Dreamy Snowdrift Torte

Dreamy Snowdrift Torte Recipe - Almond Cream Cheese Cake

Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

The Dreamy Snowdrift Torte is a decadent and elegant dessert that is sure to impress any guest. With layers of fluffy cake, creamy white chocolate ganache, almond slices, and sweetened whipped cream, this torte is a showstopper at any gathering.

History

The Dreamy Snowdrift Torte has been a favorite dessert for special occasions and holidays for many years. The combination of white chocolate, almonds, and whipped cream creates a rich and indulgent treat that is perfect for celebrating with loved ones.

Ingredients

Batter

0.75 stick of real butter, softened
0.75 cup of sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp of vanilla extract
0.5 tsp of almond flavoring
0.67 cup of half and half
1.5 cups of cake flour
1.5 tsp of baking powder

Filling Layer #1 (white chocolate Ganache)

1 bag of 12 oz (340 g) white baking morsels
0.33 cup of cream

Filling Layer #2

12 oz (340 g) of sliced almonds

Filling Layer #3

1 package of 8 oz (227 g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup of confectioners sugar
0.5 tsp of almond flavoring

Filling Layer #4 (and topping)

2 cups of heavy (whipping) cream, chilled
1 cup of confectioners sugar
1 tbsp of white vanilla

How to prepare

Batter

Cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, stirring well after each addition. Then add the vanilla and almond flavor.
Continue to cream for about 2 minutes.
In a separate bowl, mix the flour and baking powder.
Add half of the half and half and half of the flour mixture to the butter/sugar mixture and mix well.
Add the remaining half and half and flour mixture and mix well.
Grease and lightly dust with flour 4, 8-inch cake pans, preferably stainless steel for even cooking.
Fill each pan with about a quarter of the batter and carefully shake each pan back and forth until the batter is evenly distributed.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 12–15 minutes, until just done.
DO NOT OVERCOOK.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool, lightly covered to prevent drying.

Filling Layer #1

Place the morsels in a microwaveable bowl and pour the cream over them.
Melt in the microwave for 20 seconds at a time, stirring after each 20-second interval, until smooth.

Filling Layer #3

Mix the ingredients well, until smooth, in a medium bowl.

Filling Layer #4

Beat the cream on high for 3 minutes, until soft peaks start to form, in a large glass bowl.
Add the sugar and vanilla and continue to beat with a mixer for another 2–5 minutes, until it forms stiff peaks.

To Assemble

Note: All steps can be done the day ahead, reserving final assembly for 2 hours before serving.
Remove the cooled cake layers from the pans and place them on wire racks, two to a rack.
Spread each cake with white chocolate ganache, including the sides (a scraper or butter knife works well on the sides).
While the ganache is still soft, cover the top only with a layer of thinly sliced almonds, pressing them slightly into the ganache.
Place in the freezer for 10–20 minutes to set the ganache.
Remove from the freezer and spread the cream cheese layer over the almonds.
Refrigerate for at least half an hour (can be refrigerated, covered, for 24 hours).
The final assembly can be done 2 hours before serving.
To assemble, place a cake on a serving plate and spread a half-inch or thicker layer of the chilled, sweetened whipped cream over the top, creating thick scallops at the very edge.
Place the second cake layer on top and continue until all 4 cake layers are stacked high.
Spoon the remaining whipped cream onto the top of the torte and, using a spoon, create deep valleys and peaks in the cream.
Sprinkle with any combination of garnishes listed above.

Garnish

Large, sparkling, bake and melt-proof white sugar, white, gold or silver edible glitter.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
Serve chilled with orange-tinged or spiced hot chocolate and gourmet coffees.

Variations

Substitute the almonds with toasted coconut for a tropical twist.
Add a layer of raspberry jam between the cake layers for a fruity addition.
Drizzle the top of the torte with melted dark chocolate for a decadent finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy to ensure a light and airy cake.

- When melting the white chocolate for the ganache, be sure to do so in short intervals in the microwave and stir well to prevent burning.

- When assembling the torte, be sure to chill the layers in between to ensure a stable and beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Dreamy Snowdrift Torte chilled with a side of orange-tinged or spiced hot chocolate and gourmet coffees for a luxurious dessert experience.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to evenly distribute the batter in the cake pans for even baking.

- Chill the layers in between assembling to ensure a stable and beautiful presentation.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use regular milk instead of half and half in the batter.

- You can use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for the ganache.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cake layers, ganache, and cream cheese filling ahead of time and assemble the torte 2 hours before serving for a stress-free dessert option.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Dreamy Snowdrift Torte with sparkling white sugar, edible glitter, or fresh berries for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Dreamy Snowdrift Torte with a sweet dessert wine or a cup of hot tea for a delightful end to a meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover torte in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 420 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 35g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 28g per serving

Saturated Fat: 16g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 6g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Calcium: 80mg per serving

Iron: 1mg per serving

Alergens

Contains: Dairy, Eggs, Nuts

Summary

The Dreamy Snowdrift Torte is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in fats and carbohydrates. It is a treat best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

The Dreamy Snowdrift Torte is a luxurious and indulgent dessert that is perfect for special occasions and celebrations. With layers of fluffy cake, creamy white chocolate ganache, almond slices, and sweetened whipped cream, this torte is sure to impress any guest.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was a cold winter's day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. The pages were yellowed with age, and the binding was cracked and worn from years of use. As I turned the pages, I stumbled across a recipe for Dreamy Snowdrift Torte. The name alone conjured up images of light and fluffy clouds, and I knew I had to try making it.

I read over the ingredients list and instructions carefully, taking note of each step. The recipe called for eggs, sugar, flour, and vanilla extract, among other things. It seemed like a simple enough dessert to make, but there was something about it that intrigued me. I could almost taste the sweetness of the whipped cream filling and the lightness of the meringue topping.

I decided to make the torte that same evening. I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. I cracked the eggs, separated the yolks from the whites, and beat them until they formed stiff peaks. I added in the sugar and vanilla, folding them gently into the egg whites. The mixture was light and airy, just like I had imagined.

As I poured the batter into the cake pan and placed it in the oven, I could hardly contain my excitement. I watched through the oven window as the torte rose and turned a golden brown. The scent of vanilla and sugar filled the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the torte was done.

I let it cool on the counter before slicing into it. The first bite was like a taste of heaven. The whipped cream filling was light and creamy, and the meringue topping melted in my mouth. The flavors were delicate and sweet, just as I had imagined. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my repertoire.

Over the years, I made the Dreamy Snowdrift Torte for special occasions and gatherings. It became a family favorite, and I was always met with oohs and aahs whenever I served it. People would ask me for the recipe, and I would gladly share it with them, passing on the tradition of this delicious dessert.

I learned that the recipe for the torte had been handed down through generations in my family. It originated from my great-grandmother, who had made it for her own family in the early 1900s. She had learned it from a neighbor who had immigrated from Europe and brought the recipe with her. It was a special treat that was reserved for holidays and celebrations, and it had been cherished ever since.

As I continued to make the torte, I added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different flavor combinations and variations. I tried adding fresh berries to the whipped cream filling, or drizzling chocolate sauce over the top. Each time, the torte turned out delicious, and I was constantly amazed at how versatile the recipe was.

I have passed down the recipe for the Dreamy Snowdrift Torte to my own grandchildren now. I have shown them how to make it, guiding them through each step just as my grandmother had done for me. It has become a tradition in our family, a way to connect with our past and celebrate our heritage.

Whenever I make the torte now, I am filled with a sense of nostalgia and gratitude. It reminds me of my grandmother and all the memories we shared in the kitchen. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting connections. And it is a testament to the enduring legacy of a simple recipe that has brought so much joy to so many.