Torta Sbrisolona - Traditional Italian Almond Crumble Cake

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) almond flour 2 cups (240g) almond flour
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (225g) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes 1 cup (225g) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• 1 large egg 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup (75g) whole almonds, roughly chopped 1/2 cup (75g) whole almonds, roughly chopped

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 kJ
• Fat: 22g (Saturated Fat: 8g)
• Carbohydrates: 28g (Sugar: 16g)
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, lemon zest, and salt. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. 4.
   In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg. Add the beaten egg to the crumb mixture and mix until the dough comes together.
5. 5.
   Transfer the dough to the prepared cake pan and press it evenly into the bottom of the pan.
6. 6.
   Sprinkle the chopped almonds over the top of the dough, gently pressing them into the surface.
7. 7.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan before removing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almond flour — Make sure to use finely ground almond flour for the best texture in the cake.
• Cold butter — It's important to use cold butter and cut it into small cubes to achieve the desired crumbly texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough.
• Serve Torta Sbrisolona with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
• Experiment with different types of nuts, such as hazelnuts or pistachios, for a unique twist.
• Enjoy a slice of Torta Sbrisolona with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of sweet dessert wine.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve Torta Sbrisolona at room temperature, either as a standalone dessert or accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla gelato.

Presentation advice

Present the Torta Sbrisolona on a rustic wooden platter or a vintage cake stand to enhance its homemade charm. Sprinkle some powdered sugar on top and garnish with a few whole almonds for an inviting appearance.