Torta Di Mandorle Almond Christmas Cake

If you’re looking to add a touch of Italian flair to your holiday dessert spread, look no further than this delightful Torta Di Mandorle – Almond Christmas Cake. Infused with the sweet aroma of almonds and the warmth of Christmas spices, this traditional Italian treat is sure to become a festive favorite in your home. The moist and tender crumb will have your guests coming back for more, making it a perfect ending to any holiday meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup of almond flour
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder
– ½ teaspoon of salt
– ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– ½ cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– ½ cup of milk
– ½ cup of sliced almonds, toasted
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the toasted sliced almonds over the top.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Once cooled, dust the top of the Almond Christmas Cake with powdered sugar for a snowy finish.

Enjoy a slice of this Torta Di Mandorle with a cup of hot cocoa or a scoop of vanilla gelato for a truly indulgent holiday treat. Its nutty flavor and subtle sweetness are sure to evoke the spirit of the season and bring joy to all who taste it. Embrace the Italian tradition and add this Almond Christmas Cake to your festive baking repertoire this year.