Indulge your taste buds with the perfect blend of flavors in this exquisite White Chocolate Almond Raspberry Cake. This dessert is a symphony of almond-infused cake layers, creamy white chocolate amaretto buttercream frosting, and tangy raspberry preserves, all beautifully adorned with fresh raspberries and sliced almonds. Follow this detailed recipe to create a stunning centerpiece for any special occasion or a delightful treat for your loved ones.
Ingredients:
For the Almond Cake:
- 2 and 1/2 cups cake flour, sifted (315 grams)
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 and 1/2 cups (298 grams) granulated sugar
- 6 large egg whites, at room temperature, lightly beaten until foamy
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons almond extract
- 3/4 cup (170 grams) whole milk, at room temperature
- 2/3 cup (152 grams) sour cream, at room temperature
For the White Chocolate Amaretto Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 and 1/2 cups (283g/10 ounces) confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 Tablespoon heavy cream
- 1 and 1/2 Tablespoons amaretto liqueur
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 6 ounces (170g) quality white chocolate, melted and cooled for 10 minutes
Assembly and Garnish:
- 1 cup raspberry preserves
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 cup thinly sliced almonds
Preparation:
For the Almond Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (F). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans generously, line them with parchment paper rounds, and set them aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or a handheld electric mixer, beat butter on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy (about 1 minute).
- Gradually add granulated sugar to the butter, beating on high speed for 2 minutes after all the sugar has been added.
- Reduce the speed to low and add beaten egg whites gradually, ensuring thorough mixing after each addition.
- In a spouted measuring cup, combine vanilla extract, almond extract, milk, and sour cream. Mix until evenly combined.
- On low speed, add the flour mixture in three additions, alternating with the liquid mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until lightly brown around the edges and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes in the pans on a wire rack for 15 minutes, then invert them onto cooling racks and cool completely.
For the White Chocolate Amaretto Buttercream Frosting:
- In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or a large bowl using a handheld electric mixer, beat butter on medium speed until completely smooth.
- Reduce the speed to low and gradually add sifted confectioners’ sugar, beating until completely combined.
- Add salt, cream, amaretto, and almond extract, beating until smooth.
- Mix in melted white chocolate until fully incorporated.
- Increase the speed to medium-high and beat for an additional minute until smooth.
Assembly and Garnish:
- Using a long serrated knife, slice each cake layer horizontally to create 4 even layers.
- Place one cake layer on a large plate or cake stand. Spread 1/2 cup of frosting over the cake, followed by 1/4 cup of raspberry preserves.
- Repeat the layering process, ending with the final cake layer on top. Spread remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
- Gently press sliced almonds around the sides of the cake and top with fresh raspberries.
- Allow the cake to set for 20 minutes before slicing and serving. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, bringing it to room temperature before serving.
Conclusion: The White Chocolate Almond Raspberry Cake is a true masterpiece, combining the richness of white chocolate, the nuttiness of almonds, and the tartness of raspberries into a harmonious symphony of flavors. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a decadent treat, this cake is sure to impress. Follow the recipe carefully for a moist, tender crumb and a creamy, luscious frosting that will leave your guests asking for more. Enjoy every bite of this delightful creation!
