Nut flower cake

Nut Roll: A Holiday Delight

Spring is approaching, and with it, Santa Claus will come to reward us with gifts, so it is the perfect time to prepare to welcome him with unforgettable treats. Our nut roll recipe is not just a simple cake, but a tradition that brings us together as we enjoy the sweet and warm flavors of the holidays. Here’s how you can create this delight step by step!

Total preparation time: 4 hours (including rising time)
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12

Ingredients:
- 500 g high-quality flour
- 4 large eggs + 1 for brushing
- 125 g butter, melted and cooled
- 150 g sugar + 3 tablespoons for the starter
- Zest of one lemon and one orange
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 250 ml lukewarm milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cocoa
- Rum (to taste)
- 200 g ground walnuts (or more, to taste)

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by gathering all the ingredients on a clean table. Make sure the flour is sifted and that all ingredients are at room temperature, except for the milk, which should be lukewarm. High-quality flour is essential for achieving a fluffy and airy nut roll.

Step 2: Preparing the starter
In a deep bowl, sift the flour and make a well in the center. In another bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the yolks with 150 g of sugar and a pinch of salt, then add the grated lemon and orange zest. In a saucepan, heat the milk until just below boiling point. Take 2-3 tablespoons of flour from the bowl and add the boiling milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Let the mixture cool slightly, then add the yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let it rise until it doubles in volume, about 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Kneading the dough
After the starter has risen, pour it into the well in the flour. Add the beaten eggs, the remaining lukewarm milk, and start kneading the dough. Gradually add the melted (but cooled) butter and knead well until the dough becomes elastic and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in volume (about 1-1.5 hours).

Step 4: Filling the nut roll
While the dough is rising, you can prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix two of the remaining egg whites with the ground walnuts, 3 tablespoons of sugar, 1 tablespoon of cocoa, and rum to taste. This mixture will add an intense flavor to the nut roll and a special aroma.

Step 5: Shaping the nut roll
After the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Evenly spread the walnut filling over the entire surface of the dough, then carefully roll it up, forming a log. Cut equal-sized pieces and place them in a round baking dish lined with parchment paper. Let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 6: Baking
Preheat the oven to medium temperature (about 180°C). Beat the remaining egg with a tablespoon of milk and carefully brush the nut roll. Bake for 40-50 minutes, until golden and baked through. Check by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the nut roll is ready.

Step 7: Cooling and serving
Remove the nut roll from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. It is delicious served warm, but also the next day, with a cup of milk or tea.

Tips and Variations
- You can replace the walnuts with hazelnuts or almonds for a different note.
- Add raisins or candied fruits to the filling for an extra flavor boost.
- If you are looking for more exotic flavors, try adding a bit of cardamom or cinnamon to the walnut mixture.

Nutritional Benefits
The nut roll is not only tasty but also nutritious. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, contributing to heart and brain health. Eggs provide quality protein, while whole flour adds fiber, essential for healthy digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but you will need to reduce the amount to about 10 g.

2. How can I tell if the dough has risen enough?
The dough is ready when it has doubled in volume and springs back slightly when touched.

3. What can I do if the dough doesn't rise?
Make sure you used fresh yeast and that the temperature is optimal for fermentation.

Serving Suggestions
This nut roll is delicious alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or aromatic tea. It can be served as a dessert or for breakfast, adding a touch of fruit jam for extra sweetness.

We conclude with a warm thought: when you prepare this nut roll, you not only enjoy a delicious recipe but also create beautiful memories with your loved ones. So, grab the ingredients and let yourself be carried away by the magic of the holidays!

 Ingredients: 500 g flour, 4 eggs + 1 for brushing, 125 g butter, 150 g sugar + 3 tablespoons, grated lemon and orange zest, 25 g fresh yeast, 250 ml warm milk, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon cocoa, rum, ground walnuts (approximately 200 g or more)

 Tags:  nut flower cake