Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- 3 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Electric mixer
- Large skillet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add in the salt, vanilla extract, and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add in the flour, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in the mascarpone cheese until evenly distributed.
6. Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the torta comes out clean.
8. While the torta is baking, prepare the caramelized apples. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
9. Add in the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, stirring to combine.
10. Cook the apples, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.
11. Once the torta is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
12. Top the torta with the caramelized apples, spreading them out evenly.
13. Serve the mascarpone torta warm or at room temperature.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
- 8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 370
- Fat: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Mascarpone cheese can be substituted with cream cheese or ricotta cheese.
- Apples can be substituted with pears or peaches.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for added texture.
- Top the torta with whipped cream or ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to let the torta cool for at least 10 minutes before adding the caramelized apples to prevent them from sliding off.
- To make the torta gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover torta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the torta, place it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the torta on a cake stand or platter for an elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
- Garnish the torta with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Pairings:
- Serve the mascarpone torta with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy dessert.
Suggested side dishes:
- Pair the torta with a side of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious dessert.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the torta is browning too quickly, cover it with foil and continue baking until it is fully cooked.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to wash and peel the apples before slicing them to prevent any contamination.
Food history:
- Mascarpone cheese is a soft, creamy cheese that originated in the Lombardy region of Italy.
Flavor profiles:
- The mascarpone torta has a rich, buttery flavor that is complemented by the sweet and tangy caramelized apples.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the mascarpone torta as a dessert after a hearty meal, or as a sweet treat with a cup of tea or coffee.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Sweet, Rich, Caramelized, Fruity, Creamy