Burnt Almond Torte Recipe

Burnt Almond Torte Recipe

History:
The Burnt Almond Torte is a classic dessert that originated in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It was first introduced at Prantl's Bakery in 1970 and quickly became an iconic treat in the city. With its unique combination of crispy caramelized almonds and rich cake layers, this torte has won the hearts of many dessert enthusiasts over the years. The recipe has been passed down through generations, and it continues to be a beloved dessert in Pittsburgh and beyond.

Fun Facts:
1. The Burnt Almond Torte gained popularity due to its appearance on famous food shows, such as Food Network's "The Best Thing I Ever Ate."
2. Prantl's Bakery, where the torte was originally created, sells over 25,000 Burnt Almond Tortes every year.
3. The secret to the torte's success lies in its caramelized almonds, which add a delightful crunch and unique flavor to the cake layers.
4. The combination of the soft cake layers, creamy filling, and crunchy caramelized almonds makes the Burnt Almond Torte a truly indulgent dessert.

Now, let's dive into the recipe and learn how to make this delectable Burnt Almond Torte!

Ingredients:
For the cake:
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup sifted powdered sugar
- 1 cup sifted flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 tablespoons water

For the filling:
- 1/4 pound almonds
- 3 tablespoons white sugar

For the icing:
- 3 egg whites
- 1 pound powdered sugar
- Rose water (for flavor)

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sifted powdered sugar together until you have a thick batter consistency.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the sifted flour and baking powder.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture into the egg and sugar mixture, mixing lightly. Stir in the water until well combined.
5. Grease and flour jelly tins or cake pans. Divide the batter equally among the tins or pans.
6. Bake the cake layers for around 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. While the cake is baking, prepare the filling. Start by scalding the almonds - pour boiling water over them, let them sit for a few minutes, then remove the skins. Place the almonds on a pie plate and lightly toast them in the oven until slightly browned.
8. In a small saucepan, melt the white sugar on low heat, stirring constantly. Once melted and caramelized, add the toasted almonds and stir to coat them evenly. Remove from heat and let the almonds cool on a separate plate.
9. To make the icing, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to beat. Add a few drops of rose water to the icing for flavor.
10. Once the cake layers have cooled, spread a layer of icing on each layer, and cover them with the caramelized almonds.
11. Frost the entire cake with the remaining icing, making sure to cover the sides as well. Decorate with additional almonds as desired.
12. Allow the cake to set in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This will help the flavors meld together and make it easier to slice.

Serve this delicious Burnt Almond Torte with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat that will surely impress your guests!

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoy the Burnt Almond Torte, you might also like these similar recipe dishes:

1. Almond Cake: A simple and elegant cake made with ground almonds for a rich, nutty flavor. It can be served plain or with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top.

2. Almond Brittle: A crunchy treat made with caramelized almonds and a touch of sea salt. It's perfect for snacking or as a topping for ice cream or desserts.

3. Almond Croissants: A flaky French pastry filled with almond cream and topped with sliced almonds. These decadent treats are perfect for breakfast or brunch.

4. Almond Cookies: Delicate cookies made with almond flour and a hint of almond extract. They are crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside, making them a great accompaniment to a cup of tea.

These almond-inspired recipes offer a wide variety of flavors and textures, allowing you to explore the versatility of this delicious nut. Whether you prefer a cake, brittle, croissant, or cookie, there's an almond dessert for everyone to enjoy!