Chocolate Almond Torte

choc alm torte, originally uploaded by Kim De.

I have alluded to this amazing torte in the past. Now it is time for you to try it!

If you like dark and chocolaty, if you like moist, if you like a hint of citrus in your chocolate, this is for you. Though easy to make, it is an impressive dessert to serve to guests.

My only caution is this: if you don't like orange with chocolate, or don't like it to be strong, leave it out of only use the zest of half of the fruit. It did have a strong orange flavor.

Otherwise, perfection!

Chocolate-Almond Torte (Adapted from Food Network Magazine)

1 1/4 cups blanched, sliced almonds
12 tablespoons unsalted butter, diced, plus more for greasing
8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs plus 3 egg yolks
Grated zest of 1 orange
1 tablespoon dark rum
1/2 teaspoon salt
Confectioners' sugar, for garnish
Whipped cream, for garnish (optional)


Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Toast the almonds on a baking sheet until lightly golden, 6 to 7 minutes. Cool slightly, then pulse in a food processor until finely ground, but not pasty.

Melt 12 tablespoons butter and the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (do not let the bowl touch the water). Stir until the chocolate is smooth, then remove from the heat and cool slightly. Grease the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan with butter and coat with the breadcrumbs, tapping out the excess.

Combine the eggs and yolks and the sugar in a stand mixer and beat with the paddle attachment on medium-high until thick and pale, about 3 minutes. Add the orange zest, rum and salt, then beat in the melted chocolate until smooth. Mix in the ground almonds until just combined.

Spread the batter in the prepared pan and bake until the top is firm and cracked (a toothpick inserted into the cake will be fudgy), 35 to 40 minutes. Cool on a rack 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edge of the pan and remove the ring. Serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with confectioners' sugar and whipped cream, if desired.