Crown with walnut and cocoa

The walnut and cocoa crown is a delicious dessert, perfect for special occasions or to bring a touch of joy to ordinary days. This simple and quick recipe will impress everyone and is an excellent choice for sweet lovers. The total preparation time is approximately 2 hours, including the rising time, and this recipe will yield 12 servings. Let’s discover together the necessary steps to prepare this wonderful crown.

Ingredients:
- 700 g flour
- 40 g fresh yeast
- 200 g sugar
- 300 ml milk (preferably warm)
- 150 ml oil or melted butter
- 2 eggs
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Flavors: grated lemon peel, grated orange peel, rum essence, and vanilla
- 1 handful of raisins

For the filling:
- 200 g ground walnuts
- 1 tablespoon cocoa
- 200 g sugar
- 2 egg whites
- 1 handful of coconut
- 1 egg for brushing the crown

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients, except for the milk and butter, are at room temperature. It is recommended to leave them overnight to achieve better dough rising.

2. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in warm milk, adding a tablespoon of sugar from the 200 g. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy.

3. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, salt, grated lemon and orange peel, egg whites, and oil (or melted butter). Add the yeast mixture and eggs. Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If it is too sticky, add a little more flour.

4. Rising the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in volume.

5. Preparing the filling: In a separate bowl, mix the ground walnuts with cocoa, sugar, coconut, and whipped egg whites. This filling will give the crown a rich and aromatic flavor.

6. Assembling the crown: After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into 3-4 equal parts. Roll each piece into a thin sheet, evenly add the filling, and roll them tightly. Then braid the rolls together to form a crown. Arrange it in a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

7. Second rising: Let the crown rise again for 30 minutes, covered with a damp towel.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Brush the crown with beaten egg for a golden crust. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Serving: Let the crown cool on a wire rack. You can dust it with powdered sugar before serving for a festive look. It is perfect alongside a cup of coffee or tea.

Useful tips:
- You can add other ingredients to the filling, such as chopped chocolate or dried fruits, for a personal touch.
- If you want a fluffier crown, try using whole milk and quality butter.
- Make sure not to open the oven door in the first 20 minutes of baking, to allow the dough to rise evenly.

The walnut and cocoa crown is not just a dessert, but a true culinary experience. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments shared with loved ones!

 Ingredients: 700 g flour, 40 g fresh yeast, 200 g sugar, 300 ml milk, 150 ml oil or melted butter, 2 eggs, 3 egg yolks, 1 teaspoon of salt, flavors, grated lemon zest, grated orange zest, rum essence, vanilla, 1 handful of raisins. For the filling: 200 g ground walnuts, 1 tablespoon cocoa, 200 g sugar, 2 egg whites, 1 handful of coconut, 1 egg for brushing the crown.