Almond Paste Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Hey there, fellow food lover! If you’re anything like me, mornings can be a sacred ritual, and what better way to start the day than with a slice of something warm, comforting, and utterly irresistible? Enter the Almond Paste Coffee Cake – a tender, buttery, and delightfully nutty cake that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. This isn’t just any coffee cake; it’s a masterpiece infused with the rich, creamy essence of almond paste, bringing a unique depth of flavor that’s both subtle and sophisticated.

Think of almond paste as the secret weapon of baking – a luscious blend of finely ground almonds and sugar that melts into the cake, creating moist layers and a wonderfully sweet, nutty aroma that fills your kitchen. This recipe is not just about taste; it’s about texture, aroma, and that warm feeling of cozy indulgence. Ready to wow your family, friends, or just treat yourself? Let’s jump right in!

Almond Paste Coffee Cake Recipe

This coffee cake is the perfect balance of crumbly, moist, and richly flavored. It boasts a tender crumb, a golden crust, and pockets of almond paste that keep every bite exciting. Whether you’re baking for a casual brunch, a holiday treat, or simply because the craving hits, this recipe is a winner.

Here’s what you can expect:

• A buttery cake base with a hint of vanilla
• Sweet and nutty almond paste folded right into the batter
• A crunchy almond streusel topping for that satisfying texture contrast
• A beautiful golden finish that’s almost too pretty to cut (but you won’t be able to resist!)

Ingredients Needed

Alright, let’s talk ingredients – the heroes of this delicious tale. Most of these are pantry staples, but almond paste might be your star ingredient that elevates this cake beyond ordinary.

Cake Base

• Almond paste (about 7 oz) – finely chopped or grated for easy mixing
• All-purpose flour (2 cups) – the structure of our cake
• Granulated sugar (3/4 cup) – for sweetness without overpowering
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup or 1 stick, softened) – richness and moisture
• Eggs (2 large) – the binding agents that give the cake its lift
• Baking powder (1 1/2 tsp) – for that light, airy texture
• Salt (1/4 tsp) – balances the sweetness and enhances flavor
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – aromatic and flavorful magic
• Milk (1/2 cup) – keeps the cake tender and moist

Almond Streusel Topping

• Brown sugar (1/3 cup) – deep, caramel-like sweetness
• Sliced almonds (1/2 cup) – for crunch and extra almond flavor
• Unsalted butter (2 tbsp, melted) – binds the streusel and adds richness
• Ground cinnamon (1/2 tsp) – optional, but highly recommended for warmth

How To Make Almond Paste Coffee Cake

Get ready to roll up your sleeves – this is where the magic happens!

Step 1: Prep Your Oven And Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or a square 8×8-inch baking dish, then lightly flour it or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix The Almond Paste

• Chop or grate your almond paste finely. This helps it incorporate smoothly into the batter without leaving large clumps.

Step 3: Cream Butter And Sugar

• In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy – this usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. This step is key to a tender crumb.

Step 4: Add Eggs And Vanilla

• Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 6: Alternate Dry Ingredients And Milk

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Stir until just combined – don’t overmix or you risk a tough cake!

Step 7: Fold In Almond Paste

• Gently fold in the finely chopped almond paste until evenly distributed.

Step 8: Prepare Streusel Topping

• In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, sliced almonds, melted butter, and cinnamon until crumbly.

Step 9: Assemble And Bake

• Pour the batter into your prepared pan and sprinkle the almond streusel evenly on top.
• Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool And Enjoy

• Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice, serve, and enjoy with your favorite hot beverage!

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Let’s geek out for a moment on why almond paste works its magic in this coffee cake.

• Almond Paste: Made from finely ground almonds and sugar, it adds moisture and fat, which make the cake super tender and rich. Unlike almond extract, which just provides flavor, almond paste contributes texture and a natural sweetness that feels indulgent but balanced.
• Butter: Butter’s fat coats flour proteins, limiting gluten formation – this keeps the cake tender and crumbly, not dense. The creaming of butter and sugar traps air, helping the cake rise.
• Baking Powder: This chemical leavening agent produces carbon dioxide when moistened and heated, which puffs up the cake and makes it light.
• Eggs: They’re the glue and the structure. Eggs provide moisture, fat, and protein, all essential for that perfect crumb.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps dissolve sugar and salt, aiding in an even distribution of ingredients.

Understanding these little ingredient superheroes helps you tweak or troubleshoot your baking adventures with confidence!

Expert Tips

To take your Almond Paste Coffee Cake from good to legendary, here are some pro tips:

• Don’t skip sifting your dry ingredients! This avoids lumps and helps the cake rise evenly.
• Use room temperature eggs and butter for better mixing and texture.
• Grate the almond paste rather than chopping for a smoother integration.
• Watch your oven carefully – all ovens bake differently, so start checking at 35 minutes.
• If you like a crunchier topping, add a handful of coarse sugar or chopped nuts on top before baking.
• Store leftovers properly in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. Warm gently before serving.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here’s how to mix things up:

• Add fresh berries (blueberries or raspberries) into the batter for a juicy surprise.
• Swap almond paste for marzipan if you want an even sweeter, richer twist.
• Use almond extract alongside almond paste for an extra punch of almond flavor.
• Try a drizzle of glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk for a pretty finish.
• Mix in a handful of chocolate chips to pair almond and chocolate perfectly.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that’s suitable for baking.

Final Words

Making Almond Paste Coffee Cake isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about creating an experience – the smell of warm almonds filling your kitchen, the anticipation as it bakes, and the bliss of that first buttery, nutty bite. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a treat-yourself moment, this coffee cake delivers comfort and sophistication in every forkful.

FAQs

What Is Almond Paste And How Is It Different From Marzipan?

Almond paste is a smooth mixture made from ground almonds and sugar, often used in baking to add rich almond flavor and moisture. It differs from marzipan primarily in sugar content and texture; marzipan is sweeter and smoother, typically used for candy or decorations, while almond paste is less sweet and more coarse, ideal for mixing into batters.

Can I Substitute Almond Paste In A Coffee Cake Recipe With Almond Extract Or Other Ingredients?

While almond extract can provide almond flavor, it does not replicate the texture or moisture that almond paste adds to the cake. For best results, use almond paste as specified. Alternatively, a mixture of finely ground almonds and sugar can be used but may alter the texture slightly.

How Do I Incorporate Almond Paste Into The Coffee Cake Batter?

To incorporate almond paste, soften it by cutting into small pieces or warming slightly, then mix it with the wet ingredients until smooth. This helps it blend evenly into the batter, ensuring the cake has a consistent almond flavor and moist texture.

What Type Of Coffee Cake Pairs Well With Almond Paste?

Almond paste works well in moist, tender coffee cakes, especially those with a crumb topping or streusel. Its rich, nutty flavor complements cinnamon, vanilla, and fruit additions like berries or apples, creating a balanced and flavorful dessert.

Is Almond Paste Coffee Cake Gluten-free Or Can It Be Made Gluten-free?

Traditional almond paste coffee cake recipes typically use wheat flour and are not gluten-free. However, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends designed for baking. Ensure that all other ingredients, including almond paste, do not contain gluten additives.

How Should I Store Almond Paste Coffee Cake To Maintain Freshness?

Store the coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Bring to room temperature or warm gently before serving.

Can I Make Almond Paste Coffee Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, almond paste coffee cake can be prepared ahead of time. You can bake it and store it refrigerated for a few days or freeze it to preserve freshness. Thaw completely and reheat gently before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Are There Any Common Variations To Almond Paste Coffee Cake Recipes?

Common variations include adding fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or sliced apples, incorporating different spices such as cinnamon or cardamom, or topping with slivered almonds or a cream cheese glaze to enhance flavor and texture.

Does Almond Paste Coffee Cake Contain Nuts, And Is It Safe For People With Nut Allergies?

Yes, almond paste coffee cake contains almonds and is not safe for those with nut allergies. Almond paste is primarily made from almonds, which are tree nuts, so avoid this recipe if you or your guests have nut allergies.

What Baking Tips Can Help Ensure A Moist And Tender Almond Paste Coffee Cake?

To achieve a moist and tender cake, avoid overmixing the batter once the flour is added, use room temperature ingredients, and bake at the recommended temperature without opening the oven door frequently. Also, evenly incorporate the almond paste with the wet ingredients to distribute moisture and flavor properly.