Hearty pumpkin cake

The hearty pumpkin cake is a true delight that combines the sweet and fragrant aroma of pumpkin with rich and crunchy textures. This simple and accessible recipe has been cherished by generations, becoming a popular choice in the fall season when pumpkin is at its peak of flavor. I will guide you step by step in preparing this delicious cake, adding useful tips and information about the ingredients used to achieve a perfect result.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Number of servings: 12-16

Main ingredients:
- 2 kg grated pumpkin (about 1 medium pumpkin)
- 1 cup (250 ml) flour
- 1 cup (250 ml) semolina
- 1 cup (250 ml) sugar
- 4 tablespoons powdered milk
- 100 g butter
- 50 ml sweet milk (optional, for a less dense texture)
- Sugar for sautéing the pumpkin (to taste)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar Dr Oetker
- 1 baking powder Dr Oetker
- 1 small packet of golden raisins
- 10-12 whole walnut kernels
- Powdered sugar
- Cinnamon
- Lemon essence (optional)
- Grated lemon peel (optional)

Step by step in preparing the hearty pumpkin cake:

Step 1: Preparing the pumpkin
Start by peeling the pumpkin and grating it. This part will give the cake a delicious moisture and sweet taste. In a non-stick pan, add the grated pumpkin along with the sugar, adjusting the amount according to your desired sweetness. I recommend starting with a smaller amount and adding gradually if necessary. Sauté the pumpkin for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes soft and begins to caramelize slightly.

Step 2: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, semolina, sugar, powdered milk, baking powder, and one packet of vanilla sugar. Mix the dry ingredients well to avoid clumps. Gradually add the milk and melted butter (let it cool slightly) and mix until you obtain a homogeneous composition. The dough should be a bit denser and stickier, not runny.

Step 3: Assembling the cake
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Prepare a baking tray, which you can grease with a little butter or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Pour a layer of dough into the tray, followed by a layer of sautéed pumpkin. Repeat this process until the ingredients are used up, ensuring that the last layer is pumpkin. On top of this last layer, add the chopped walnuts, golden raisins, and cubes of butter. These ingredients will add extra flavor and texture to the cake.

Step 4: Baking
Place the tray in the oven and let the cake bake for 50-60 minutes. After 30 minutes, turn the tray to ensure even baking. At the end of the 60 minutes, check the cake with a tester (a toothpick or thin knife). If it comes out clean, the cake is ready!

Step 5: Serving
After removing the cake from the oven, let it cool slightly, then cut it with a very sharp knife. Over the warm cake, sprinkle powdered sugar mixed with cinnamon to add an aromatic and appealing taste. It can be served plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which will perfectly balance the sweetness of the cake.

Additional tricks and tips:
- If you want a fluffier cake, add a beaten egg to the dough. This will add extra air and help the cake rise.
- For a more intense flavor, add a little lemon essence or grated lemon peel to the dough.
- Pumpkin is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making this cake not only tasty but also beneficial for health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned pumpkin?
Yes, canned pumpkin can be used, but it is best to drain any excess liquid to avoid altering the texture of the dough.
2. How can I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.

This hearty pumpkin cake will surely become your family's favorite, both for its enticing flavors and its soft and moist texture. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 2 kg grated pumpkin. 1 cup flour. 1 cup semolina. 1 cup sugar. 4 tablespoons powdered milk. 100 g butter. 50 ml sweet milk (those who wish can add more milk, but the cake will need to bake longer). sugar for sautéing the pumpkin (everyone can add as much as they want). 2 vanilla sugars Dr. Oetker. 1 baking powder Dr. Oetker. 1 small packet of golden raisins. 10-12 whole walnut kernels. powdered sugar, cinnamon, lemon essence, grated lemon peel.