Chocolate cream and walnut cake

Chocolate and Walnut Cream Cake

A chocolate and walnut cream cake is the perfect choice for special occasions or simply to indulge yourself on ordinary days. The rich flavors of chocolate harmoniously blend with the crunchy texture of walnuts, offering a memorable tasting experience. This recipe is not just a simple combination of ingredients; it is a true culinary journey that brings joy and fulfillment. Let’s discover the necessary steps to create this delight, accompanied by useful tips and essential information.

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 6 hours (including cooling the cake)
Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the sponge:
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups of sugar
- 2 cups of flour
- 1 teaspoon of ammonia
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa

For the syrup:
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of rum essence

For the cream:
- 4 cups of milk
- 1 cup of flour
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 package of butter (250 g)
- 2 cubes of baking chocolate
- 1 packet of cocoa

For decoration:
- 1 bar of milk chocolate (or 1 packet of Dr. Oetker dark chocolate glaze)
- Parchment paper
- 200 g chopped walnut kernels
- Dr. Oetker decorative pens
- Dr. Oetker sweet snowflake decorations

Preparation

Step 1: Making the sponge

1. Beating the eggs: In a large bowl, beat the 6 eggs with 2 cups of sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture becomes frothy and the sugar is completely dissolved. This step is essential for obtaining a fluffy sponge.

2. Adding dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of ammonia, and 2 tablespoons of cocoa. Sifting these ingredients will help prevent lumps.

3. Combining ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg mixture, gently folding with a spatula or wooden spoon. It is important not to overmix, to avoid losing the air in the sponge.

4. Baking: Pour the mixture into a round cake pan lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 30 minutes. Check if it's done using the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center of the sponge; if it comes out clean, the sponge is perfectly baked. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 2: Making the syrup

1. Boiling the syrup: In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of water with 1/2 cup of sugar. Simmer on low heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved.

2. Adding flavors: Turn off the heat and add 1 teaspoon of rum essence. Let the syrup cool.

Step 3: Making the cream

1. Mixing ingredients: In another bowl, combine 4 cups of milk with 1 cup of flour, mixing well to avoid lumps.

2. Boiling the cream: Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and heat on low. Add 1 cup of sugar, 1 package of butter, 2 cubes of baking chocolate, and 1 packet of cocoa. Stir constantly until the mixture becomes creamy and thick. This process may take about 10-15 minutes.

3. Cooling the cream: Once the cream is ready, let it cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Assembling the cake

1. Cutting the sponge: Once the sponge has completely cooled, cut it into 3 equal parts using a long, sharp knife.

2. Soaking the layers: Use the prepared syrup to soak each layer of sponge with a pastry brush or spoon.

3. Assembling the cake: Place the first layer of sponge on a serving plate, add a generous layer of chocolate cream, sprinkle with chopped walnuts, and add a little cream to help hold the next layer. Repeat with the second layer and finish with the last sponge. Cover the cake with the remaining cream, smoothing the surface and edges.

4. Cooling the cake: To keep the sponge layers stable, use the ring from the adjustable cake pan and refrigerate the cake for 6 hours to set.

Step 5: Decorating the cake

1. Preparing the glaze: If you choose to use Dr. Oetker chocolate glaze, follow the instructions on the packet. Alternatively, melt a bar of chocolate in a double boiler for a similar effect.

2. Creating decorations: On a sheet of parchment paper, draw the desired shapes, then place the paper under another layer of parchment paper. Use a piping bag to outline the shapes with melted chocolate. Let them set in the refrigerator.

3. Decorating the cake: Once the cake has cooled, remove the metal ring. Use the cream to decorate the edges of the cake, then write a message with the decorative pens. Add the chocolate shapes and sprinkle the snowflakes for a whimsical effect.

Chef's tip

To achieve a truly spectacular cake, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start preparing. This will help achieve a smooth texture and perfect creaminess. Also, feel free to experiment with different types of nuts or even dried fruits between the layers!

Nutritional benefits

This chocolate and walnut cream cake is not only delicious but also contains ingredients with nutritional benefits. Walnuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, contributing to heart health and overall well-being. Dark chocolate used in the cream is rich in flavonoids, which can improve blood circulation and brain health.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of oil instead of butter?
Yes, you can use a quality oil, such as coconut or olive oil, but the taste will be different.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the sponge and cream, replacing it with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

3. Is it possible to prepare the cake in advance?
Absolutely! This cake keeps very well in the refrigerator, and the flavors become even more intense after a day.

Serving suggestions and pairings

This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Additionally, a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea can perfectly complement this decadent dessert. Serve it on special occasions or even at a casual gathering with friends - it is sure to impress!

In conclusion, the chocolate and walnut cream cake is a classic dessert full of flavor and elegance. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can bring a touch of magic to your kitchen. So, don’t hesitate to try this recipe and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: For the dough: 6 eggs, 2 cups sugar, 2 cups flour, 1 teaspoon ammonia, 2 tablespoons cocoa. For the syrup: 1 cup water, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon rum essence. For the cream: 4 cups milk, 1 cup flour, 1 cup sugar, 1 package butter, 2 cubes of cooking chocolate, 1 packet cocoa. For decoration: 1 bar of milk chocolate (or 1 packet of dark chocolate glaze Dr. Oetker), baking paper. Additional: 200g chopped walnut, Dr. Oetker decorating pencils, Dr. Oetker sweet snowflake decorations.