Chocolate Chip Torte
A rich chocolate chip torte featuring dates, nuts, and cocoa, perfect for chocolate lovers and suitable for dessert or teatime gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add together dates, boiling water, and soda; set aside.
- Sift flour, cocoa, and salt together; set aside.
- Cream shortening and sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs gradually, beating well after each addition.
- Alternately add flour mixture and date mixture, blending well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla.
- Spread batter in a greased 13 x 9 1/2-inch pan.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts and chocolate chips on top of the batter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark cocoa. If you don't have shortening, you can use an equal amount of butter. Chopped dried apricots or prunes can be substituted for dates. Be sure to sift the flour mixture thoroughly to avoid lumps. This recipe can also be made in a round cake pan if you prefer a different presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chocolate chip torte with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a delightful twist, try it alongside Ethel'S Pumpkin Bread for a dessert spread that highlights different flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Chip Torte contains roughly 566 calories, with 9g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value) and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 726mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this torte gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to ensure proper texture. Keep in mind that baking times may vary slightly.
How can I enhance the chocolate flavor?
To intensify the chocolate flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to the batter. This enhances the chocolate taste without adding a coffee flavor. You can also use semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips for a richer outcome.
Can I freeze the torte?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled torte tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator when you're ready to enjoy it, then bring it to room temperature or warm it up before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).