Classic Sbrisolona (Crumble Cake)

Step 1

Learn how to make the classic sbrisolona recipe, a typical dessert of Mantua that has been prepared by farmers in the area as far back as the sixteenth centuryFor the classicsbrisolona recipe, process 1/3 cup of almonds along with the hazelnuts and sugar, but not too finely.|Mix the cornmeal on a work surface along with a pinch of salt, then add the chopped butter and sugar-nut mixture.|Mix the ingredients with your fingertips without ever fully pressing the dough, which should be very crumbly.|Add the Italian 00 flour to the dough and continue to work it with your fingertips until the mixture is even more crumbly and dry - almost sandy.|Add the wine, a little at a time.|Continue to mix it, adding a touch of wine and each time working the dough to keep that dry and crumbly,

Step 2

yet wet, consistency.|Lined a baking sheet with parchment paper and place two greased and floured ring cake molds (ø 7 in.), or 2 classic cake pans lined with parchment paper, on top. Spread the crumbly dough inside the rings or cake pans,

Step 3

letting it fall from your hands and forming a layer just over half an inch thick.|Decorate the cake with the rest of the almonds, whole or sliced, then sprinkle with a spoonful of sugar.|Bake at 350 °F for 30 minutes, until the surface is golden. Remove from the oven, let cool, then remove them from the pans and serve, breaking it with your hands.