Snails with nuts
Nut Rolls - A Delicacy Easy to Prepare
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: Approximately 2 hours
Number of servings: 12-16 rolls
Nut rolls are a traditional dessert, perfect for any occasion, from a simple afternoon snack to a festive meal. This recipe combines fluffy textures and rich nut flavors, quickly becoming a favorite for everyone. Preparing them is a pleasant activity that can be done together with loved ones, turning cooking into an unforgettable experience.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 500 g flour (ideally use type 000 flour, which provides a finer dough)
- 25 g fresh yeast (or 8 g dry yeast)
- 3 tablespoons sugar (you can use brown sugar for a more caramelized taste)
- 50 ml oil (sunflower oil is a good choice)
- 4 egg yolks (for a rich texture)
- 200 ml milk (use whole milk for a creamy taste)
- 100 ml warm water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Grated zest of one lemon (for an extra flavor)
For the nut cream:
- 200 g soft butter (let it sit at room temperature before use)
- 100 g sugar (again, you can opt for brown sugar)
- 250 g ground walnuts (make sure it is freshly ground for an intense taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour with the salt and make a well in the center. In another container, dissolve the yeast in the warm water and add 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mixing the wet ingredients:
In a bowl, beat the egg yolks, add the warm milk, oil, and the remaining sugar. Pour the yeast mixture and wet ingredients over the flour.
3. Kneading:
Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If it is too sticky, add a little flour. Ideally, you want to achieve a dough that pulls away from your hands.
4. Rising:
Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, until it doubles in volume (about 1 hour).
5. Preparing the cream:
In a bowl, beat the soft butter with the sugar until creamy. Add the ground walnuts and mix well to obtain a smooth cream.
6. Shaping the rolls:
Once the dough has risen, divide it into 4 equal parts. Roll each part into a rectangular sheet about 1 cm thick. Spread the nut cream evenly over each sheet.
7. Rolling:
Roll each sheet tightly, then cut the roll into pieces about 4 cm long. Make sure the cuts are clean for a uniform appearance of the rolls.
8. Placing in the baking tray:
Grease a baking tray with butter and sprinkle a little flour. Place the cut pieces next to each other, leaving a small space between them to allow for rising.
9. Second rising:
Let the rolls rise again for 30 minutes, covered with a towel.
10. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden. Let them cool slightly before removing from the tray.
Practical Tips
- Checking the yeast: Make sure the yeast is active. If the yeast mixture does not become frothy, it may be old.
- Ingredient temperature: All ingredients should be at room temperature to ensure better homogenization.
- Variations: You can add raisins or ground chocolate to the nut cream to diversify the flavor. You can also use almonds or hazelnuts instead of walnuts for a different taste.
- Storage: The rolls can be kept in an airtight container for a few days, and to refresh them, you can lightly heat them in the oven.
Nutritional Benefits
This dessert contains nutrient-rich ingredients. Walnuts are excellent sources of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, while eggs and milk provide important calcium and vitamins. However, being a dessert, it is best consumed in moderation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use dry yeast? Yes, but make sure to use the correct amount, which is one packet of 8 g for 500 g of flour.
- How can I make the rolls fluffier? Make sure to knead the dough well and let it rise sufficiently to develop the gluten.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert can be enjoyed plain or dusted with powdered sugar. It can be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee, but the flavors are enhanced with a caramel sauce or vanilla ice cream.
Conclusion
Nut rolls are not just a delicious dessert but also a wonderful way to bring family and friends together around the table. Whether you choose to prepare them for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this recipe will surely become one of your favorites. Experiment with ingredients and flavors, find your preferred version, and enjoy every bite!
Ingredients: For the dough: 500 g flour, 25 g yeast, 3 tablespoons of sugar, 50 ml oil, 4 egg yolks, 200 ml milk, 100 ml warm water, 1/2 teaspoon salt, grated lemon zest. For the cream: 200 g soft butter, 100 g sugar, 250 g ground walnuts.
