wet for a crunchy, nutty contrast. Allow the glaze to set before slicing to enjoy the smooth almond-rich cake with a silky chocolate finish at its best.

How to Serve Amandine Cake

Garnishes

The toasted almond flakes aren’t just beautiful—they add a satisfying crunch that complements the cake’s moist crumb perfectly. For an extra indulgent touch, a dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh berries can brighten the presentation and balance the richness.

Side Dishes

Amandine Cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to contrast the nutty flavors with creamy sweetness. Fresh fruit, like raspberries or sliced pears, can add a refreshing burst that elevates each bite.

Creative Ways to Present Amandine Cake

Slice the Amandine Cake into elegant wedges and serve on delicate dessert plates, drizzled with a little extra ganache or a raspberry coulis for a pop of color. For gatherings, individual portions can be topped with a sprig of mint or a single almond flake to make each serving look stunning and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Amandine Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain its soft texture. After that, it’s best kept in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly to prevent drying out, where it will last up to five days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake without the glaze wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to two months. Thaw it gently in the refrigerator before adding the glaze for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To enjoy the cake warm, lightly warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven, being careful not to melt the glaze too much. Warming enhances the almond aroma and softens the cake for a cozy treat.

FAQs

Can I use almond meal instead of almond flour for the Amandine Cake?

Yes, almond meal can be used, but almond flour is finer and results in a softer cake texture. If you use almond meal, expect a slightly denser bite with more texture.

Is it necessary to use both vanilla and almond extracts?

Both extracts work together to create a complex aroma and deepen the almond flavor. If you only have one, using almond extract alone will still give the cake its signature taste.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make the Amandine Cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum, ensuring the texture remains light and tender.

How do I know when the Amandine Cake is perfectly baked?

The cake is done when its top turns a beautiful golden color and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.

What can I substitute for dark chocolate in the glaze?

If you prefer, you can use semi-sweet chocolate or even milk chocolate for a sweeter glaze. Keep in mind this will slightly change the ganache’s depth and bitterness.

Final Thoughts

The Amandine Cake is truly a treat that feels like a warm hug from the oven, marrying the delicate sweetness of almonds with the luxuriousness of chocolate. It is a recipe I find myself returning to time and again, knowing it never disappoints. If you’re ready to bake something special that impresses both in flavor and presentation, this cake is waiting for you to dive in and savor every delightful bite.