Almond Mascarpone Torte – Elegant Layers of Old-World Indulgence

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• Optional: sliced almonds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch cake pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a smooth batter forms.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
7. For the mascarpone layer, beat the mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar and almond extract until smooth and creamy.
8. Spread the mascarpone mixture evenly over the cooled torte.
9. Garnish with sliced almonds if desired.
10. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving for best texture and flavor.