In Austria and other parts of Europe, a torte is simply a multi-layered cake. But far from just a difference of definition, a chocolate torte is a delightful alternative to a traditional American dish.
American cakes are light, sturdy and rise in the middle. A chocolate torte will be heavier and, after cooling off, actually sink in the middle. While this might be considered a cooking failure in other circumstances, here it signals a dessert done to perfection.
Do you need to an spectacular dessert for unexpected entertaining? Try this one. Although we prefer to cook from scratch than using packages, well, sometimes you must. We have not been able to get similar texture and flavorful results other way without spending too long in the kitchen. Once in a while is not going to kill you and you have an astounding dessert to serve your guests.
The recipe for Christmas pudding is often a tradition in the family, passed down from one generation to the other. If that is not your case, this recipe will live up to traditional Christmas expectations.
The best recipe I know for sponge cake is the traditional same quantities of everything, but using heavy cream or whipping cream instead of butter. The cake comes out very light and airy. Using a food processor makes the mixture even more so.
