Nut roll

Nut Roll Cake – The Traditional Delight

The nut roll cake is a recipe that spans generations, often associated with holidays and special moments. This delicious dessert, with a rich flavor of nuts and cocoa, combines tradition with the joy of sharing it with loved ones. Preparing the nut roll may seem intimidating at first, but step by step, you will discover that it is simpler than you think. So, let’s embark on this culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour + 15 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 12-16

Ingredients:

For the dough:

- 1 kg flour
- 150 g sugar
- 50 g fresh yeast
- 3 eggs
- 100 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- A pinch of salt
- 100 g sour cream
- Warm water (if necessary)

For the filling:

- 300 g walnuts
- 100 g sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- Rum essence (to taste)
- 1 egg yolk for brushing
- 2 tablespoons milk

Preparing the dough:

1. Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step not only removes any impurities but also helps aerate the flour, making the dough fluffier.

2. Add the sugar and salt over the flour and gently mix to combine the ingredients.

3. In the middle of the flour mixture, make a well and add the yeast dissolved in a little warm water. Stir with a wooden spoon, gradually incorporating flour from the edges until the yeast is well blended.

4. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, until the yeast starts to bubble and rise (this is a sign that the yeast is active).

5. Once the yeast has risen, add the beaten eggs, oil, and sour cream. Begin to knead the dough by hand until it becomes elastic and non-sticky. If necessary, gradually add a little warm water.

6. Once you have a uniform dough, cover it again and let it rise for about 1 hour in a warm place until it doubles in size.

Preparing the filling:

7. Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Chop the walnuts and mix them with the sugar and cocoa. Add the rum essence to taste, to give the filling a special flavor.

8. Ensure that the filling is well blended so that each bite is full of flavor.

Shaping the nut roll:

9. After the dough has risen, divide it into four equal parts. On a floured work surface, roll out each piece of dough into a rectangle.

10. Spread each rectangle with the walnut filling, leaving a 1 cm margin on each side to seal the nut roll.

11. Roll each rectangle tightly, then braid two rolls together. Place them in a greased and floured baking pan.

12. Cover the nut rolls and let them rise for 15 minutes to give them a final boost of growth.

Baking:

13. Preheat the oven to 170°C. Before placing them in the oven, brush the nut rolls with the egg yolk and milk mixture for a golden, glossy crust.

14. Bake the nut rolls for about 60 minutes. Check them occasionally with a toothpick – when it comes out clean, the nut rolls are ready!

15. After baking, let the nut rolls cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving suggestions and variations:

The nut roll is perfect served plain, but it can be accompanied by a cup of fragrant tea or coffee. You can also try adding a layer of melted chocolate on top or serving the nut roll with a portion of sweet cream for an extra flavor boost.

If you want to experiment, you can replace the walnuts with hazelnuts or almonds, and the cocoa with chocolate or even raisins for a sweeter filling. Each variation will contribute to the tradition of the nut roll!

Calories and nutritional benefits:

A nut roll has approximately 300-350 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, having benefits for heart and brain health. Additionally, whole wheat flour, if you choose to use it, will add fiber and essential nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but the proportion will be different. Check the instructions on the package to calculate the necessary amount.

- How can I keep the nut roll fresh for longer?
Store the nut roll in an airtight container or wrapped in cling film at room temperature. You can also freeze it for later consumption.

- What other fillings can I use?
Besides walnuts, you can use poppy seeds, sweet cheese, or chocolate, each variation bringing a unique note to your nut roll.

Now that you have all the necessary information, I invite you to start cooking! Don’t forget to enjoy every step of the process and share the result with your loved ones. The nut roll is more than just a dessert – it’s a family experience, a tradition that brings joy and indulgence. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 kg flour, 3 eggs, 100 ml oil, 150 g sugar, 50 g yeast, a pinch of salt, 100 g sour cream filling, 300 g walnuts, 100 g sugar, 2 tablespoons cocoa, rum essence, 1 egg yolk, 2 tablespoons milk

 Tags:  walnut cake