Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 cup of mascarpone cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 4 ounces of semisweet chocolate chips
Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the mascarpone cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.
7. Bake the torta for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the torta cool completely in the pan before removing the sides.
9. To make the chocolate ganache, heat the heavy cream in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl until it starts to simmer.
10. Remove the cream from the heat and add the chocolate chips. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth.
11. Pour the ganache over the cooled torta and spread it evenly with a spatula.
12. Let the ganache set for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
- 8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 365
- Fat: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of mascarpone cheese, you can use cream cheese or ricotta cheese.
- You can use bittersweet or dark chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate chips for the ganache.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, to the batter for added texture.
- Top the ganache with fresh berries or whipped cream for a fruity twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter and mascarpone cheese are at room temperature before mixing with the other ingredients.
- Don't overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough torta.
- Let the torta cool completely before adding the ganache to prevent it from melting.
Storage instructions:
- Store the torta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the torta, place it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
- Dust the top of the torta with cocoa powder or powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
- Serve the torta on a cake stand or platter for an elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
- Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries
- Whipped cream
- Chopped nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts
Pairings:
- Coffee or espresso
- Red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Vanilla ice cream
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the torta is too dry, try adding a tablespoon of milk to the batter.
- If the ganache is too thick, add a tablespoon of hot water to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use pasteurized eggs to avoid the risk of salmonella.
- Store the torta in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
- Mascarpone cheese is a traditional Italian cheese that originated in the Lombardy region of Italy.
- Chocolate ganache is a French creation that was first used as a filling for truffles.
Flavor profiles:
- The torta has a rich, buttery flavor with a subtle tang from the mascarpone cheese.
- The chocolate ganache is smooth and creamy with a bittersweet chocolate flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the torta as a dessert after a dinner party or special occasion.
- Enjoy a slice of torta with a cup of coffee or tea for a decadent afternoon treat.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Rich, Creamy, Chocolatey, Sweet, Decadent