🍓 Strawberry Almond Cream Cake
🌟 Introduction
A dessert that speaks elegance and comfort, the Strawberry Almond Cream Cake is a light, fluffy, and luxurious treat. It features layers of tender almond-infused sponge, silky whipped cream, and fresh strawberries — a perfect blend of nutty richness and fruity freshness. Whether served at a celebration or as a summer dessert centerpiece, it’s a showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make.
📜 Origin and Cultural Significance
Strawberry cakes have been a staple of European and American baking since the 19th century, often symbolizing spring and early summer — the peak of strawberry season. The almond element harks back to European patisserie traditions, particularly in French and Italian baking, where almond flour and extracts are commonly used for depth and luxury.
This cake brings together the simplicity of shortcake, the lightness of a sponge, and the refinement of almond and cream for a fusion dessert that spans cultures and generations.
📝 Ingredients Quantity (Serves 10–12)
For the Almond Sponge Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Filling & Topping:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam (optional, for extra moisture)
Garnish (optional):
- Slivered almonds (toasted)
- Whole strawberries
- Mint leaves
âž• Optional Additions
- Mascarpone cheese (1/2 cup) for a richer cream filling
- Lemon zest in the cream for a citrusy twist
- Strawberry liqueur brushed onto the cake layers for extra flavor
- Chopped white chocolate mixed into the cream
- Gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version
đź§ Tips for Success
- Use room temperature eggs for a lighter, better-risen sponge.
- Don’t overmix after combining the dry ingredients — keep it light.
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream.
- Toast the almonds briefly for enhanced flavor and crunch.
- Let the cake cool fully before slicing or assembling.
- Make ahead: Cake layers and whipped cream can be made a day in advance.
👩‍🍳 Instructions
1. Bake the Almond Sponge:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat eggs and sugar until pale and tripled in volume (about 5 minutes).
- Heat milk and butter together until just melted; stir in almond and vanilla extracts.
- Gently fold dry ingredients into the egg mixture in two additions.
- Stir in the warm milk-butter mixture until just combined.
- Pour into pans and bake 22–25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on racks.
2. Prepare the Whipped Cream:
- In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until medium-stiff peaks form.
- Chill until ready to use.
3. Assemble the Cake:
- Slice cake layers horizontally (optional) for 4 thin layers or use as 2 thicker layers.
- Spread a thin layer of strawberry jam on the bottom layer (optional).
- Top with whipped cream and sliced strawberries.
- Repeat layers, ending with a smooth layer of cream on top.
- Garnish with slivered almonds, whole strawberries, and mint leaves.
4. Chill & Serve:
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing to allow layers to set.
- Serve chilled for best texture and flavor.
✨ Description
This cake is a textural and flavor delight — soft almond sponge with a delicate crumb, layered with lush whipped cream and vibrant strawberries. The almond adds a subtle, nutty warmth that enhances the berries’ natural sweetness. Light yet satisfying, it’s a celebration in every bite.
📊 Nutritional Information (Approx. per slice, 1 of 12 servings)
- Calories: ~310 kcal
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Protein: 5g
- Sugar: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
Values may vary depending on additions like jam or mascarpone.
âś… Conclusion and Recommendation
The Strawberry Almond Cream Cake is a perfect choice when you want a dessert that looks impressive but is simple to make. With its fresh ingredients and light texture, it works equally well for birthdays, brunches, Mother’s Day, or summer gatherings. The combination of almonds and strawberries is classic, comforting, and just a little bit fancy.
🥗 Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Dessert can be both pleasurable and nourishing. With fresh fruit, almond flour (which adds healthy fats and fiber), and naturally sweet whipped cream, this cake strikes a balance between decadence and wholesomeness.
You can also:
- Use low-fat whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter filling.
- Choose organic strawberries to avoid pesticide residues.
- Reduce the sugar slightly without losing flavor, thanks to the berries’ natural sweetness.