Vanilla Almond Cream Cake

---

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup sour cream

For the Almond Cream Filling:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional, for texture)

For the Frosting:

• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (add more as needed)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract

For Garnish:

• Toasted almond slivers or slices
• White chocolate shavings (optional)

---

Instructions

1. Bake the Cake:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk and sour cream, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Do not overmix.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Almond Cream Filling:

1. In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in almond extract and sliced almonds (if using). Chill until ready to use.

3. Make the Frosting:

1. Beat softened butter on medium speed until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with heavy cream, until smooth and fluffy.
3. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts. Adjust consistency with more cream or sugar as needed.

4. Assemble the Cake:

1. Level the cake layers with a serrated knife if needed.
2. Place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of almond cream filling on top.
3. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides with the prepared frosting.

5. Garnish:

• Decorate with toasted almond slivers and white chocolate shavings for an elegant touch.

6. Chill and Serve:

• Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before slicing for cleaner cuts. Serve and enjoy!

---

This Vanilla Almond Cream Cake is perfect for celebrations or special occasions!