Almond Vanilla Cream Cheese Pound Cake: Rich, Fluffy, and Frosted to Perfection
Made with almond flour, cream cheese, and vanilla—this low-carb loaf is moist, buttery, and topped with a dreamy frosting
Introduction: A Pound Cake That’s Pure Comfort
This Almond Vanilla Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a celebration of flavor and simplicity. Made almost entirely with Aldi staples, it’s rich, tender, and lightly sweetened with a monkfruit blend for a low-carb twist. The almond flour gives it a nutty depth, while cream cheese and Irish butter add luxurious moisture.
Topped with a fluffy vanilla-almond frosting, it’s the kind of cake that disappears fast—whether you’re serving it at brunch, slicing it for dessert, or sneaking a piece with your morning coffee.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s explore what makes this pound cake so satisfying:
Wet Ingredients:
- Organic eggs (4)
Provide structure and richness. - Cream cheese (4 oz, softened)
Adds moisture and tang. - Irish butter (4 tbsp, softened)
Adds flavor and a tender crumb. - Vanilla extract (3 tsp)
Adds warmth and depth.
Optional: Add almond extract for extra nuttiness.
Dry Ingredients:
- Almond flour (1¼ cups)
Gluten-free and low-carb—adds nutty flavor and soft texture. - Baking powder (2 tsp)
Helps the loaf rise. - Salt (pinch)
Balances sweetness and enhances flavor. - Sweetener (3–4 tbsp, monkfruit erythritol blend)
Adds sweetness without sugar—adjust to taste.
Tip: Use powdered sweetener for smoother texture.
Frosting:
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened)
Forms the creamy base. - Irish butter (4 tbsp, softened)
Adds richness and smooth texture. - Sweetener (¼ cup)
Sweetens and fluffs the frosting. - Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
Adds flavor. - Almond extract (optional)
Adds a nutty twist.
Optional: Double the frosting for extra indulgence.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
Butter a loaf pan thoroughly.
Tip: Line with parchment for easy release.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl:
- Beat eggs, cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth.
Tip: Use room temperature ingredients for best texture.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Add one at a time:
- Almond flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Sweetener
Mix until fully combined.
Optional: Fold in chopped almonds or lemon zest.
Step 4: Bake
Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
Bake for 35 minutes, until:
- Top is golden
- Toothpick inserted comes out clean
Let cool completely before frosting.
Tip: Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
Step 5: Make the Frosting
In a bowl:
- Beat cream cheese, butter, sweetener, vanilla, and almond extract (if using) until fluffy.
Spread over cooled cake.
Optional: Chill frosting for 10 minutes before spreading.
Step 6: Serve
Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Pair with:
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
- Almond milk latte
Presentation Tip: Garnish with toasted almonds or a dusting of powdered sweetener.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for:
- Low-carb brunch
- Afternoon tea
- Holiday dessert tables
- Meal prep treats
Serve with:
- Berry compote
- Sugar-free chocolate drizzle
- Herbal tea
Tip: Slice and freeze for grab-and-go snacks.
Variations to Try
Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:
Lemon Almond
Add lemon zest and swap vanilla for lemon extract.
Chocolate Chip
Fold in sugar-free chocolate chips.
Coconut Cream
Use coconut extract and top with shredded coconut.
Vegan Version
Use plant-based cream cheese, butter, and egg substitute.
Berry Swirl
Add a swirl of strawberry jam before baking.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-Ahead: Bake and frost up to 2 days in advance.
- Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Freeze unfrosted loaf for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.
Tip: Wrap tightly in plastic and foil to preserve freshness.
Nutrition Notes (Per Slice, ~1 of 10)
- Calories: ~220
- Protein: ~6g
- Carbohydrates: ~5g
- Fat: ~18g
- Sugar: ~1g
- Sodium: ~120mg
- Fiber: ~2g
This cake is:
- Low-carb
- Gluten-free
- Comfort food approved
- Perfect for gifting
Final Thoughts
This Almond Vanilla Cream Cheese Pound Cake is more than just a loaf—it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and simplicity. Whether you’re baking with Aldi finds or customizing with your own pantry staples, it’s guaranteed to satisfy.
