Runeberg Torte Recipe

February is the month of the Runeberg Torte, although in Porvoo, Finland you can find them all year long. February 5th is Runeberg Day in honor of Johan Ludvig Runeberg, Finnish National Poet, born on February 5th  in 1804. He was known for his patriotism with one of his poems later became Finland's National Anthem. 

Runeberg's wife, Fredrika who was also a writer, invented the cake that was named after him. They resided in Porvoo where they raised their eight children together. The torte is a combination of almond, flour, butter. sugar, breadcrumbs and jam that creates a hearty yet delicate confection. We have translated and converted the following recipe from the Finnish cookbook Kotiruoka (home food) by Kaisa Isotalo and Raija Kuittinen.

These are quick and easy to make any time of year, but we like to make them for Valentine's Day. Traditionally, these are baked in a tall cylindrical form. However, a muffin tin works just as well. Or you can use a mini-muffin tin and reduce the baking time.  

You can also see the beloved torte in some of Kehvola's work including their Pannu postcard and tea towel. For more information on Runeberg visit here.