Moist, buttery, and lightly sweet with a tender almond crumb—this Scandinavian Almond Cake brings all the charm of Nordic baking to your table. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday brunch or enjoying a quiet fika (Swedish coffee break), this cake delivers elegance and comfort in every slice.
Why You’ll Love This Almond Cake Recipe
- 🌰 Deep Almond Flavor: Almond extract is the star, balanced by butter and cream.
- 🇸🇪 Scandinavian Tradition: Simple, authentic, and perfect for fika or gifting.
- 🍰 Beautiful Presentation: The Rehrucken pan creates decorative ridges and a crisp golden crust.
- ⏱️ Quick and Easy: Only 9 ingredients and under an hour from start to finish.
- 🎁 Great for Gifting: Keeps well and travels beautifully in loaf tins.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 1¼ cups all-purpose flour (170g)
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1¼ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1½ tsp almond extract (or up to 2 tsp if you love bold almond flavor)
- ⅔ cup half & half cream
- ½ cup salted butter, melted and cooled
For the Topping:
- ¼ cup sliced almonds
- Powdered sugar, optional, for garnish
How to Make Scandinavian Almond Cake
1. Prepare the Pan
- Melt the butter and set aside to cool.
- Spray a 4.75 x 12.25-inch Rehrucken pan (or loaf pan) with baking spray.
- Sprinkle sliced almonds evenly across the bottom.
2. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat to 350°F (175°C). This allows even baking and a golden crust.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
4. Whisk the Wet Ingredients
- In a larger mixing bowl, combine sugar, egg, almond extract, and half & half. Whisk until smooth and slightly thickened.
5. Combine Everything
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet and whisk gently until just combined.
- Pour in the cooled melted butter and whisk until the batter is smooth and silky.
6. Bake to Perfection
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 40–50 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Cool and Invert
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes.
- Invert onto a wire rack to reveal the almond topping and decorative ridges.
8. Finish and Serve
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with berries, cream, or a hot cup of coffee.
Tips for Success
- 🧈 Room Temp Ingredients: Help create a smooth, evenly baked batter.
- 🧁 Do Not Overmix: Stir gently to avoid a tough cake.
- 🍰 Let Cool Before Inverting: This prevents sticking and helps maintain the almond topping.
- 🌰 Generous with Almond Extract? It’s welcome here! Bold almond flavor is signature in Scandinavian baking.
Storage and Freezing
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer-Friendly: Wrap in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat Tip: Slightly warm in the oven or microwave before serving for best texture.
Flavor Variations & Substitutions
- 🥥 Dairy-Free Version: Use full-fat coconut milk and plant-based butter.
- 🥛 No Half & Half? Use a mix of whole milk and heavy cream.
- 🍰 Holiday Twist: Add ¼ tsp ground cardamom for a warm, spiced flavor.
- 🍷 Serve with Glogg: During winter gatherings, pair with Swedish mulled wine for an authentic touch.
Traditional Serving Ideas
- 🇸🇪 Fika-Style: Serve with strong coffee or black tea and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
- 🍓 Berries & Cream: Add fresh strawberries or raspberries and whipped cream.
- 🍦 For Dessert: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of almond glaze.
Conclusion
With its rich almond flavor, moist crumb, and beautiful golden finish, this Scandinavian Almond Cake is a timeless treat you’ll return to again and again. Perfect for gifting, gatherings, or fika with friends, this Nordic gem is simple to bake—but always makes a lasting impression.