Icelandic Torte

Filling

 * 2 pkg (12-oz) prunes — pitted, dried
 * 2 cup water
 * ¾ cup sugar
 * 1 tsp vanilla extract
 * ¾ tsp cardamom seed — crushed
 * ¼ tsp salt

Torte layers

 * 4 cup all-purpose flour — sifted
 * 2 tsp baking powder
 * ½ tsp salt
 * 1 cup butter — softened
 * 1 cup sugar
 * 1 tsp vanilla extract
 * 2 eggs
 * ¼ cup milk

To serve

 * confectioner's sugar
 * whipped cream

Filling

 * 1) In a 3 quart saucepan, place prunes and 2 cups water; heat to boiling.
 * 2) Reduce heat, and simmer, covered, 30 minutes, or until prunes are very tender.
 * 3) Drain prunes, reserving liquid.
 * 4) Chop prunes finely.
 * 5) Add ¾ cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla; the cardamom, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ½ cup reserved cooking liquid; mix until ingredients are well blended.
 * 6) Set aside to cool.

Torte layers

 * 1) Sift flour with baking powder and salt.
 * 2) In a large bowl, with electric mixer at high speed, beat butter with granulated sugar and vanilla until light and fluffy.
 * 3) Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
 * 4) At low speed, add flour mixture alternately with milk, beginning and ending with flour mixture.
 * 5) Refrigerate dough until chilled and easy to handle-about 20 minutes.
 * 6) Preheat oven to 350°F.
 * 7) Divide dough into 7 equal pieces.
 * 8) For each layer, invert an 8-inch round layer cake pan.
 * 9) Flatten a piece of dough with hands; place on pan; pat to fit.
 * 10) Then gently roll to make layer even; trim edge if necessary.
 * 11) Keep pieces of dough refrigerated until ready to use.
 * 12) Bake 15 to 20 minutes, or until edge is golden brown.
 * 13) Carefully remove to wire rack; let cool.

To assemble

 * 1) Place one layer on serving plate; spread with about ½ cup filling.
 * 2) Repeat with 5 more layers and remaining filling.
 * 3) Set last layer on top.
 * 4) Cover completely with plastic film or foil.
 * 5) Refrigerate at least 24 hours, to mellow.

To serve

 * 1) Sprinkle top with confectioners sugar.
 * 2) Cut in thin slices.
 * 3) Pass whipped cream.
 * 4) Return unused portion to refrigerator.