Queen of Sheba Cake

Directions

• Step 1

  Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

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• Step 2

  Whisk almond flour, baking blend (or all-purpose flour), 2 tablespoons sugar and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.

• Step 3

  Bring 1 inch water to a bare simmer in a medium saucepan. Combine chocolate and butter in a metal bowl large enough to rest in the pan without touching the water. Cook, stirring occasionally, until melted and smooth, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Whisk in egg yolks and almond extract. Set aside.

• Step 4

  Beat egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer on medium high speed (or with a hand-held mixer on high speed) until soft peaks form. Gradually sprinkle in the remaining 8 tablespoons sugar and beat until the mixture holds stiff, shiny peaks.

• Step 5

  Whisk the flour mixture and one-fourth of the egg whites into the chocolate. With a rubber spatula, gently fold in the remaining egg whites just until incorporated. Scrape the batter into an 8- or 9-inch springform pan and spread evenly.

• Step 6

  Bake until a toothpick inserted into the cake 1 1/2 inches from the edge emerges clean, 20 to 25 minutes.

• Step 7

  Run a sharp paring knife around the edge of the cake to loosen it and allow it to sink slightly. Sprinkle with flaky salt. Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, about 1 hour.

• Step 8

  Remove the pan sides and transfer the cake to a serving platter. Serve with whipped cream, if desired.