Traditional Tuscan Chestnut Flour Cake

Quite the wholesome dessert, Tuscany's traditional Castagnaccio is truly a wonder that everyone who adores chestnuts as much as we do will agree:  remarkably delicious for such a straight-forward cake recipe.

Because Castagnaccio is made with chestnut flour, available throughout the year, you could in theory prepare this tasty dessert recipe anytime you wish - for us here, it's the clear signal that Fall has arrived.  Aromatized with the heady pine scent of rosemary and pine nuts, when you have a slice of this tender, moist cake, your taste buds will be in for a new surprise.  A good one, of course!

Born originally in Tuscany, this dessert has exploded in popularity, with different variations produced in just about every region in Italy.  Each region has its own final result, some sweeter than others, some with raisins and chocolate, but we tend to prefer and idolize our original version, just bordering on savory thanks to gorgeous extra-virgin olive oil, but ever so exquisite thanks to its texture and aroma.  What version do you think your loved ones will cherish the most?  Experiment as you follow along with us, and find out what tickles your family's taste buds the most.