A layered catalyst composition is disclosed where the composition is prepared by bonding an outer layer comprising a bound zeolite (e.g. zeolite beta) to an inner core material (e.g. cordierite). The use of an organic bonding agent in the catalyst preparation procedure provides a composition that is sufficiently resistant to mechanical attrition to be used commercially in aromatic alkylation processes (e.g. benzene alkylation to ethylbenzene). Advantages associated with the use of layered compositions include a significant reduction in the amount of zeolite used for a given reactor loading and improved selectivity to desired alkylated aromatic products. Further benefits are realized when the layered composition is formed into shapes having a sufficiently high void volume to reduce pressure drop across the alkylation catalyst bed. This is especially relevant for operation involving high recycle rates and consequently low alkylating agent concentrations in the reaction zone. Such conditions are known to promote reduced byproduct formation.