Method
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Cake Pan
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Grease the Pan: Grease the bottom and sides of a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using a whisk or an electric mixer, beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, incorporate the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the chestnut puree, baking powder, and salt.
Mix Everything Together: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Transfer to Cake Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish (Optional): Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar and serve with whipped cream or mascarpone cheese. You can also sprinkle chopped roasted chestnuts on top for extra texture and flavor.
Slice and Serve: Cut the cake into wedges and enjoy your Torta di Castagne with a cup of coffee or tea.
Variations
Nut-Free Version: You can replace chestnut puree with pumpkin puree for a different flavor profile.
Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water for each egg) and use coconut oil instead of butter.
Spiced Cake: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a spiced version.