If you’re looking to add Italian charm and deliciousness to your Christmas dessert table, Torta Di Castagne, or Chestnut Flour Cake, is the perfect choice. This traditional Italian treat is not only a delight to the taste buds but also brings a warm, cozy aroma to your home during the holiday season. Made with flavorful chestnut flour, this cake captures the essence of festive baking in Italy. Let’s dive into the recipe to create a memorable dessert for your family and friends.
**Torta Di Castagne Chestnut Flour Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups chestnut flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup milk
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Dust the pan lightly with flour and tap out any excess.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the chestnut flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set this dry mixture aside.
3. In a separate larger mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the cake light and tender.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cake is golden brown on top.
8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with confectioners’ sugar for a snowy finish before slicing and serving. This cake can be enjoyed on its own or accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla gelato for an extra touch of indulgence.
**This Torta Di Castagne, with its rich nutty flavor and moist crumb, is sure to become a beloved addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Whether you serve it at a festive gathering or enjoy a quiet moment with a slice and a cup of hot cocoa, this Italian Chestnut Flour Cake embodies the warmth and joy of the season. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to create a slice of Italian Christmas magic in your own kitchen!**
