Almond Flour Cake

This light and fluffy almond flour cake is flavored simply with almond extract and orange zest. Whipped egg whites give this gluten-free cake a light texture.

Nutrition Notes

Is This Recipe Vegan?

No; this recipe is not vegan because it contains eggs, but it is vegetarian.

Is Almond Flour Healthier than All-Purpose Flour?

Compared to all-purpose flour, almond flour is loaded with nutrients, including heart-healthy fats, protein and fiber. It's also lower in carbs than all-purpose flour, so it can be a good replacement in some recipes for those who are reducing their intake of carbohydrates or looking for a gluten-free alternative.

Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes, all of the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free.

Tips from the Test Kitchen

What Is Almond Flour?

Almond flour is a finely ground powder made from blanched almonds. It's made by blanching whole almonds, removing their skins and grinding them into a fine-textured powder. It has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor and is commonly used in gluten-free baked goods.

I Don't Have Almond Extract. Can I Use Vanilla Extract Instead?

Yes, you can use up to 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Almond extract has a stronger, more concentrated flavor than vanilla extract, which means that you can use twice as much vanilla extract as a substitute.

What to Serve with Almond Flour Cake

Serve with fresh seasonal fruit, such as cherries, strawberries or peaches, and whipped cream. Try topping it with homemade Bourbon Whipped Cream or Coconut Whipped Cream for a dairy-free option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Almond Meal as a Substitute?

No, we don't recommend using almond meal as a substitute for almond flour in this recipe. Almond meal is made by grinding whole almonds with their skins. It has a coarser texture and contains small brown flecks of almond skin. The coarser grain is heavier than almond flour, and using it in this recipe may result in a denser cake.