Name: Rhubarb Frangipane Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 9 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup almond flour; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 1/2 cups chopped rhubarb; Powdered sugar (for dusting)

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If you love the perfect blend of tart and sweet with a nutty, tender crumb, then this Rhubarb Frangipane Cake Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Imagine a moist almond-infused cake dotted with vibrant chunks of rhubarb that balance richness with a refreshing zing. It’s a heartfelt homemade treat that brings a burst of springtime freshness straight to your table, ideal for sharing with friends or savoring any time you want a special something truly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round cake with a light golden crust and hints of pink rhubarb pieces baked inside is sliced into wedges and placed on a white marbled surface. One slice lies on a white plate, dusted with powdered sugar and topped with a dollop of white whipped cream and thin almond slices. Another slice rests plain on a second white plate with a silver fork beside it. Nearby, a white cup holds black coffee, and fresh pink and green rhubarb stalks sit on a wooden board. A white bowl filled with whipped cream and a silver spoon completes the scene with a colorful patterned cloth adding a touch of blue, red, and white on the bottom left. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Rhubarb Frangipane Cake Recipe keeps things straightforward yet carefully balanced. Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating a perfect harmony of texture, flavor, and color that will make every bite memorable.

9 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature): Provides richness and helps achieve a tender, moist crumb.
3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while allowing the almond and rhubarb flavors to shine.
3 large eggs: Bind everything together and add structure and moisture to the cake.
1 teaspoon vanilla: Enhances the cake’s aromatic depth, complementing the almond and rhubarb perfectly.
1 cup almond flour: Adds a lovely nutty flavor that’s signature to frangipane.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Gives the cake body and a soft, tender texture.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise gently for a light texture without overpowering the other tastes.
1 1/2 cups chopped rhubarb: Bursts of tartness that balance the sweetness and add a beautiful pop of color.
Powdered sugar (for serving): A delicate dusting to finish the cake with elegance and a touch of extra sweetness.

How to Make Rhubarb Frangipane Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F, placing the rack in the center position to ensure even baking. Buttering a 9-inch cake pan is key here to prevent sticking and help you reveal that golden crust so beautifully later on.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is fluffy and pale—this aerates the batter and lays the foundation for a tender cake. Scrape down the sides occasionally to keep everything well incorporated.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This gradual mixing helps create a smooth, velvety batter, ensuring no lumps and a consistent texture throughout your cake.

Step 4: Add Vanilla Flavor

Stir in the vanilla extract, which will complement the almond and rhubarb notes perfectly, elevating the cake’s subtle fragrance and flavor.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together almond flour, all-purpose flour, and baking powder. Slowly add this into your wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and tender.

Step 6: Fold in Rhubarb

Now for the star ingredient—gently fold in the chopped rhubarb pieces. This ensures each bite has bursts of tanginess that contrast beautifully with the nutty, sweet batter.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into the buttered cake pan, smoothing the top for an even rise. Bake for about 35 minutes until golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before moving to the next step.

Step 8: Finishing Touch

Once cooled, dust the cake with powdered sugar just before serving. This simple garnish adds a delicate sweetness and elevates the presentation to make it even more inviting.

How to Serve Rhubarb Frangipane Cake Recipe

A round pie with a light golden crust is placed on a dark surface with a white marbled texture, dusted evenly with powdered sugar. The pie has one large slice and a smaller slice cut out, showing a soft inside dotted with pieces of pink-red fruit. Two long rhubarb stalks rest diagonally to the upper left of the pie. Around the pie, there is a white bowl with sliced almonds on the left, a small metal shaker near the top right, and a white cup of dark coffee to the right. In the lower right corner is a white plate with a metal pie server resting on it. A white and gray striped cloth is folded near the bottom left side of the pie. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A light sprinkle of powdered sugar is classic, but you could also add a few toasted almond flakes on top for extra crunch and a hint of caramelized nuttiness that pairs perfectly with the frangipane.

Side Dishes

This cake is fantastic on its own but also shines alongside a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which brings a creamy counterpoint to the tart rhubarb.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, serve individual slices with a spoonful of homemade rhubarb compote or a drizzle of honey. You can also plate it with fresh berries to add a burst of color and fresh flavor that complements every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Rhubarb Frangipane Cake Recipe covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and moisture.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this cake freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, gently warm slices in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds. This revives the nutty aroma and soft texture beautifully.

FAQs

Can I substitute the almond flour in the Rhubarb Frangipane Cake Recipe?

Almond flour is essential here because it adds that characteristic nutty flavor and tender texture to the frangipane. While you might try ground hazelnuts or other nut flours, the final taste and texture will differ, so it’s best to stick with almond flour for authentic results.

Is it possible to use frozen rhubarb for this cake?

Yes, frozen rhubarb can be used, but it’s important to thaw and drain it well first to avoid excess moisture, which could affect the cake’s texture. Pat dry with paper towels before folding it into the batter.

How long does the Rhubarb Frangipane Cake Recipe take to bake?

The baking time is approximately 35 minutes at 325°F, but ovens vary. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

Can I make this cake vegan or dairy-free?

Adapting this exact recipe to be vegan or dairy-free is tricky because butter, eggs, and almond flour each contribute critical flavor and texture. However, you could experiment with plant-based butter and egg replacers, but the result will not be identical to the classic Rhubarb Frangipane Cake Recipe.

What makes this cake different from a regular rhubarb cake?

The inclusion of almond flour creates the frangipane element, giving the cake a unique nutty richness and a denser, moister crumb compared to many typical rhubarb cakes that rely solely on all-purpose flour.

Final Thoughts

With its inviting combination of tart rhubarb and luscious almond frangipane, this Rhubarb Frangipane Cake Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels both cozy and sophisticated. Once you experience the joyous balance of flavors and textures, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. Don’t hesitate to bake it soon and share a slice of happiness with those you love.