Rich Almond Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350F.
2. 2
   Butter and flour a 8 1/2-inch round springform pan.
3. 3
   Line bottom with waxed paper.
4. 4
   In food processor, pulse almonds until finely ground.
5. 5
   (It is important not to over grind and produce a paste.)
6. 6
   Transfer almonds to a bowl and add sugar and orange peel; mix well.
7. 7
   In large bowl, using an electric mixer, whisk egg whites and salt until stiff peaks are formed.
8. 8
   Fold in almonds a little at a time.
9. 9
   Take care not to over mix.
10. 10
    Sift flour again, a little at a time, over mixture and gently fold in.
11. 11
    Transfer mixture to prepared pan.
12. 12
    Bake in center of oven until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 45 to 50 minutes.
13. 13
    Allow cake to cool for 10 minutes before releasing from pan.
14. 14
    Cool completely on a wire rack.
15. 15
    Transfer cake to serving plate and dust top with confectioners sugar if desired.