Schreiner's Restaurant Ritz Nut Torte

3 ounces coarsely crushed Ritz crackers
1/2 cup coarsely chopped walnuts plus finely chopped walnuts for garnish (divided)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/3 cup egg whites
1 cup sugar
1/2 pint whipping cream, whipped with vanilla and powdered sugar to taste

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Mix crackers, 1/2 cup of the nuts and baking powder.

Beat egg white and gradually add sugar. Beat until very stiff. Fold into cracker mixture and spread into a buttered 9-inch pie pan.

Bake in preheated oven 45 minutes or until done. Cool torte after baking. When cooled, top with sweetened whipped cream and sprinkle with remaining finely chopped walnuts. Makes 6 to 8 servings.

Variation: To make Chocolate Ritz Torte, add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to crushed crackers. Substitute unsweetened chocolate shavings for crushed nuts.