8 oz. nuts, very fine
8 eggs, separated
1 tbsp. baking powder
8 tbsp. sugar
1 tbsp. vanilla
2 tbsp. brandy, if desired

Mix nuts and baking powder together. Set aside. Combine egg yolks and sugar until lemon in color. Add vanilla and brandy, if desired. Fold in nuts until well mixed.

Beat egg whites until stiff. Fold in gently until no whites show. Pour into well floured 2 or 3 cake pans. Bake at 300 degrees until golden brown, 30-45 minutes. Slice each cake in half, fill with mock whip cream icing. 4-6 layer ice around outside.