Chocolate Almond Torte

Chocolate Almond Torte Recipe - Delicious and Flavorful Dessert

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 18 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Chocolate Almond Torte is a decadent and rich dessert that combines the flavors of chocolate and almonds in a delicious cake. This recipe features layers of moist chocolate cake filled with a cherry filling and topped with a chocolate glaze. It is the perfect dessert for any special occasion or celebration.

History

The Chocolate Almond Torte is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for many years. The combination of chocolate and almonds has long been a popular flavor pairing in desserts, and this torte is a perfect example of that. The addition of a cherry filling adds a sweet and fruity element to the rich chocolate cake, making it a truly indulgent treat.

Ingredients

4 eggs, separated
0.75 cup sugar, divided
0.75 cup ground blanched almonds
0.33 cup all-purpose flour
0.33 cup HERSHEY'S cocoa
0.5 tsp baking soda
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 cup water
1 tsp vanilla extract
0.25 tsp almond extract
cherry filling (recipe follows)
chocolate glaze (recipe follows)
sliced almonds, maraschino cherries or candied cherries, halved

How to prepare

Heat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Grease the bottoms of three 8-inch round baking pans.
Line the bottoms with wax paper and grease the paper.
Beat the egg yolks on medium speed of the mixer for 3 minutes in a medium bowl.
Gradually add 0.5 cup of sugar and continue beating for 2 minutes.
Stir together almonds, flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt; add alternately with water to the egg yolk mixture, beating on low speed just until blended.
Stir in vanilla and almond extract.
Beat the egg whites in a large bowl until foamy; gradually add the remaining 0.25 cup of sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
Fold a small amount of beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture; gently fold the chocolate mixture into the remaining whites just until blended.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
Bake for 16 to 18 minutes or until the top springs back when touched lightly in the center.
Cool for 10 minutes; remove from pans to wire racks.
Cool completely.
Prepare the Cherry Filling.
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread half of the filling over the top.
Repeat, ending with a plain layer on top.
Prepare the chocolate glaze and spread it on top of the cake, allowing the glaze to run down the sides.
Garnish with almonds and cherry halves.
Refrigerate until the glaze is set.
Cover and refrigerate any leftover torte.

Cherry Filling

1 cup (0.5 pt (237 ml)) of cold whipping cream
0.25 cup of powdered sugar
1-0.5 tsp of kirsch (cherry brandy) or 0.25 tsp of almond extract
0.33 cup of chopped red candied cherries
Beat the whipping cream, powdered sugar, and brandy until stiff; fold in the cherries.
About 2 cups of filling.

Chocolate Glaze

1 tbsp of butter or margarine
2 tbsp of HERSHEY'S cocoa
2 tbsp of water
1 cup of powdered sugar
0.25 tsp of vanilla extract
Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat; add cocoa and water, stirring constantly until slightly thickened.
Remove from heat; gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating with a whisk until smooth and of spreading consistency.
Add additional water, 0.5 tsp at a time, if needed.
About 0.75 cup of glaze.

Variations

Substitute the cherry filling with raspberry or strawberry filling for a different flavor combination.
Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the cake batter for added texture and flavor.
Drizzle the top of the torte with caramel or chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to properly grease and line your baking pans to ensure that the cake layers do not stick.

- When folding the egg whites into the chocolate mixture, be gentle to avoid deflating the egg whites and losing the light and airy texture of the cake.

- Allow the chocolate glaze to cool slightly before spreading it on the cake to prevent it from running off the sides.

- Refrigerate the torte before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the glaze to set.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of Chocolate Almond Torte with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the egg whites until stiff peaks form is essential for creating a light and airy cake texture.

- Folding the egg whites into the chocolate mixture gently helps to maintain the cake's fluffy consistency.

- Allowing the cake to cool completely before assembling and decorating ensures that the layers stay intact.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond flour instead of ground almonds for a more intense almond flavor.

- Substitute almond extract with vanilla extract if you prefer a milder almond taste.

- Replace the cherry filling with your favorite fruit preserves or compote for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The Chocolate Almond Torte can be assembled and refrigerated a day in advance. Simply cover the torte with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the top of the Chocolate Almond Torte with fresh cherries, chocolate shavings, or edible flowers for a beautiful and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the Chocolate Almond Torte with a glass of dessert wine, such as a port or sherry, for a perfect pairing that complements the rich flavors of the cake.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Chocolate Almond Torte in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, allow the torte to come to room temperature or microwave individual slices for a few seconds until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chocolate Almond Torte contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chocolate Almond Torte contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chocolate Almond Torte contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chocolate Almond Torte contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chocolate Almond Torte is a good source of iron and calcium, providing essential nutrients for overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs, almonds, and dairy, which may be allergens for some individuals. Please be mindful of any food allergies when preparing and serving this dessert.

Summary

Chocolate Almond Torte is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is a delicious treat that should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Chocolate Almond Torte is a luxurious and indulgent dessert that combines the flavors of chocolate, almonds, and cherries in a rich and moist cake. This recipe is perfect for special occasions and celebrations, and is sure to impress your guests with its decadent taste and elegant presentation. Enjoy a slice of this delicious torte with a cup of coffee or tea for a truly delightful dessert experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old wooden chest in my grandmother's attic. I loved exploring the treasures hidden away in that chest - old photographs, letters, and recipe cards passed down through generations.

As I sifted through the yellowed papers, my eyes landed on a small, tattered card with faded writing. The title read "Chocolate Almond Torte". Intrigued, I carefully unfolded the card and read the ingredients and instructions. It was a simple yet decadent dessert, featuring rich chocolate and crunchy almonds. I knew I had to try making it.

I showed the recipe to my grandmother, hoping she could shed some light on its origins. She smiled warmly and told me that the recipe had been passed down from her own mother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years ago. She recalled the first time she had made the torte, how the aroma of chocolate and almonds had filled the kitchen, and how it had quickly become a family favorite.

Inspired by her stories, I set out to make the Chocolate Almond Torte myself. I gathered the ingredients - butter, sugar, eggs, chocolate, ground almonds, and a splash of almond extract - and got to work. The process was simple yet meticulous, requiring patience and attention to detail. I melted the chocolate with butter, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy, and folded in the ground almonds and almond extract.

As the torte baked in the oven, the sweet scent of chocolate and almonds wafted through the house, filling me with anticipation. When the timer finally beeped, I carefully removed the torte from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. The rich, dark cake glistened with a glossy sheen, and I couldn't resist cutting into it while it was still warm.

The first bite was pure bliss. The chocolate was velvety and rich, the almonds added a delightful crunch, and the hint of almond extract lingered on my tongue. I savored every morsel, feeling a sense of accomplishment and connection to my ancestors.

Over the years, I made the Chocolate Almond Torte countless times, each batch just as delicious as the last. I shared the recipe with friends and family, who marveled at its simplicity and elegance. It became a staple at holiday gatherings and special occasions, a reminder of the love and tradition that had been passed down through generations.

As I look back on that fateful day in my grandmother's attic, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of this recipe. It has brought joy and comfort to so many, a taste of history and heritage in every bite. And as I pass it down to my own children and grandchildren, I know that the tradition will live on, cherished and celebrated for years to come.