Layered Chocolate Almond Cake with Cream Filling is an elegant dessert featuring moist chocolate-almond sponge cake layered with a light vanilla cream. Finished with a glossy chocolate topping and sliced almonds, this cake is rich, refined, and perfect for celebrations or formal gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moist and tender chocolate-almond layers
Delicate cream filling adds balance and lightness
Sophisticated look with minimal effort
Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or tea-time desserts
Easily made in advance and beautifully sliceable

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cake layers:

All-purpose flour
Almond flour or finely ground almonds
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking powder
Salt
Eggs
Granulated sugar
Vegetable oil or melted butter
Milk
Vanilla extract
Almond extract (optional)

For the cream filling:

Heavy whipping cream
Powdered sugar
Cream cheese or mascarpone (optional for structure)
Vanilla extract

For the topping:

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate
Heavy cream
Sliced almonds, toasted (for garnish)

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line and grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
Make the cake batter: Whisk together flour, almond flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in oil, milk, vanilla, and almond extract.
Fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely.
Prepare the cream filling: Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla (plus cream cheese or mascarpone, if using) until stiff peaks form.
Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of cream filling on top. Add the second cake layer.
Make the ganache topping: Heat cream and pour over chopped chocolate. Let sit, then stir until smooth.
Pour ganache over the top of the cake and let it drip slightly down the sides.
Garnish with toasted sliced almonds. Chill for 30 minutes before slicing.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10–12 slices
Prep time: 30 minutes
Bake time: 25 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: About 1.5 hours

Variations

Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free flour blend and almond flour.
Mocha version: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the cake batter.
Fruit filling: Add a thin layer of raspberry or cherry jam beneath the cream.
Nut swap: Replace almonds with hazelnuts or pistachios.
Whipped ganache: Chill and whip the ganache for a fluffier topping.

storage/reheating

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator.
Reheating: Not necessary—best served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make this cake in one pan and slice it?

Yes, bake in a deeper pan and slice the cake horizontally once cooled.

Does the cream filling hold up well?

Yes, especially if stabilized with mascarpone or cream cheese.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. It’s best chilled for at least a few hours before serving.

Is almond flour essential?

It adds flavor and moisture, but you can replace it with more all-purpose flour if needed.

Can I skip the ganache?

Yes, dust the top with cocoa powder or powdered sugar instead for a lighter finish.

How do I toast sliced almonds?

Spread them on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, stirring halfway.

Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade cream?

For convenience, yes, but homemade cream has better texture and flavor.

How do I avoid a dry cake?

Do not overbake, and ensure the batter is well mixed but not overmixed.

Can I use almond extract in the filling?

Yes, just a few drops will enhance the almond flavor throughout the cake.

Will the ganache harden too much?

No, it stays soft and glossy if the cream-to-chocolate ratio is correct.

Conclusion

Layered Chocolate Almond Cake with Cream Filling is an elegant, show-stopping dessert with rich chocolate flavor, subtle almond notes, and a creamy center. Whether you’re hosting guests or celebrating something special, this cake delivers both on flavor and appearance with every slice.