Soft Vanilla Almond Tea Cake

Name: Soft Vanilla Almond Tea Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup almond flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup milk; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Joy

I absolutely love making this Soft Vanilla Almond Tea Cake for afternoon gatherings. The aroma of vanilla and almond wafts through the kitchen, bringing back memories of my childhood tea parties. Baking this cake is a breeze, and it yields a soft, tender crumb that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea. Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual get-together, this cake has become a staple in my home—and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Created by

Aubrey Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-16T04:53:36.777Z

When I first tried baking a tea cake, I aimed for something light and flavorful. The combination of vanilla and almond caught my attention, and I was thrilled with the results. The cake turned out fluffy and moist; it was everything I had hoped for!

Through experimentation, I found that incorporating almond extract along with vanilla gives the cake a delightful depth of flavor. A simple glaze on top enhances the presentation while adding a sweet finish that's perfect for any tea party setting.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicate vanilla flavor enriched with almond essence
Perfectly moist texture that pairs wonderfully with tea
Versatile for any occasion, from brunch to dessert

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality butter is crucial for achieving the rich flavor and tender crumb that make this Soft Vanilla Almond Tea Cake so delightful. I recommend opting for unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in your batter. A good, creamy butter will contribute to the cake's overall moistness and flavor profile, balancing the sweetness from the sugar perfectly.

Another key ingredient to focus on is the almond extract. Select a pure almond extract rather than an imitation, as this markedly enhances the cake's aroma and depth of flavor. It complements the vanilla beautifully, creating a harmonious blend that is both nostalgic and comforting. If you're looking for a nut-free option, consider using vanilla extract alone, but note that the flavor will be slightly different.

Perfecting Your Technique

When creaming the butter and sugar, take your time. Aim for a light and fluffy texture, which typically takes about 3-5 minutes of mixing at medium speed. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the batter, aiding in leavening and creating a soft, tender cake. Be careful not to overmix once you add the dry ingredients; mix just until combined to avoid a dense texture.

When pouring the batter into your prepared cake pan, use a spatula to gently smooth the top for even baking. A common mistake is not leveling the batter, which can lead to an uneven rise. Bake the cake until it's golden around the edges and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This typically takes about 30 minutes, but start checking a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to begin making your Soft Vanilla Almond Tea Cake:

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup almond flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup milk

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately to achieve the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Soft Vanilla Almond Tea Cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Extracts

Add eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture, mixing until smooth.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Glaze

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Mix the glaze ingredients and drizzle over the cooled cake.

Slice and serve with your favorite tea!

Pro Tips

For a nutty twist, add chopped almonds to the batter. Always use room temperature ingredients for a fluffier cake.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This tea cake can be made a day in advance, which makes it perfect for planning gatherings. Once cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature. The flavors will develop even more overnight, making the cake taste even better the next day. If you're looking to store it longer, consider freezing slices for up to three months; simply wrap them individually in plastic and foil.

When you're ready to serve, you can refresh the cake by giving it a quick 10-second zap in the microwave. To maintain the glaze's glossiness after storage, consider adding a fresh drizzle just before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also provides a delightful burst of flavor!

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant touch, consider serving slices of this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, also make a fantastic accompaniment, enhancing both the flavor and the visual appeal of your dessert. Pairing it with a herbal tea can elevate your afternoon gathering experience.

Additionally, this cake is versatile enough to be dressed up for special occasions. You can add a layer of fresh fruits or create a fun themed glaze with seasonal flavors. For an aromatic twist, try infusing your glaze with a hint of citrus zest for a refreshing kick that complements the vanilla and almond beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute almond flour with something else?

Yes, you can use more all-purpose flour, but the texture may differ.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to two months.

→ What can I use in place of milk?

You can use almond milk or any non-dairy milk of your choice.