Once you're above about 5 mph, torque doesn't matter. To a large extent cadence doesn't really matter. Power is basically the only thing that matters. For the most part, low rpm mashing feels like you're doing a lot of work, which you are per pedal stroke, but you're generating much less power than someone at a higher rpm.

With a little bit of practice, most people are more comfortable spinning at 80-90 rpm. Clipless pedals make it a bit more comfortable at high cadence. The advantage of spinning is that you gain a much larger usable range.

In your case, the simplest way to increase power is probably to ride more.