Chez Panisse Simple Almond Torte

Steps

1. 1Preheat the oven to 325ºF. Beat the sugar with the almond paste until the almond paste is in fine pieces. Or, better, pulverize it in a food processor. Beat in the butter and the vanilla, then cream the mixture until it is light and fluffy. Beat in the whole eggs, one at a time — the eggs should be at room temperature — beating well after each addition so the eggs are thoroughly mixed in.
2. 2Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt, and beat in just until thoroughly blended.
3. 3Butter a 9-inch springform pan and turn the batter into it, smoothing the top evenly. Bake for 1 to 1¼ hours, but start checking at the 40-minute mark — depending on the pan material and your oven, the cake may be done between 40 and 50 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, and the center feels springy when you push it gently.
4. 4Let cool for about 20 minutes before releasing the sides of the springform pan.