August 22 – Pecan Torte Day

3 min read

Originally written on August 22, 2021. Updated 2023

Pecan Torte, Pecan Pie, and Pecan cakes are all very similar treats, and all of them are incredibly common to find being served in the deep south in the USA.
Their delicious flavor is very appreciated, and best enjoyed with a rich topping of whipped heavy cream!

But what is the difference between a cake and a torte?
Tortes are invariably denser and are naturally creamier. They’re also commonly multi-layered to take advantage of rich creamy toppings like that mentioned above.
They are typically prepared without baking powder or soda, the ingredients in other baked goods that causes them to rise. Generally made with little to no flour, tortes use ground nuts or breadcrumbs, along with sugar, eggs, and flavorings. What lightness they have comes from the use of whipped egg whites to give them structure and an airiness.
The baker often glazes and garnishes the torte once it is cooled.

Pecan Tortes are particularly common in the southern region of the USA in part because pecans are the state tree of Texas, commonly known as the lone-star state.
People of this region take a deep pride in their traditional treats and hold it high as one more example of a truly American institution, almost like the fireworks on the 4th of July.
Interestingly, thr pecan tree is the only nut tree native to North America.
Moreover, pecans do deliver some healthy perks.
First off, they pack in more than 19 vitamins and minerals. Some of the ones with some nutritional punch include vitamins A, B, and E. Add to that folic acid, calcium, potassium, and zinc to deserve several celebrations.
But, If you’ve never enjoyed a Pecan Torte, then Pecan Torte Day is your opportunity to start!

The best way to celebrate Pecan Torte Day is to make one of your very own!
Here’s a quick and simple recipe.

12 egg yolks
12 egg whites
2c granulated sugar
Pecans ground
Unseasoned bread crumbs
Extract of vanilla

Start by blending together the egg yolks and sugar until it’s a golden yellow, then mix the ground pecans and bread crumbs together and stir them into the yolk mixture with vanilla.
Elsewhere blend the egg whites until they form stiff peaks and fold them into the mixture.
Now that the mix is prepared, pour them into a round baking pan that have been greased and then lined with wax paper.
Bake at 200 C for about 20 minutes, testing to make sure the cake are finished baking.
Then turn out and leave to cool.
Top with your favorite frosting and serve!

Sadly, we were unable to find the creator of National Pecan Torte Day, and why it’s celebrated on August 22.