Orange-Mascarpone Torta with Chocolate Crust Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate wafer crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz. mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 tbsp. orange zest
- 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt

Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Electric mixer
- Zester

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate wafer crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix well.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese and 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
6. Mix in the orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, and salt.
7. Pour the mixture into the cooled crust.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the center is set.
9. Let the torta cool to room temperature before removing it from the pan.
10. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 490
Fat: 33g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 170mg
Sodium: 230mg
Carbohydrates: 42g
Sugar: 34g
Protein: 8g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Graham cracker crumbs can be used instead of chocolate wafer crumbs.
- Cream cheese can be substituted for mascarpone cheese.
- Lemon juice and zest can be used instead of orange juice and zest.

Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of chopped dark chocolate to the filling for a chocolate-orange twist.
- Top with whipped cream and fresh berries.

Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to let the torta cool completely before removing it from the pan to prevent it from breaking.
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth filling.
- Zest the orange before juicing to make it easier.

Storage instructions:
Store the torta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Serve chilled.

Presentation ideas:
Serve on a decorative cake stand.

Garnishes:
Top with whipped cream and orange slices.

Pairings:
Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.

Suggested side dishes:
Fresh fruit salad or a green salad.

Troubleshooting advice:
If the torta cracks, cover it with whipped cream or fruit to hide the imperfection.

Food safety advice:
Be sure to use pasteurized eggs to prevent salmonella.

Food history:
Mascarpone cheese originated in the Lombardy region of Italy.

Flavor profiles:
The torta has a rich and creamy orange flavor with a chocolate crust.

Serving suggestions:
Serve as a dessert after a dinner party.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Sweet, Tangy, Creamy, Chocolatey, Citrusy