Almond Croissant Cake Recipe
A delightful Almond Croissant Cake that combines the nutty flavor of finely chopped almonds with a light, fluffy texture created by whipped cream and almond extract. This elegant cake is topped with sliced almonds and lightly dusted with powdered sugar, perfect for a cozy brunch or a sophisticated dessert.
- Author: Felix
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup whole raw almonds (skin-on or blanched)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1 1/2 cups (minus 1 Tbsp) all purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tsp almond extract
Topping
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter and flour a 9-inch springform pan to prevent sticking and ensure an easy release.
- Chop Almonds: Finely chop the whole raw almonds using a food processor by pulsing until they are finely ground but not turned into almond meal. Alternatively, finely chop with a knife, ensuring very small pieces. Set aside.
- Whip Cream: In a large bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until it forms firm peaks. Refrigerate to keep it cool and stable for folding later.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Beat Eggs and Sugar: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, whisk the eggs, sugar, and almond extract together until the mixture becomes very light and fluffy, which incorporates air and contributes to the cake’s texture.
- Combine Batter: Gently fold the dry flour mixture and the finely chopped almonds into the egg mixture until just combined.
- Fold Whipped Cream: Carefully fold the whipped cream into the batter until no streaks remain, being gentle to preserve the airiness for a light texture.
- Prepare to Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan, spreading evenly. Scatter the sliced almonds on top, then sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of sugar to create a sweet, crunchy topping.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, until the cake is puffed and golden on top. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with moist crumbs but no wet batter. Baking time can vary based on oven differences, so monitor closely near the end.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then release the springform pan ring. Transfer the cake to a stand or serving plate and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Storage: The cake can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Store it on the counter under a cake dome or wrapped in foil for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for longer preservation. Slice only when ready to serve to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Using skin-on almonds adds a slightly more robust almond flavor and texture, but blanched almonds will work as well.
- Ensure the heavy cream is very cold before whipping to achieve firm peaks.
- Be gentle when folding the whipped cream into the batter to keep the cake light and airy.
- Baking times may vary depending on your oven; monitor the cake closely after 45 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Do not slice the cake until ready to serve to maintain moistness and freshness.
- The cake stores well at room temperature under a cake dome for up to 3 days and can be frozen for extended storage.
Keywords: Almond Croissant Cake, almond cake, baked almond dessert, nutty cake, whipped cream cake