Almond Meal Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Oh, coffee cake-such a comforting, cozy treat, right? But here’s the thing: the classic versions often rely heavily on white flour, which can be a bit bland and not the best for everyone’s digestion or diet preferences. Enter almond meal coffee cake, the superstar upgrade that’s about to change your baking game forever. Almond meal brings a beautiful nutty flavor and a moist, tender crumb that flour lovers and gluten-conscious folks alike will swoon over. Plus, it’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and a subtle sweetness all its own.

This coffee cake is perfect for:

• Sunday morning brunches with friends
• A mid-afternoon pick-me-up with your favorite cup of joe
• Anytime you need a slice of comfort that feels a little fancy

So, whether you’re an almond fan or a coffee cake lover-or both-stick around. We’re about to dive into a recipe that’s easy, delicious, and a little bit magical.

Almond Meal Coffee Cake Recipe

Ready to bake a coffee cake that’s buttery, nutty, and just the right amount of sweet? Here’s the recipe laid out in full glory:

Ingredients Needed

To make this delightful almond meal coffee cake, gather these pantry staples and fresh goodies:

• Almond meal (or almond flour) – 2 cups, finely ground for the best texture
• All-purpose flour – 1 cup (can substitute with more almond meal or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version)
• Baking powder – 2 teaspoons, to help our cake rise and become fluffy
• Baking soda – 1/2 teaspoon, for that perfect lift
• Salt – 1/4 teaspoon, to balance the sweetness and enhance flavor
• Ground cinnamon – 1 1/2 teaspoons, for that warm, cozy spice vibe
• Unsalted butter – 1/2 cup (1 stick), softened for richness
• Brown sugar – 3/4 cup, adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor
• Granulated sugar – 1/4 cup, for balanced sweetness
• Eggs – 2 large, the binding heroes
• Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons, because vanilla makes everything better
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt – 1/2 cup, for tangy moisture and tenderness
• Chopped almonds – 1/2 cup, to sprinkle on top or fold in for extra crunch

How To Make Almond Meal Coffee Cake

Here’s where the magic happens-step-by-step, easy-to-follow directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together almond meal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures even distribution of those leaveners and spices.
3. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the brown and granulated sugars until light and fluffy-think creamy and pale, which means air has been incorporated.
4. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract for that fragrant depth.
5. Incorporate sour cream: Mix in the sour cream or Greek yogurt. This addition is the secret to moist, tender crumb.
6. Combine wet and dry: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be gentle here; overmixing can make the cake dense.
7. Pour into the pan: Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan.
8. Add the topping: Sprinkle chopped almonds evenly over the top for a delightful crunch and nutty aroma as it bakes.
9. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature-perfect with a cup of coffee or tea!

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Let’s geek out a bit on why this almond meal coffee cake works so well:

• Almond meal vs. flour: Almond meal is simply finely ground almonds, full of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, unlike white flour which is mostly starch. This means your cake is not only tastier but more nutritious and less likely to cause blood sugar spikes.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents work in tandem-baking powder is double-acting (reacts to moisture and heat), while baking soda reacts immediately with acidic ingredients like sour cream, producing carbon dioxide bubbles that make the cake rise.
• Brown sugar: Contains molasses, which adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like flavor, unlike white sugar that only sweetens.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: The acids here tenderize the gluten and react with baking soda, giving the cake a tender crumb and a slight tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.
• Cinnamon: Beyond flavor, cinnamon has antioxidants and can help regulate blood sugar, making it a cozy and smart spice choice.

Expert Tips

To make your almond meal coffee cake absolutely stellar, here are some insider tips:

• Use fresh almond meal: Almond meal can go rancid because of the oils, so use fresh or store it in the fridge or freezer.
• Don’t overmix: Almond meal lacks gluten, but you still want to avoid a dense cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
• Let it cool before slicing: This helps the cake set properly and avoids crumbly slices.
• Try toasting the almonds: Toast chopped almonds before sprinkling on top to amplify their crunch and flavor.
• Room temperature ingredients: Makes for smoother mixing and better texture.
• Make ahead: This cake keeps well and tastes even better the next day once flavors meld.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Try these delicious twists to switch up your almond meal coffee cake:

• Berry burst: Fold in fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity surprise.
• Chocolate chip: Add 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips for a rich, melty treat.
• Citrus zest: Mix in lemon or orange zest to brighten the flavor profile.
• Maple glaze: Drizzle with a simple maple syrup glaze for extra sweetness and moisture.
• Nut swap: Replace almonds with chopped pecans or walnuts for a different nutty crunch.
• Spiced up: Add nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom alongside cinnamon for a warm spice medley.

Final Words

This almond meal coffee cake is a lovely marriage of simplicity and sophistication. It’s moist, tender, and boasts a warm nuttiness that elevates every bite. Whether you’re baking for yourself, friends, or family, it’s a treat that feels indulgent but wholesome. The almond meal not only improves the flavor and texture but brings a nutritional boost, making it a guilt-free pleasure.

FAQs

What Is Almond Meal?

Almond meal is a fine powder made from ground almonds, often used as a gluten-free substitute for flour in baking recipes. It is typically made from blanched almonds, though some versions include the skin for a coarser texture.

Can I Substitute Almond Meal With Almond Flour In A Coffee Cake Recipe?

Yes, almond flour can be substituted for almond meal in a coffee cake recipe. However, almond flour is finer and may result in a slightly different texture. You might need to adjust the liquid or dry ingredients to achieve the desired consistency.

Is Almond Meal Coffee Cake Gluten-free?

Yes, almond meal coffee cake is naturally gluten-free since almond meal does not contain wheat flour. It is an excellent option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

What Are Some Common Flavor Additions To Almond Meal Coffee Cake?

Common additions include cinnamon, vanilla extract, nutmeg, fresh fruit like blueberries or raspberries, and even citrus zest. Some people also add chopped nuts or a streusel topping for extra texture and flavor.

Can I Make Almond Meal Coffee Cake Dairy-free?

Yes, you can make almond meal coffee cake dairy-free by using plant-based substitutes such as almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk, and replacing butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.

How Do I Make The Texture Of Almond Meal Coffee Cake Fluffier?

To achieve a fluffier texture, you can combine almond meal with another gluten-free flour, such as coconut flour or rice flour, and add a leavening agent like baking soda or baking powder. Make sure to incorporate enough moisture and avoid overmixing.

What Can I Use As A Topping For Almond Meal Coffee Cake?

Popular toppings include a streusel made with butter, sugar, and flour (or gluten-free flour), powdered sugar dusting, or a drizzle of glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Fresh fruit or whipped cream can also make for great garnishes.

How Long Does Almond Meal Coffee Cake Last?

Almond meal coffee cake can last up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you’d like to keep it for longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I Use Sweetened Almond Meal In My Coffee Cake Recipe?

It’s generally best to use unsweetened almond meal to control the sweetness of the cake. Using sweetened almond meal can result in a cake that is too sweet, so you may need to adjust the sugar in the recipe if you opt for sweetened almond meal.

Can I Add Protein Powder To Almond Meal Coffee Cake For An Extra Boost?

Yes, adding protein powder to almond meal coffee cake is possible. You can substitute a portion of the almond meal with your favorite protein powder, but be mindful of the texture and consistency. You may need to adjust the moisture levels to accommodate the added powder.