Ingredients

1 1/2 cups almond paste , tightly packed
6 tablespoons half-and-half cream
3/4 cup butter , softened
1 cup sugar
10 eggs , separated
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup cake flour
3/4 cup cornstarch
7 ounces apricot jam , divided warmed
3 ounces seedless raspberry preserves , warmed
1 cup slivered almonds , coarsely chopped . or 1 cup your favorite nuts
5 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon dark rum
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 2 tablespoons honey or 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
5 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
Baum Torte-Baum Kuchen, also known as German Tree Cake, is a traditional German dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. This classic almond cake is named after its resemblance to the growth rings of a tree when sliced, thanks to its numerous thin layers. Each layer is coated with apricot jam and raspberry preserves and topped with chopped nuts and chocolate glaze, making it a decadent and indulgent dessert that's perfect for special occasions like weddings and holidays.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
2.In a mixing bowl, combine almond paste and half-and-half cream until smooth.
3.In a separate mixing bowl, beat butter with sugar until light and fluffy.
4.Gradually mix in egg yolks and vanilla extract to form a smooth mixture.
5.Stir in almond paste mixture to combine.
6.In a separate mixing bowl, sift together cake flour and cornstarch.
7.Gradually mix in flour mixture with the butter mixture, alternating with the egg whites, until a smooth batter forms.
8.Grease 9-inch round cake pans with vegetable oil spray and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
9.Layer the bottom of each prepared pan with a thin layer of apricot jam and raspberry preserves.
10.Pour 1/4 of the cake batter into each prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
11.Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
12.Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes in pans before removing to cool completely on wire racks.
13.Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave.
14.Add in butter, rum, vanilla extract, and honey.
15.Spread the mixture over each cooled cake layer, spreading chopped nuts over the top of each.
16.Stack the cake layers on top of one another, spreading remaining apricot jam between each layer for added sweetness.
17.Toast the chopped nuts in a preheated oven for 5-7 minutes at 350°F (177°C), stirring occasionally.
18.Sprinkle the toasted nuts over the top of the cake and serve.

PROS

This multilayered cake boasts a rich and nutty flavor that’s perfect for any special occasion.

The alternating layers of apricot jam and raspberry preserves add a sweet and tangy contrast to the rich almond cake.

Baum Torte-Baum Kuchen also looks stunning on a cake stand, making it an impressive centerpiece for your dessert table.

CONS

This recipe is quite complex and time-consuming to make.

It requires many ingredients and special equipment, including a double boiler.

The cake layers are also quite delicate and can easily break during assembly if not handled carefully.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Although Baum Torte-Baum Kuchen isn’t the healthiest dessert option, almonds offer many nutritional benefits.
They are high in protein, fiber, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium.
Almonds are also known to support heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease.

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