Traditional Almond Cake

Ingredients

• Sliced almonds (1/4 cup)
• Milk (1/2 cup)
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
• Baking powder (2 teaspoons)
• All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups)
• Almond extract (1 teaspoon)
• Eggs (3)
• Granulated sugar (1 cup)
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch cake pan and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the almond extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and egg mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and evenly sprinkle the sliced almonds on top.
7. Bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. If the cake is browning too quickly, you can cover it with foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will ensure the cake doesn't become too moist and sticky from condensation.