Banana Almond Torte

Banana Almond Torte Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 60 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

The Banana Almond Torte is a delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, nutty flavor of almonds. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a dessert that is not overly sweet but is packed with flavor and texture. The addition of citrus elements through lemon juice and orange rind adds a refreshing zest that balances the richness of the nuts and the sweetness of the bananas. This torte is ideal for various occasions, from casual gatherings to more formal celebrations.

History

The Banana Almond Torte is a recipe that has evolved over time, drawing inspiration from traditional European tortes which are known for their dense, moist texture and nut-based ingredients. The incorporation of bananas into the recipe adds a modern twist, reflecting a more contemporary approach to baking that embraces the fusion of different culinary traditions and ingredients. This torte is a testament to the creativity of home bakers who experiment with flavors and textures to create something uniquely delicious.

Ingredients

7 large eggs, separated and kept at room temperature
1.33 cups of sugar
3 tbsp of lemon juice
1 tbsp of grated orange rind
4 very ripe bananas, mashed (about 1.33 cups)
1 cup of matzah cake meal
1 cup of coarsely ground almonds
1 tsp of salt

How to prepare

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the yolks until they are thick and pale.
Gradually add the sugar, beating until the mixture becomes very thick.
Beat in the lemon juice and rind, then add the bananas, matzah cake meal, almonds, and salt. Continue beating until the mixture is well combined.
In a clean, dry bowl, use clean, dry beaters to beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Stir in 1 cup of the beaten egg whites into the banana mixture, then gently but thoroughly fold in the remaining egg whites.
Pour the batter into an ungreased 9" tube pan with a removable bottom that is 3.5" deep. Bake the torte in the middle of a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 55–60 minutes, or until a tester comes out clean.
Invert the pan over the neck of a bottle and let the torte cool upside down.
Run a thin knife around the edge and tube of the pan, then remove the side of the pan.
Run the knife under the bottom of the torte to release it, then carefully transfer the torte to a serving plate using 2 spatulas.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute the matzah cake meal with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. To reduce the sugar content, consider using a sugar substitute suitable for baking. Adding a handful of dark chocolate chips or cocoa powder can introduce a chocolatey twist to the recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the success of your Banana Almond Torte, consider the following tips and tricks:

- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.

- Ensure that your egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks to give the torte its light, airy texture.

- Be gentle when folding in the egg whites to maintain the airiness of the batter.

- Do not grease the tube pan, as the batter needs to cling to the sides to rise properly.

- Cooling the torte upside down helps maintain its height and prevents it from collapsing.

Serving Suggestions

This torte is best served at room temperature or slightly chilled. It can be garnished with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or fresh slices of banana and a sprinkle of chopped almonds for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe include separating eggs, beating egg whites to stiff peaks, and folding ingredients to maintain the batter's volume. Mastering these techniques will ensure a light and airy torte with a delicate crumb.

Ingredient Substitutions

If matzah cake meal is not available, you can use all-purpose flour or a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute. Instead of almonds, other nuts like walnuts or pecans can be used for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

This torte can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld together and can make serving easier, especially for events or gatherings.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, serve slices of the torte on individual plates with a garnish of fresh mint leaves, a drizzle of honey, or a raspberry coulis for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

The Banana Almond Torte pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or tea. For a dessert wine option, consider a Moscato d'Asti or a late-harvest Riesling, which complement the torte's sweetness and nutty flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover torte in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This torte is best enjoyed at room temperature, so allow chilled slices to sit out for a bit before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Banana Almond Torte contains approximately 350 calories. This calorie count makes it a relatively indulgent dessert option, best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

This Banana Almond Torte is relatively high in carbohydrates, primarily due to the sugar and bananas used in the recipe. Each serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The carbohydrates come from simple sugars as well as the complex carbohydrates found in the matzah cake meal and bananas, providing a mix of quick and sustained energy.

Fats

The fats in this torte primarily come from the almonds and egg yolks, contributing to the dessert's rich flavor and moist texture. Each serving contains about 15 grams of fat, with a mix of monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and saturated fats. Almonds are a good source of healthy fats that can support heart health.

Proteins

Each serving of Banana Almond Torte provides approximately 8 grams of protein, coming from the eggs and almonds. This moderate amount of protein makes the torte a satisfying dessert option that can help to keep you feeling full.

Vitamins and minerals

This torte is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E from the almonds, potassium from the bananas, and various B vitamins from the eggs. These nutrients contribute to the overall nutritional profile of the dessert, making it not only delicious but also beneficial in a balanced diet.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs, nuts (almonds), and may contain gluten depending on the matzah cake meal used. It is important for individuals with food allergies or sensitivities to be aware of these ingredients.

Summary

Overall, the Banana Almond Torte is a dessert that offers a good balance of flavors and textures, along with a moderate amount of protein and healthy fats. However, it is relatively high in sugars and calories, making it an indulgence to be enjoyed occasionally.

Summary

The Banana Almond Torte is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of bananas with the richness of almonds, enhanced by the zest of citrus. With its moist texture and nuanced flavors, it's a sophisticated addition to any dessert table. While indulgent, it also offers nutritional benefits, making it a dessert that can be enjoyed on special occasions. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this torte is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, many years ago, when I stumbled upon the recipe for Banana Almond Torte. I was visiting my dear friend Margaret, who was known for her delicious baked goods. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most heavenly aroma of bananas and almonds.

Margaret was busy bustling around her kitchen, pulling out ingredients and mixing them together with such grace and precision. I watched in awe as she effortlessly whipped up this delectable dessert. When she finally pulled the torte out of the oven, I knew I had to have the recipe.

As I sat down at Margaret's kitchen table, savoring every bite of the Banana Almond Torte, I begged her to share the recipe with me. She smiled and handed me a well-worn recipe card, filled with her handwritten notes and tips. I knew that this recipe was something special, passed down through generations of bakers.

With the recipe card in hand, I returned home eager to recreate Margaret's masterpiece. I gathered all the ingredients and set to work, following her instructions to the letter. The smell of ripe bananas and toasted almonds filled my kitchen, just like Margaret's had.

As the torte baked in the oven, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. I knew that I had uncovered a hidden gem, a recipe that would become a staple in my own kitchen. When the torte finally emerged golden and fragrant, I knew that I had done Margaret proud.

Since that day, I have made Banana Almond Torte countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. I have shared it with friends and family, who all rave about its rich flavor and moist texture. It has become a signature dessert of mine, one that brings joy to all who taste it.

Over the years, I have added my own touches to the recipe, swapping in different nuts or adding a dash of cinnamon for extra warmth. Each time I bake it, I am transported back to that sunny day in Margaret's kitchen, where I first discovered the magic of this delectable dessert.

Now, as I pass on the recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you too will find joy in baking this Banana Almond Torte. May it bring you as much happiness as it has brought me over the years. And remember, the secret ingredient is always love. Happy baking!