Soft Vanilla Almond Tea Cake

Name: Soft Vanilla Almond Tea Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup almond flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1/4 cup milk

Highlighted under: Home Baking Collection

I truly adore this Soft Vanilla Almond Tea Cake! It’s fluffy, delicate, and enveloped in a sweet almond flavor that transports me to cozy afternoons with a steaming cup of tea. The subtle hints of vanilla elevate the experience, making it irresistible. I love serving it for weekend gatherings or simply enjoying a slice while winding down after a long day. Baking this cake is not only simple but rewarding—the aroma that fills the kitchen is enough to make anyone feel at home.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-16T09:34:36.923Z

Each time I make this cake, I’m reminded of the time I traveled to a quaint little village where everyone seemed to bake in the afternoons. The locals shared their secrets about using almond extract instead of regular vanilla, and I knew I had to try it. The result was this beautiful blend of flavors that dances on your palate. It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for any occasion.

Diving into a slice, you taste the buttery texture alongside the sweet aroma of vanilla. I’ve learned that letting the cake cool completely before serving helps it maintain its structure while enhancing the flavors. Take your time, and you’ll be rewarded with a cake that feels like a warm hug!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Delicate almond flavor that complements the richness of the vanilla
Moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth
Perfect for pairing with your afternoon tea or coffee

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Soft Vanilla Almond Tea Cake plays a crucial role in achieving its light and airy texture. The combination of all-purpose and almond flour not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the cake’s delicate crumb. Almond flour adds moisture and a subtle nuttiness, while all-purpose flour provides structure. If you’re looking to add a nut-free option, you could use oat flour or a gluten-free blend, although it may alter the texture slightly.

Butter is essential for richness and helps to create a tender cake. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar, which helps incorporate air into the mix. If you're in a pinch, I recommend using a combination of melted coconut oil and a bit of yogurt for a dairy-free alternative, although the flavor will differ slightly.

Techniques for Success

Beating the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy—a crucial step—should take about 3-5 minutes. This process incorporates air, leading to a lighter cake. Avoid overmixing after adding the flour mixture, as this can develop gluten and result in a denser texture. Aim for just combined; small lumps are perfectly fine. If you notice that your batter is too thick, a tablespoon of additional milk may help achieve the desired consistency.

When baking, observing the perimeter of the cake is important; the edges should be golden and pulling away slightly from the sides of the pan. Inserting a toothpick in the center should come out clean. If you see wet batter, give it a few more minutes, but keep an eye on it to avoid drying out. Every oven is different, so consider rotating the cake halfway through if your oven tends to have hot spots.

Serving and Storage Tips

For a beautiful presentation, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or drizzle it with a simple almond glaze made of powdered sugar and almond extract. This not only enhances the appearance but adds a slight sweetness that complements the cake wonderfully. If you want to elevate it even further, pairing it with freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can turn a simple dessert into an indulgent treat.

This cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, wrapped tightly to maintain moisture. For longer storage, consider freezing slices. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, defrost at room temperature for a few hours or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back the softness.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start baking:

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup almond flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 cup milk

Make sure to measure accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Extracts

Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture and mix well.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

Enjoy your freshly baked cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add sliced almonds on top before baking or drizzle a glaze made with powdered sugar and almond extract.

Common Troubleshooting

If your cake doesn't rise as expected, check the freshness of your baking powder. Expired baking powder can lead to a dense cake, so always use a fresh supply for the best results. Additionally, ensure not to over-mix the batter, as this can cause the cake to lose its lightness and rise.

Another issue could be uneven baking. If you notice the edges baking faster than the center, it could be beneficial to place an oven thermometer inside to monitor the actual temperature, as some ovens can run hot or cold. Baking at the recommended temperature is key for even cooking.

Flavor Variations

While this cake shines as a vanilla almond treat, consider experimenting with flavors. A pinch of cardamom or nutmeg can bring in a warm spice element without overpowering the almond. Alternatively, incorporating citrus zest, like lemon or orange, will brighten the cake and complement the sweetness beautifully.

If you're a chocolate lover, you might want to add cocoa powder to create a marbled effect. Simply replace 1/4 cup of the all-purpose flour with cocoa powder, and swirl it into half of the batter before pouring it into the cake pan.

Baking Tools for Success

Using an 8-inch round cake pan is ideal for this recipe, as it allows the cake to rise properly without becoming overly thick. If you prefer a different size or shape, adjust the baking time accordingly; a larger, shallower pan may require less time, while a smaller pan may need more.

A handheld or stand mixer works best for the creaming process, but a whisk can be used if you're feeling adventurous and want to develop your arm strength! Just know that the aeration may take longer, and the result might not be as fluffy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use all-purpose flour instead of almond flour?

Yes, but the texture will be different; almond flour adds moisture and flavor.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

It pairs wonderfully with tea, coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream!