Almond Raspberry Layer Cake

Almond Raspberry Layer Cake

 Ingredients

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

**For the Filling:**
– 1 cup raspberry jam
– 1 cup fresh raspberries

**For the Frosting:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp almond extract
– 2-3 tbsp heavy cream

**For the Decoration:**
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Fresh raspberries

#### Instructions

1. **Prepare the Cake:**
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
5. Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

2. **Prepare the Frosting:**
1. In a large bowl, beat the butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Add the vanilla and almond extracts and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy, adding more cream if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.

3. **Assemble the Cake:**
1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a thin layer of frosting over the top, then spread 1/3 cup of raspberry jam over the frosting. Repeat with the second layer.
2. Place the third cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
3. Press the sliced almonds onto the sides of the cake.
4. Decorate the top with fresh raspberries.

4. **Serve:**
1. Slice and serve the cake. Enjoy!

Feel free to customize the recipe to your liking, and let me know if you need any further assistance!