Nut and chocolate cake
Walnut and Chocolate Cake
Who can resist a delicious cake that combines the intense flavor of chocolate with the crunchiness of walnuts? This walnut and chocolate cake recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it's an anniversary, a party with friends, or simply a weekend evening dedicated to enjoying a refined dessert.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12
Ingredients:
For the cake:
- 150 g butter (at room temperature)
- 100 g sugar
- 100 g Almette cream cheese
- 100 g dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa)
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 50 g cocoa powder
- 5 eggs
- 150 g flour
- 100 g coarsely ground walnuts
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Rum essence (a few drops)
For the glaze:
- 100 g dark chocolate
- 50 g butter
- 50 ml liquid cream
For decoration:
- 200 ml liquid cream
Recipe history
The walnut and chocolate cake is a classic dessert that blends the tradition of sweet pastries with the intense taste of chocolate. This type of cake is often associated with festive moments, but it can also be enjoyed on ordinary days, providing each bite with a sense of comfort and joy.
Preparing the cake
1. Preparing the base mixture: Start by bringing all the ingredients to room temperature. Soft butter is essential for achieving a fluffy cream. In the mixing bowl, add the butter and sugar. Mix on medium speed until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color, about 3-5 minutes. You can use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
2. Incorporating the cream cheese: Add the cream cheese to the butter and sugar mixture. Continue mixing on low speed until everything is well combined. The cream cheese adds a velvety texture to the cake.
3. Melting the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, place the dark chocolate cut into cubes and add the milk. Heat in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is completely melted. Let it cool slightly, then incorporate it into the butter and cheese mixture.
4. Adding the eggs: Start adding the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. It is crucial to ensure that each egg is fully integrated into the mixture to achieve an even cake.
5. The dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. This is the moment to add the ground walnuts. Mix the dry ingredients well to avoid lumps. Then, incorporate them into the wet mixture, stirring with a spatula until everything is well combined. You can add the rum essence now for extra flavor.
6. Baking the cake: Prepare a 25x35 cm baking tray lined with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the tray, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 180°C (medium heat) for about 30 minutes. After this time, do the toothpick test – if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
7. Cooling the layers: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. It is important not to skip this step, as a hot cake can become soggy.
Preparing the glaze
1. Melting the ingredients: In a small bowl, add the dark chocolate, butter, and liquid cream. Heat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring until everything is completely melted and combined.
2. Glazing the cake: Let the glaze cool to room temperature, then pour it evenly over the cooled cake layer. Make sure the glaze covers the entire surface.
3. Final cooling: Place the cake in the refrigerator for about an hour, or until the glaze hardens. This step is essential to achieve a beautiful appearance and a crunchy texture.
Serving the cake
Once the cake is ready, you can start slicing it. It is delicious both plain and decorated with whipped cream. Use a whisk to beat the liquid cream until it becomes firm and use it to decorate each slice. You can add some chopped walnuts on top for an even more attractive appearance.
Serving suggestions and variations
This walnut and chocolate cake pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve it alongside vanilla ice cream for a warm and cold contrast.
If you want to experiment, you can replace the walnuts with chopped hazelnuts or almonds, or you can add some berries for a fresh taste.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use milk chocolate? Although dark chocolate offers a more intense flavor, you can use milk chocolate, but you will need to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe.
- How can I make the cake less caloric? Replace the butter with a plant-based butter substitute and use natural sweeteners.
- Can I freeze the cake? Yes, the cake can be frozen. Make sure it is well covered to avoid freezer burn.
Nutrition
This walnut and chocolate cake contains nutrient-rich ingredients, such as walnuts, which are excellent sources of healthy fats, protein, and vitamins. However, given its high sugar and fat content, it is recommended to consume it in moderation.
Enjoy this walnut and chocolate cake recipe, savoring every bite! Whether you prepare it for yourself or for loved ones, it is a dessert that will bring smiles to everyone's faces.
Ingredients: 150 g butter, 100 g sugar, 100 g Almette cream cheese, 100 g dark chocolate, 2 tablespoons milk, 50 g cocoa powder, 5 eggs, 150 g flour, 100 g coarsely ground walnuts, 1 teaspoon baking powder, rum essence. For the glaze: 100 g dark chocolate, 50 g butter, 50 ml liquid cream. For decoration: 200 ml liquid cream.
