Hungarian Walnut Torte (Diós Torta)

Hungarian Walnut Torte, or Diós Torta, is a beautiful traditional-style dessert made with layers of tender walnut cake and a smooth, creamy filling. Ground walnuts give the cake a rich, nutty flavor, while a light vanilla cream balances the richness and creates a wonderfully elegant dessert.

This classic Hungarian-inspired torte is perfect for birthdays, holidays, Christmas celebrations, or simply serving with coffee when you want something special.

Ingredients

For the Walnut Cake

• 1½ cups finely ground walnuts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 6 large eggs, separated
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

For the Walnut Cream Filling

• 1½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup finely ground walnuts
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Chocolate Topping

• 5 oz semisweet or dark chocolate
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

For Decoration

• Chopped walnuts
• Powdered sugar, optional
• Walnut halves, optional