Orange-Scented Chocolate Almond Cake Kirkgaard

INGREDIENTS

• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process)
• 1/3 cup well-chilled heavy cream
• 3/4 cup blanched whole almonds, toasted, cooled completely, and ground fine
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated orange zest
• 3 ounces fine-quality bittersweet chocolate (not unsweetened), chopped
• 2 slices homemade-type whole-wheat bread
• 3/4 cup well-chilled heavy cream
• 6 ounces fine-quality bittersweet chocolate (not unsweetened), chopped
• 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon brandy
• 2/3 cup sugar