Introduction:
Get ready to infuse your home with the delightful scents of Italy this holiday season with our beloved Torta Di Natale Christmas Cake recipe. This traditional Italian dessert is a delightful combination of rich flavors like citrus, nuts, and spice, making it the perfect treat to accompany your festive celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to add a touch of Italian charm to your holiday table, this Christmas cake will surely impress your family and friends.
Torta Di Natale Christmas Cake
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 cup of almond flour
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– Zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1/2 cup of chopped mixed candied fruits (citron, orange peel, cherries)
– 1/2 cup of chopped almonds
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter. Dust the pan with some flour and tap out any excess.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, almond flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the orange zest, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next one.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in the candied fruits and chopped almonds gently into the batter until evenly distributed.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake the Torta Di Natale Christmas Cake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
Enjoy the delightful flavors and aromas of this Torta Di Natale Christmas Cake with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of dessert wine. This Italian holiday treat is perfect for sharing with loved ones or giving as a thoughtful homemade gift. Embrace the spirit of the season with this charming and delicious Christmas cake straight from the heart of Italy. Happy baking and buon Natale!
