Chocolate Almond Flour Cake

Highlighted under: Easy Desserts Favorites

I absolutely love baking this Chocolate Almond Flour Cake for special occasions or simple gatherings. The combination of rich chocolate and nutty almond flour creates a delightful flavor and moist texture that everyone raves about. It's surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe in my collection. I appreciate how gluten-free almond flour gives this cake a unique twist while still delivering that indulgent chocolate taste. Whether topped with fresh berries or enjoyed on its own, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser that warms my heart with every slice.

Ottoline Reeves

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:51:35.951Z

Throughout my baking journey, I've always been on the lookout for healthier alternatives to standard desserts. Not only does this Chocolate Almond Flour Cake satisfy chocolate cravings, but it also allows me to indulge while feeling good about what I'm eating. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen, and they work together beautifully to create a cake that is both rich and satisfying.

One of my favorite moments while making this cake was the first time I saw it rise in the oven. The aroma of melted chocolate and roasted almonds filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. I discovered that letting it cool completely enhances the flavors, so patience is key. Trust me, this cake is worth the wait!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Decadent and dense chocolate flavor that satisfies any chocolate craving
  • Nutty undertones from almond flour that add a unique twist
  • Perfectly moist texture that stays fresh for days
  • Gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of diets

The Role of Almond Flour

Almond flour not only adds a unique nutty flavor but also contributes to the cake's moist texture. It’s important to use finely ground almond flour for the best results, as coarser options can result in a grainy texture that detracts from the overall experience. The fat content in almond flour helps keep the cake tender, so it maintains its moistness even after a few days at room temperature. If you’re unsure about the texture, a quick pulse in the food processor can help achieve that fine consistency.

Additionally, almond flour is naturally gluten-free, making this cake an excellent choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. If you want to experiment with other flours, you can try using a gluten-free all-purpose blend; however, be mindful that changes in texture and moisture may occur, so adjustments to liquid ingredients might be necessary.

Baking Tips for Success

When baking the Chocolate Almond Flour Cake, it's crucial to pay attention to the baking time. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, while underbaking might leave a gooey center. Aim for a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake to come out clean, which may take slightly longer if your oven runs colder. If you notice the top browning too quickly, you can loosely tent a piece of aluminum foil over the cake during the last few minutes of baking.

Using room-temperature ingredients can significantly enhance the cake’s texture. When eggs and milk are at room temperature, they incorporate more easily into the batter, leading to a smoother consistency. I recommend setting these ingredients out about 30 minutes before you start mixing, which not only helps with the blending process but will also create a fluffier cake.

Serving and Storing Your Cake

This cake pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings. Consider serving it with whipped cream or fresh berries for an elegant touch—both complement the chocolate flavor well. You might even drizzle a simple chocolate ganache on top for added richness. This cake is lovely on its own, but those extra touches can elevate it further, especially for gatherings or special occasions.

For storage, keep the cake wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to five days. If you're looking to make ahead, this cake freezes exceptionally well. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This way, you can always have a delicious treat on hand!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful cake:

Ingredients

  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup milk

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chocolate Almond Flour 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 large bowl, sift together the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve the cake with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar for added elegance.

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Pro Tips

  • For an extra touch, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Flavor Variations

To switch up the flavor profile of your Chocolate Almond Flour Cake, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dry ingredients. This enhances the chocolate flavor without being overly coffee-flavored. You can also fold in chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture; just be cautious not to overload the batter, which can affect its rise.

If you prefer a hint of fruit, adding a few tablespoons of orange zest can bring a bright, citrusy twist that pairs well with chocolate. Alternatively, try incorporating almond extract instead of vanilla for a more pronounced nutty flavor that aligns beautifully with the almond flour base.

Gluten-Free Baking Considerations

When baking gluten-free, it's essential to understand the properties of your ingredients. Almond flour, as a dense flour, may require additional leavening agents for optimal rise. If you want a lighter texture, consider adding an extra 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder or including a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in your wet ingredients to create a reaction that helps the cake rise beautifully.

Also, note that different brands of almond flour can absorb moisture differently. You might find your batter varies in consistency; if it's too thick, a splash more milk can help achieve the desired pourable texture. Just keep an eye on the final batter; it should be thick but not crumbly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the almond flour with regular flour?

I recommend using almond flour for the best texture and flavor, but you can experiment with regular flour if needed.

→ Does this cake need to be refrigerated?

This cake stays fresh at room temperature for about three days, but you can refrigerate it to extend its shelf life.

→ Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative, but this may slightly alter the taste and texture.

→ What can I serve with the cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, fresh fruits, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Chocolate Almond Flour Cake

I absolutely love baking this Chocolate Almond Flour Cake for special occasions or simple gatherings. The combination of rich chocolate and nutty almond flour creates a delightful flavor and moist texture that everyone raves about. It's surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe in my collection. I appreciate how gluten-free almond flour gives this cake a unique twist while still delivering that indulgent chocolate taste. Whether topped with fresh berries or enjoyed on its own, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser that warms my heart with every slice.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Ottoline Reeves

Recipe Type: Easy Desserts Favorites

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 cup almond flour
  2. 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  3. 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  4. 1/4 teaspoon salt
  5. 1/2 cup sugar
  6. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  7. 3 large eggs
  8. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  9. 1/4 cup milk

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

In a large bowl, sift together the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Step 03

In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.

Step 04

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Step 05

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 06

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Extra Tips

  1. For an extra touch, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g