Chai-Spiced Pecan Torte

This pecan torte is a delicious and gluten-free cake that is flavored with chai spices and topped with roasted pears. It’s perfect for fall and winter celebrations, or as a cozy treat any day of the week. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients and a food processor.

Ingredients

Pecan Torte:

• 4 eggs, separated
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 3 cups raw pecans (or hazelnuts or almonds)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Chai Spice Mix:

• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon clove
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Roasted Pears:

• 2 pears
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon chai spice

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper. Grease the paper and sides of the pan.
2. Make the chai spice mix by combining all the spices in a small bowl. Set aside one teaspoon for the pears later.
3. Make the pecan torte batter by pulsing the pecans in a food processor until they form a coarse meal. Do not use nut flour as it is too dense.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar and molasses until smooth and well combined.
5. In another bowl, whip the egg whites with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Start on low speed and gradually increase to high speed. Do not overmix.
6. Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture in three batches, using a rubber spatula or a whisk. Do not deflate the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Let the torte cool completely in the pan before removing it. Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.
9. While the torte is baking, prepare the pears by slicing and coring them. You can leave the skin on if you like.
10. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter with the sugar and one teaspoon of chai spice. Stir until well combined.
11. Arrange the pear slices on a baking sheet and brush them with the butter mixture.
12. Roast the pears in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until tender and golden.
13. Serve the torte with the roasted pears on top or on the side. Enjoy!