Delicious Brandy Almond Cake

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Delicious Brandy Almond Cake.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 300°F (150°C). While it warms up, take an 8-inch round baking pan and give it a good greasing and flouring to ensure your cake slides out easily later on.

2. Step 2

   In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and 1 1/2 cups of sugar using an electric mixer. Keep mixing until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, and you notice a lovely change in color. Now, one by one, add the room-temperature egg yolks, allowing each to blend in before adding the next. This step is crucial for a smooth batter!

3. Step 3

   Next, it's time to incorporate the dry ingredients. Gradually pour in the self-rising flour, alternating with the milk, mixing gently until everything is just combined. To elevate the flavor, stir in the almond extract, and let that aroma fill your kitchen!

4. Step 4

   In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This means when you lift your beater or whisk, the egg whites should stand tall and proud. Gently fold these fluffy whites into your batter, being careful not to deflate them. You want to keep that lightness!

5. Step 5

   Pour the beautifully combined batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Now, let it bake in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, cool the cake in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. If there’s any excess cake, feel free to trim it so it’s flush with the sides of the pan.

6. Step 6

   While your cake cools, let’s make a luscious brandy syrup. In a saucepan, bring the water and 1 cup of sugar to a boil, stirring occasionally for about 8 to 10 minutes. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to a simmer and stir in the brandy and vanilla extract. Allow this to simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes before removing it from the heat. Let the syrup cool to room temperature.

7. Step 7

   Once your cake is completely cool, take a toothpick and prick holes all over the top. This is where the magic happens! Slowly pour the brandy syrup over the cake, allowing it to soak in and infuse every bite with flavor.