If you have ever wanted to master the luscious, velvety filling that transforms simple pastries into divine treats, look no further than this Almond Cream (Frangipane) Recipe. It captures the rich, nutty flavor of almonds with a silky texture that’s both indulgent and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re filling tarts, pies, or adding that special touch to cakes, this recipe is the secret ingredient that will make your desserts unforgettable. Prepare yourself to fall in love with a cream that’s as versatile as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, containing three main layers. The bottom layer is a rough, pale beige flour forming a ring around the bowl’s edge. Inside the flour ring, there is a pool of smooth, bright yellow beaten egg yolk. On top of the flour near the yolk, there are uneven small cubes of light yellow butter scattered, some partially melted. The overall texture shows a mix of dry flour, soft butter, and wet egg in the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Almond Cream (Frangipane) Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each element plays a critical role, from providing richness and structure to enhancing flavor and texture, making your final pastry irresistibly satisfying.

115 g unsalted butter (room temperature): Provides creaminess and moisture to the almond cream, ensuring a smooth texture.
100 g granulated sugar: Adds the perfect balance of sweetness without overpowering the nutty flavors.
2 large eggs (room temperature): Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the creamy consistency.
100 g ground almonds: The star ingredient that gives frangipane its signature almond flavor and slightly grainy texture.
40 g plain flour (all-purpose): Adds structure and keeps the filling from being too loose.
½ tsp fine salt: Enhances all the flavors, cutting through the sweetness for a balanced taste.

How to Make Almond Cream (Frangipane) Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Almonds

If you’re starting with whole almonds, toss them into a food processor with sugar and pulse until they reach a coarse consistency. Be careful not to over-process, as you want to avoid creating almond butter. This step is key to infusing your frangipane with fresh, toasty almond flavor and a great texture.

Step 2: Combining Ingredients in a Food Processor

Add the butter, eggs, flour, and salt into the ground almonds and sugar mixture. Process until the batter is smooth and well mixed, stopping midway to scrape down the bowl to ensure everything is evenly combined. This is your classic approach for an effortless almond cream with rich smoothness.

Step 3: Using a Stand Mixer or Hand-Held Beaters

Cream the butter and sugar on medium speed until the mixture turns pale and fluffy—this step is essential to achieving lightness. Then, gradually add the eggs and beat until combined. Finally, fold in the almond meal, flour, and salt until the mixture is silky and uniform.

Step 4: Making Almond Cream by Hand

Start by whisking together the sugar, ground almonds, flour, and salt. Then add softened butter and eggs and vigorously whisk until everything comes together. Though more labor-intensive, this method connects you directly with the ingredients and yields a wonderfully rustic frangipane.

How to Serve Almond Cream (Frangipane) Recipe

The image shows a glass bowl filled with a thick, creamy pale yellow almond paste with a slightly rough texture. A silver spoon holds a scoop of the almond paste above the bowl, highlighting its soft and smooth consistency. Around the bowl, there are a few whole almonds and some almond meal scattered on a light beige cloth, all placed on a white marbled surface. The overall look is warm and natural, focusing on the texture and color of the almond paste. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of sliced almonds or a dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant finish with a little crunch contrast to the creamy texture. Fresh berries also brighten up the sweetness, creating a stunning presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair your frangipane-filled dessert with lightly whipped cream or a dollop of mascarpone for extra indulgence. A side of fresh fruit compote complements the rich almond flavor beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Use this Almond Cream (Frangipane) Recipe to fill tart shells, spread it in a puff pastry to make a galette, or layer it between cake tiers for a moist, nutty surprise. You could even bake it inside croissants for a luxurious breakfast treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover almond cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, and it will be easy to scoop or spread when ready to use again.

Freezing

You can freeze the almond cream for up to 1 month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and give it a quick stir before using to restore its creamy consistency.

Reheating

Gently warm the almond cream in a bowl over a pan of simmering water or microwave it briefly at low power, stirring often. Reheating will bring back that soft, luscious texture that’s perfect for filling and topping desserts.

FAQs

Can I use almond flour instead of ground almonds?

Yes, almond flour can be used as a substitute, but it’s usually finer than ground almonds. If you want a slightly coarser texture, grinding whole almonds yourself is ideal for a more authentic frangipane experience.

Is this Almond Cream (Frangipane) Recipe gluten-free?

Not as is, since it contains plain flour. For a gluten-free version, try substituting with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend, keeping in mind the texture and consistency might change slightly.

Can I make the frangipane ahead of time for baking later?

Absolutely! The almond cream can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature and give a gentle stir before using to make spreading or filling easier.

What desserts work best with almond cream?

Tarts, galettes, brioche, and croissants are classic choices. It also works beautifully in layered cakes or as a filling for pastries to add rich, nutty flavor and moisture.

How can I make my Almond Cream more flavorful?

Try adding a splash of almond extract or a teaspoon of rum for a deeper aroma. Some zest of lemon or orange peel can also brighten the flavor beautifully without overpowering the almonds.

Final Thoughts

This Almond Cream (Frangipane) Recipe is truly a treasure to keep in your baking repertoire. It’s simple to prepare but elevates your desserts with its rich almond flavor and smooth, creamy texture. Once you try it, you’ll find endless ways to use it from sweet tarts to special occasion cakes. So go ahead, bake with heart, and share the love that comes with this wonderful almond cream.