Unearth The Voyage
Explore the delightful journey of Pittsburgh’s famed Burnt Almond Torte, celebrated as America’s best cake. This post highlights its origins, taste, availability, and why it has captured the hearts of dessert lovers nationwide.
1. What exactly is the Burnt Almond Torte?
A symphony of textures and flavors, the Burnt Almond Torte captivates with its layers of light yellow cake, creamy vanilla custard, and velvety buttercream frosting. Candied toasted almonds add a crunchy, sugary finish, meticulously handcrafted each morning. The Food Network describes it as a masterpiece of sweet indulgence, resonating with those who seek an unparalleled dessert experience.
2. Where did it come from?
The iconic Burnt Almond Torte traces its roots back to the 1970s when owner-baker Henry Prantl attended a bakers’ conference in California. Inspired by the golden state, Prantl brought the concept back to Pittsburgh, where it quickly became the bakery’s signature creation. This delectable cake has since solidified its status as a city staple, cherished by locals and visitors alike.
3. Why the “best cake in America” buzz?
In 2014, the Burnt Almond Torte earned national acclaim when a Huffington Post writer declared it “the best cake in America.” This bold claim resonated with dessert aficionados, propelling the cake to fame beyond Pittsburgh. Local media echoed the sentiment, with many Pittsburghers proudly embracing the torte as a delicious symbol of their city’s culinary prowess.
4. Where to try it (primary location)
Prantl’s Bakery in Shadyside, located at 5525 Walnut St, stands as the quintessential destination to savor the Burnt Almond Torte. This long-standing storefront is often the first stop for newcomers eager to taste the acclaimed cake. Regularly featured in guides and reviews, it remains a beloved landmark for both locals and tourists alike, ensuring a sweet, memorable visit.
5. …and other locations
Beyond its Shadyside home, Prantl’s Bakery opens its doors across Pittsburgh, including Squirrel Hill, Northside, Greensburg, and North Huntingdon. Each location embodies the bakery’s dedication to quality and tradition, welcoming visitors to indulge in the iconic Burnt Almond Torte. For accurate hours and status of openings or closures, the bakery’s official site offers up-to-date information.
6. Order Sizes & How Many People They Feed
When planning to indulge in the Burnt Almond Torte, understanding the order sizes is crucial. The small size, perfect for intimate gatherings, serves 8-10 people. Its compact form ensures everyone gets a generous slice. The medium size caters to 12-16 people, making it ideal for family celebrations. For larger events, the large cake can satisfy 20-30 guests with ample servings. This ensures that no one is left wanting.
Each cake size provides a unique experience, whether it’s a cozy family evening or a grand party. Remember, the larger the cake, the more memories to be shared.
Consider the event type and guest list before making your choice. This thoughtful planning ensures every slice is enjoyed to the fullest.
7. Can you ship it?
Prantl’s Bakery extends the joy of the Burnt Almond Torte beyond Pittsburgh through nationwide shipping, partnering with services like Goldbelly. This convenience allows fans to surprise loved ones with a grand, sweet gift. Whether it’s a memorable celebration or a cherished tradition, shipping the torte ensures its delightful flavors reach homes across the country.
8. A pro timeline for peak days
Timing is everything when it comes to enjoying the best of Pittsburgh’s cake. Arrive early in the morning to witness the bakers in action, crafting these masterpieces with precision. Mid-morning offers a quieter experience, perfect for savoring each bite without the hustle and bustle.
Weekends bring a lively crowd, a testament to the cake’s widespread popularity. It’s the ideal time for people watching while indulging.
For those seeking solitude, late afternoon offers a serene setting, with the day’s final cakes ready to be enjoyed in peace. Each time of the day offers a unique experience.
9. What it tastes like (in a nutshell)
Expect a delicate, moist crumb, cool, vanilla-forward custard, cloud-light buttercream, and a sweet, brittle, almond crunch on all sides. This heavenly combination makes the Burnt Almond Torte a deliciously unique experience, alluring those with a penchant for exquisite desserts.
10. Pittsburgh bona fides
Celebrated as a Pittsburgh icon, the Burnt Almond Torte carries the weight of its city’s culinary history. Featured in numerous regional publications, it stands as a testament to the vibrant food culture. Its ascent to national fame post-1970s solidified its position as not just a local treasure, but also a proud ambassador of Pittsburgh’s sweet traditions.
11. A surprisingly gift-able cake
The Burnt Almond Torte doesn’t just satisfy taste buds; it makes for an exceptional gift. With its elegant layers and sophisticated flavor, it’s perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion.
This cake not only delights the recipient but is also a conversation starter. It’s a slice of Pittsburgh tradition that can be shared with loved ones, bringing a taste of the city to homes far and wide.
12. Quick etiquette & tips
When savoring the Burnt Almond Torte, etiquette matters. Always serve with a dessert fork to appreciate its delicate layers.
For a perfect pairing, consider a light coffee or a glass of Prosecco.
Remember, this cake shines at gatherings, so serve small slices to allow guests to experience its richness without overwhelm.
A fun tip: slightly chilling the cake enhances the almond flavor. Embrace the joy of sharing this iconic dessert, making each bite a memorable experience for everyone.
