White Almond Sheet Cake

This Almond Sheet Cake is a soft, buttery, and moist dessert infused with the delicate flavor of almond extract. Topped with a smooth and creamy almond icing, this cake is perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or simply indulging in a delicious homemade treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Buttery – Made with sour cream for a tender crumb.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and a straightforward baking process.
• Almond Lovers’ Delight – A rich almond flavor in both the cake and icing.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for birthdays, holidays, or everyday treats.
• Sheet Cake Simplicity – No layering or complex decorating required.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cake:

• 1 cup butter
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups flour
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon almond extract

Icing:

• ½ cup butter
• ¼ cup milk
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon almond extract

Directions

For the Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Prepare the Batter – In a saucepan, bring butter and water to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder until well combined.
3. Add Wet Ingredients – Mix in the sour cream, eggs, and almond extract until smooth.
4. Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool slightly before icing.

For the Icing:

1. Melt Butter – In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in milk and bring just to a gentle simmer.
2. Mix in Sugar and Flavoring – Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and almond extract until smooth.
3. Ice the Cake – Pour the warm icing over the slightly cooled cake, spreading evenly. Allow to set before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle slivered almonds over the icing for extra texture.
• Citrus Twist – Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a fresh flavor boost.
• Chocolate Drizzle – Drizzle melted chocolate over the icing for added richness.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free flour blend for a wheat-free version.
• Double the Almond – Add extra almond extract or a touch of amaretto for deeper almond flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage – Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing – Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating – Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

FAQs

Can I use vanilla extract instead of almond extract?

Yes, but it will change the flavor profile. Almond extract gives this cake its signature taste.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Bake and ice the cake a day in advance for the best flavor.

Can I make cupcakes instead of a sheet cake?

Yes! Bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

What type of flour works best for this recipe?

All-purpose flour works best, but you can use cake flour for an even lighter texture.

How do I prevent my icing from being too thick?

If the icing thickens too much, add a tablespoon of warm milk and whisk until smooth.

Can I add fruit to this cake?

Yes, adding fresh raspberries or sliced peaches on top before serving pairs beautifully with almond flavor.

What can I serve with this cake?

A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes a perfect pairing.

Is this cake overly sweet?

The cake has a balanced sweetness, but you can reduce the sugar slightly if preferred.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is recommended for the best flavor, but margarine can be used as a substitute.

Can I add food coloring to the icing?

Yes! A drop of pink or blue food coloring can add a fun visual touch.

Conclusion

This Almond Sheet Cake is a simple yet elegant dessert that’s sure to impress. With its soft, buttery texture and rich almond flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy a slice of sweet, nutty perfection!

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