Creamy Almond Cake

Ingredients:

For the Cake:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt

For the Cream Filling:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup almond paste (optional for extra almond flavor)

For the Topping:
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Powdered sugar for dusting

PREPARATION:

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   – Grease and line a square baking pan with parchment paper.
   – In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   – Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   – Mix in the vanilla extract.
   – In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
   – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
2. Prepare the Cream Filling:
   – In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam (do not boil).
   – In a bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth.
   – Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
   – Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and begins to boil.
   – Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract (and almond paste, if using).
   – Allow the cream filling to cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Cake:
   – Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan.
   – Spoon the cream filling over the batter, spreading it evenly.
   – Top with the remaining cake batter, spreading it to cover the filling.
   – Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over the top of the batter.
4. Bake the Cake:
   – Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   – Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Serve:
   – Once the cake has cooled, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy your creamy almond cake! This delightful dessert pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea and makes for a perfect treat for any occasion.