Portuguese Almond Torta de Azeitão with Lemon Zest

Name: Portuguese Almond Torta de Azeitão with Lemon Zest
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Dessert
Ingredients: 1 cup raw almonds, toasted and finely ground; 1 cup granulated sugar; 6 large eggs, yolks and whites separated; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; Zest of 2 large lemons; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup sugar; ¼ cup water; Powdered sugar for dusting

A traditional Portuguese almond tart enriched with the zest of fresh lemons.

Delight in the classic taste of Portugal with this almond torta, made lighter with a hint of lemon zest. Perfect for any dessert table or afternoon tea.

1 h 30 min
8
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Almond Torta

1 cup raw almonds, toasted and finely ground

1 cup granulated sugar

6 large eggs, yolks and whites separated

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Lemon Zest Infusion

Zest of 2 large lemons

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

¼ teaspoon salt

For the Sugar Syrup (optional)

½ cup sugar

¼ cup water

For the Dusting (optional)

Powdered sugar for dusting

Preparation

Preparing the Almond Torta

Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare Pan

Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line with parchment paper.

Mix Yolks

Beat the egg yolks with sugar until thick and pale.

Add Flavor

Mix in vanilla and ground almonds.

Chef’s Tip: Toasting the almonds before grinding them enhances their natural nutty flavor.

Infusing the Lemon Zest

Combine Zest Mixture

Combine lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt in a small bowl.

Incorporate Zest

Gently fold into the almond mixture.

Whip Egg Whites

Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form, then fold into the batter.

Ensure no yolk is mixed with the whites to achieve stiff peaks. Pro Tip: Chill the egg beaters and bowl to help egg whites reach peaks faster.

Cooking Process

Baking

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Syrup Preparation

If using, bring sugar and water to a boil, then simmer until thickened. Cool slightly before using.

Plating & Serving