An efficient process useful for the self-condensation of aliphatic aldehydes is provided, catalyzed by dialkylammonium carboxylate salts. In particular, the invention provides a facile method for the preparation of 2-ethyl hexenal via the self-condensation of butyraldehyde using various dialkylammonium carboxylates, e.g., diisopropylammonium acetate or dimethylammonium acetate, as catalyst. Additionally, residual nitrogen arising from the catalyst can be reduced to −100 ppm levels in the product via a simple washing procedure. The invention provides a process for preparing alkenals under conditions which limit the formation of undesired impurities and high-boiling oligomeric substances.