Linzer Torte

Linzer Torte Recipe from Austria with Almonds and Raspberry Fruit Spread

Region / culture: Austria | Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Linzer Torte is a classic Austrian dessert that is known for its delicious combination of buttery crust, fruity filling, and nutty flavor. This traditional dessert is perfect for any special occasion or holiday celebration.

History

The Linzer Torte is said to have originated in the city of Linz, Austria, dating back to the 17th century. It is one of the oldest known tarts in the world and is often associated with Christmas and other festive occasions. The recipe has been passed down through generations and has become a beloved dessert in many households.

Ingredients

0.25 cup butter, softened
2 egg yolks
2 tbsp apple juice concentrate
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup flour
0.5 tsp baking powder
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground cinnamon
0.13 tsp ground allspice
1.5 cup ground almonds or hazelnuts
10 oz (283 g) raspberry fruit spread

How to prepare

Use blanched almonds or hazelnuts.
Beat the butter in a large bowl until it becomes light and fluffy.
Blend in the egg yolks, juice concentrate, and vanilla.
Combine the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and allspice; mix well.
Stir in the almonds.
Gradually add the mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until it is well-blended.
Spread 1.5 cups of the batter evenly onto the bottom of a 10" tart pan with a removable bottom or a 10" spring-form pan.
Spread the fruit evenly over the batter, leaving a 1" border around the edge.
Spoon the remaining batter into a pastry bag fitted with a 0.5" plain or star tip.
Pipe the batter in a lattice design over the fruit spread.
Chill for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Bake the tart for 35 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the fruit spread is bubbly.
Cool completely on a wire rack.
Serve at room temperature.

Variations

Try using different types of fruit spreads, such as raspberry or apricot, for a unique flavor twist.
Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top of the tart before serving for a decorative touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use blanched almonds or hazelnuts for the best texture and flavor.

- Be sure to chill the batter before piping it onto the tart to ensure a neat lattice design.

- Serve the Linzer Torte at room temperature for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Linzer Torte with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to beat the butter until light and fluffy for a tender crust.

- Pipe the lattice design onto the tart for a professional-looking finish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use almonds instead of hazelnuts for a slightly different flavor profile.

- Substitute the apple juice concentrate with orange juice for a citrusy twist.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Linzer Torte up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Linzer Torte on a decorative platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Linzer Torte with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Linzer Torte in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Linzer Torte contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Linzer Torte contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Linzer Torte contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Linzer Torte contains approximately 4 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Linzer Torte is a good source of Vitamin E, magnesium, and iron.

Alergens

Linzer Torte contains nuts and eggs, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Linzer Torte is a delicious dessert that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Linzer Torte is a classic Austrian dessert that is perfect for any special occasion. With its buttery crust, fruity filling, and nutty flavor, this traditional tart is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy a slice of this delicious dessert with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Helga in her quaint little cottage nestled in the Austrian countryside. Helga was known among our circle of friends for her incredible baking skills, and she had promised to teach me how to make one of her most prized recipes - the famous Linzer Torte.

As we stood in her cozy kitchen, surrounded by the intoxicating aroma of cinnamon and almonds, Helga handed me a weathered old recipe card that had been passed down through generations of her family. The card was stained and faded, a testament to the many years of love and care that had gone into making this delectable dessert.

"This, my dear, is the secret to the perfect Linzer Torte," Helga said with a twinkle in her eye. "It's a recipe that has been in my family for centuries, and now I am passing it on to you."

I eagerly studied the ingredients and instructions, taking in every detail as Helga patiently guided me through each step of the process. From mixing the butter and sugar to rolling out the delicate dough and carefully layering it with raspberry jam, I followed her every move with the utmost concentration.

As the torte baked in the oven, filling the air with its irresistible scent, Helga regaled me with tales of how the recipe had come to be a cherished tradition in her family. She spoke of her great-grandmother, who had learned to make the torte from a dear friend who had traveled to Austria from Hungary many years ago.

According to family lore, the recipe had been passed down through the generations, each baker adding their own unique touch to the classic dessert. Helga herself had spent countless hours perfecting the recipe, experimenting with different types of nuts and spices until she had created a version that was truly her own.

Finally, the torte emerged from the oven, its golden crust glistening with a dusting of powdered sugar. I couldn't wait to sink my teeth into the rich, buttery pastry and tangy raspberry filling that Helga had so skillfully crafted.

As we sat down to enjoy our creation, Helga smiled at me warmly, her eyes twinkling with pride. "I have no doubt that you will carry on the tradition of making Linzer Torte with as much love and care as I have," she said.

And she was right. From that day on, I became known among my family and friends as the Linzer Torte expert, delighting everyone with my delicious creations and sharing the cherished recipe with anyone who asked.

To this day, whenever I bake a Linzer Torte, I think back to that warm summer day in Helga's kitchen and the moment when I first laid eyes on the recipe that would become a beloved tradition in my own family. The memories of that day and the time spent with my dear friend will always hold a special place in my heart, just like the timeless recipe for Linzer Torte that she so generously shared with me.