Torta Caprese is a luxurious Italian dessert that perfectly balances decadence and simplicity. This flourless chocolate cake, made with almonds, offers a rich, moist texture and a deep chocolate flavor with a subtle nutty sweetness. Packed with essential nutrients, almonds provide vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats, while dark chocolate delivers antioxidants and mood-boosting benefits. However, it's important to enjoy this indulgence in moderation, as its richness comes with a high calorie and sugar content. Perfect for special occasions or as a treat, Torta Caprese is a timeless recipe that embodies the art of Italian baking. Discover the ultimate indulgence with this iconic dessert that satisfies both the palate and the soul.
Ingredients:
- 200g (7 oz) dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
- 150g (5.3 oz) unsalted butter
- 200g (7 oz) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 200g (7 oz) finely ground almonds (almond flour)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Alternatives to Ingredients:
- Replace unsalted butter of coconut oil.
- Use honey or coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar.
- For those with nut allergies, substitute almond flour with finely ground oat flour.
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate and unsalted butter together over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method), stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk the granulated sugar and eggs until pale and frothy. Stir in the melted chocolate mixture. Add the ground almonds, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, mixing until well combined.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly moist. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Enjoy your Torta Caprese with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of luxury!
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair the cake with a robust Italian espresso or a delicate black tea to balance the richness.
- For an extra indulgence, serve with a dollop of whipped cream, mascarpone, or a scoop of vanilla gelato.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1.Can this recipe be made vegan?
- Yes! Replace the eggs with flax or chia seeds. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency.
2.Can Torta Caprese be made without added sugar?
- Absolutely. Use unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas as natural sweeteners. Adjust the amount based on your desired level of sweetness.
3.How do I store the cake to keep it fresh?
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
4.Can I add other flavors like orange zest or coffee?
- Yes! Add 1-2 teaspoons of orange zest for a citrusy twist or 1 tablespoon of espresso powder for a rich, coffee-infused flavor.
5.How to make the cake lower in calories?
- Substitute butter with unsweetened applesauce and reduce the sugar by half. Opt for dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content to reduce added sugars.
6.Is this cake suitable for children?
- Yes, but you can adjust the sugar content or use natural sweeteners to make it healthier for kids.
Nutritional values
200g (7 oz) dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
- Calories: About 600 kcal
- Fat: 43g (including saturated fat)
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Protein: 7g
- Fiber: 12g
- Sugar: 25g
Benefits:
- Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which can support heart health.
- Contains iron, magnesium, and copper.
- Provides a rich, deep flavor.
150g (5.3 oz) unsalted butter
- Calories: About 717 kcal
- Fat: 81g (including saturated fat)
- Carbohydrates: 0.1g
- Protein: 0.9g
- Cholesterol: 215 mg
Benefits:
- Adds richness and a smooth texture to the dessert.
- Contains vitamins A, D, E, and K.
200g (7 oz) granulated sugar
- Calories: About 400 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 100g
Benefits:
- Provides sweetness and contributes to the texture of the dessert.
4 large eggs
- Calories: About 70 kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 186 mg
Benefits:
- Adds structure and richness to the dessert.
- Provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamins B12 and D.
200g (7 oz) finely ground almonds (almond flour)
- Calories: About 575 kcal
- Fat: 50g (including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats)
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 21g
- Fiber: 10g
Benefits:
- Provides healthy fats and protein.
- Adds a rich, nutty flavor and moist texture to the dessert.
- Contains vitamin E, magnesium, and antioxidants.
1 tsp vanilla extract
- Calories: About 12 kcal
Benefits:
- Adds flavor and aroma.
- Contains small amounts of antioxidants.
A pinch of salt
- Sodium: About 5 mg (negligible)
Benefits:
- Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
- Calories: About 30 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 7g
Benefits:
- Adds a decorative touch and additional sweetness.
This recipe combines rich dark chocolate, creamy butter, and sweet sugar with the nutty flavor of almond flour, creating a decadent dessert. The eggs provide structure and richness, while vanilla extract and a pinch of salt enhance the overall flavor profile. Optional powdered sugar adds a finishing touch for presentation.
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