Cocoa tart with almond flavor

Delicious cocoa and almond tart – a recipe that combines sweetness with a fine texture and an unmistakable flavor. This tart is perfect for any occasion, from a dinner with friends to a delightful dessert after a hearty meal. Moreover, it is easy to prepare and will surely impress everyone.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Necessary ingredients:
- 4 large eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 75 g high-quality cocoa (choose a cocoa with a high percentage for an intense flavor)
- 50 g all-purpose flour type 000
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (this will help achieve a finer texture)
- 1 vial vanilla essence
- 1 teaspoon almond essence
- a pinch of salt
- 50 g almond flakes for decoration (optional but recommended)

A bit of history:
The tart is a classic dessert, appreciated over the centuries in various cultures. This cocoa and almond variant is inspired by European traditions, where combinations of chocolate and nuts are always welcome. A dessert that blends culinary history with personal creativity, the cocoa and almond tart is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create true culinary masterpieces.

Step by step for a perfect tart:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Make sure you have all the ingredients at room temperature. This will help with easier homogenization of the mixture. Carefully separate the egg whites from the yolks, ensuring no traces of yolk remain in the whites, as they will not whip properly.

2. The yolk cream:
In a bowl, add the yolks and sugar. Use a mixer to combine the two ingredients until you obtain a smooth and light-colored cream. This step is essential to ensure an airy texture for the tart.

3. Adding the dry ingredients:
Sift the flour, cocoa, and cornstarch directly over the yolk cream. This step will not only eliminate any lumps but will also incorporate the necessary air for a fluffy tart. Add the vanilla and almond essences, gently mixing with a spatula until everything is well combined.

4. Whipping the egg whites:
In another bowl, add a pinch of salt to the egg whites and start beating them with the mixer until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial for achieving an airy and slightly fluffy tart. If you don’t have an electric mixer, you can use a whisk, but it will require more effort.

5. Combining the mixtures:
Carefully take the whipped egg whites and gradually fold them into the yolk mixture, making slow, circular motions. The goal is to keep as much air incorporated in the whites as possible, so do not mix too vigorously.

6. Baking the tart:
Preheat the oven to 180°C and grease a 26 cm diameter non-stick tart pan. Pour the mixture into the pan and level the surface with a spatula. Bake the tart for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and sprinkle the almond flakes on top. Continue baking for another 10 minutes or until the tart is firm to the touch.

7. Cooling and serving:
Once the tart is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack. It can be served warm or at room temperature. It is delicious on its own, but you can accompany it with a scoop of cream or vanilla ice cream for a contrast of temperatures and textures.

Useful tips:
- You can replace the almond essence with orange essence for a different and surprising flavor.
- If you want a fluffier tart, you can add half a teaspoon of baking powder to the dry ingredients mixture.
- Choose a high-quality cocoa, as this will significantly influence the final taste of the tart.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 180 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can use almond flour for a gluten-free version, but the recipe will require adjustments.
- How do I keep the tart fresh? The tart keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Can I freeze the tart? Yes, you can freeze the tart, but it is recommended to consume it fresh for the best taste experience.

This cocoa and almond tart is more than just a simple dessert - it is an explosion of flavors that will make you come back to it again and again. So, share it with your loved ones and enjoy every bite. Enjoy your meal!