Torta Negra (Venezuelan Fruitcake)

This fruitcake, studded with dried fruit, spices and nuts is at the center of the holiday celebration in Venezuela. What makes this cake very moist and interesting is the maceration of the dried fruits in rum. I find that macerating the fruits a week in advance or overnight works great. 1/2 cup dates, chopped½ cup …

Panforte (Tuscan Confection)

2 cups of whole almonds toasted1 ½ cups flour½ cup sugar3/4 cup honey1 cup candied orange peels2 cups raisins½ cup dried apricots2 teaspoon cinnamon¼ teaspoon cloves¼ teaspoon nutmeg½ teaspoon gingerpinch salt¼ teaspoon ground coriander½ cup water Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a baking pan with parchment paper. Whisk together flour, spices and salt in a …