Apple Almond Cake

Why you'll love this apple almond cake recipe

This isn't just another apple cake. It's one that truly stands out. Here's why it's going to become one of your favorites:

Beautiful presentation. With apples fanned on top, a sprinkle of almonds, and a dusting of powdered sugar, it looks as good as it tastes.

Over-the-top almond flavor. With almond flour, almond paste, sliced almonds, and a touch of almond extract, this cake has a deep, nutty flavor that makes it unique.

Simple ingredients. No hard-to-find items, just fresh apples and pantry staples.

Made from scratch. Unlike boxed mixes with mystery ingredients, this cake is fully homemade.

Perfect for fall. Apple season is the best time to bake this cake, and it's a great way to highlight crisp, fresh apples.

Gluten-free. Using almond flour makes this cake naturally gluten-free, so it's a dessert option that works for everyone.

Ingredients and their part in the cake

This apple almond cake is simple but flavorful and each ingredient plays a role in the final texture and taste. Here's what you'll need:

• Honeycrisp apples - Sweet and crisp, they hold their shape beautifully and add fruity freshness.
• Almond flour - Light, nutty, and naturally gluten-free, it gives the cake a moist and tender crumb.
• Almond paste - Intensifies the almond flavor and adds richness.
• Almond extract - A little goes a long way in boosting the nutty notes.
• Sliced almonds - Sprinkled on top for crunch and decoration.
• Butter - Adds moisture and richness to the cake batter.
• Sugar - Sweetens the cake and balances the tartness of the apples.
• Eggs - Bind the batter and create structure.
• Vanilla extract - Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors.
• Baking powder - Helps the cake rise.
• Salt - Enhances all the flavors.
• Coarse sugar - A sprinkle on top gives sparkle and a light crunch.
• Powdered sugar - A finishing touch for garnish.

Note: Be sure to use almond flour, not almond meal. Almond meal is coarser, darker, and made with skins, which can give a slightly bitter taste.

Best apples for this cake

When making this cake, the type of apple you choose can change the flavor and texture in subtle but delicious ways. Here are some of the best options and what each brings to the cake:

• Honeycrisp - Sweet, juicy, and crisp, they hold up well in baking and add a refreshing bite.
• Granny Smith - Firm and tart, they balance the sweetness of the cake with bright flavor.
• Fuji - Extra sweet and crisp, they add moisture and a caramel-like sweetness.
• Braeburn - Balanced sweet-tart flavor with a firm texture that bakes beautifully.
• Gala - Mildly sweet and softer, blending gently into the cake for a more subtle apple presence.
• Combination of apples - Using a mix of sweet, tart, and crisp apples creates layers of flavor and texture for a more complex cake.

How to make apple and almond cake

Making this almond cake with apples is simple, and the presentation is stunning. Here's how to put it together:

1. Place room temperature butter, almond paste, and sugar in a large mixing bowl of an electric mixer.
2. Beat until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes, then add eggs, one at a time, and extracts. Mix well.
3. Combine almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Fold into batter until just blended.
5. Add in diced apples.
6. Stir to distribute evenly.

7. Pour batter into prepared springform or cake pan. Smooth top.
8. Decorate with halved apple slices.
9. Sprinkle with sliced almonds and coarse sugar.
10. Bake at 350°F for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick in the center comes out clean.

11. Let cool 15 minutes in pan then run knife around sides of pan and remove springform pan's outer rim. Invert onto wire rack, remove parchment paper, then turn back upright again onto another wire rack. If baking in cake pan, run knife around outer edge then follow above instructions for inverting and removing parchment paper.

Allow to cool completely then sprinkle with powdered sugar.

The flavor is best when this apple almond cake is served at room temperature. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or go all out and top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect indulgent fall treat.

Recipe tips for success

Baking with almond flour and apples is simple, but a few little tricks can make all the difference. These tips will help you get the best texture, flavor, and presentation from your apple almond cake every time.

• Don't peel the apples. The skin adds color, texture, and extra nutrients.
• Use room temperature butter and eggs. This helps everything mix more smoothly.
• Beat the almond paste well. It can be dense, so take the time to fully incorporate it into the butter and sugar.
• Don't overmix the batter. Stir just until combined for a tender crumb.
• Check early for doneness. Almond flour bakes differently than wheat flour, so check at 45 minutes and add time if needed.
• Cool before slicing. The cake needs a little time to firm up so slices hold together.

Recipe variations to make it your own

One of the best things about this apple almond cake is how easy it is to adapt. With just a few tweaks, you can give it a new flavor profile or a fun twist to suit the season or occasion.

• Pears. Swap apples with ripe pears for a delicate twist.
• Spiced version. Add a teaspoon of cinnamon, cardamom, or ginger to the batter.
• Coffee cake style. Skip the sliced almond topping and instead make a streusel topping combining ¼ cup almond flour, 3 tablespoons chopped almonds, 3 tablespoons brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons melted butter.

What to serve with this almond apple cake

This cake pairs beautifully with both drinks and toppings. Try serving it with:

• Coffee or tea - A warm beverage balances the nutty sweetness.
• Sparkling Apple Cider Sangria - Refreshing and festive.
• Spiked Hot Apple Cider - Perfect for chilly nights.
• Vanilla ice cream - A scoop adds a creamy contrast.
• Whipped cream - Light and fluffy with just the right sweetness.

How to store and freeze the cake

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

To freeze, wrap cooled slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

More apple dessert recipes

Love baking with apples? Here are more delicious ideas:

• Apple Bundt Cake - A simple, cozy cake made with fresh apples.
• Apple Dumplings - A classic, comforting dessert.
• Apple Galette - A rustic pastry that looks fancy but is easy to make.
• Caramel Apple Crumble Pie - A perfect mix of pie and crisp.
• Caramel Apple Cupcakes - Fun, portable, and festive.
• French Apple Pie - Sweet, spiced, and perfect for holidays.

Find lots of easy cake recipes right here on 2CM!