Flourless Chocolate-Almond Torte with Cherry Preserves and Kirsch Meringue

INGREDIENTS

Egg whites, large

Eggs, large

2 sticks

Butter or nondairy margarine, unsalted

1/4 cup

Cherry preserves

1/2 cup

Cocoa powder, unsweetened Dutch-process

Salt, Coarse

2 5/8 cups

Sugar

1 2/3 cups

Almonds, finely ground

2 tbsp

Kirsch or other cherry flavored liqueur

1/2 cup

Water