If you’re searching for a delightful dessert to bring a taste of Italy to your Christmas table, look no further than the decadent Torta Sbrisolona Crumbly Almond Cake. This traditional Italian dessert is a delightful treat, boasting a tender crumbly texture and a rich almond flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this cake is sure to become a festive favorite in your household during the holiday season.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into chunks
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Sliced almonds for topping
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, almond flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix them together until well combined.
3. Add the cold butter chunks to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some larger chunks.
4. In a small bowl, beat the egg with the vanilla extract and lemon zest until well combined.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the flour and butter mixture. Use a fork to combine everything until the dough starts to come together. It will be crumbly, and that’s exactly what you want.
6. Transfer the crumbly dough into the prepared cake pan. Press it down gently with your hands or the back of a spoon to form an even layer.
7. Sprinkle sliced almonds over the top of the cake, gently pressing them into the dough.
8. Bake the Torta Sbrisolona in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
9. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, slice the cake into wedges and serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra festive touch.
Enjoy this Torta Sbrisolona Crumbly Almond Cake with friends and family during the holiday season, or wrap up slices as gifts for loved ones. The rich almond flavor and crumbly texture make it a perfect addition to your Christmas dessert spread. This simple yet elegant Italian treat is sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire. Savor the flavors of Italy with every delicious bite of this delightful cake.
