French Torte
A rich, nutty tart with cherry filling, featuring a buttery crust that's pressed and baked to perfection, ideal for dessert or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use an 8 x 11 1/2-inch glass pan.
- Melt the butter (oleo).
- Combine the brown sugar, plain flour, and chopped nuts to make the crust mixture.
- Press the crust mixture to the bottom and sides of the prepared pan.
- Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and crumble the crust; let it cool.
- Press the cooled crust back into the pan and spread with two cans of cherry pie filling mixed with 4 tablespoons of water.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of oleo. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon to the crust mixture for extra warmth. Make sure to mix the nuts thoroughly for an even distribution throughout the crust.
Serving Suggestions
This French Torte is delightful when served chilled or at room temperature. Top each slice with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. It pairs beautifully with a Strawberry-Banana Yogurt Smoothie for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving alongside coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes, ensuring they are heated through without losing their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Torte contains roughly 836 calories, with 8g protein, 175g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of iron (19% of the Daily Value), protein (16% of the Daily Value), and potassium (11% 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 use a different type of fruit filling?
Absolutely! While cherry pie filling is traditional, you can substitute it with other options like blueberry, raspberry, or even a mixed berry filling. Just ensure the fruit is well-drained if using fresh fruit to avoid a soggy crust.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the French Torte. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
What can I use instead of chopped nuts?
If you have nut allergies or prefer not to use nuts, you can substitute them with crushed cookies or graham cracker crumbs for added texture. Alternatively, omit them entirely and increase the flour slightly to maintain the crust's integrity.
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).