Egg white cake with nuts
Egg White Walnut Cake - An Irresistible Delight
There is nothing more comforting and full of love than a homemade cake. Today, I will guide you through the necessary steps to prepare a delicious egg white walnut cake, a dessert that combines light textures and rich flavors, perfect for any occasion. With a little patience and love, you will achieve an impressive result that will delight both the eyes and the taste buds.
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 90 minutes
Number of Servings: 10-12
Ingredients:
For the layers:
- 9 egg whites
- 12 tablespoons of sugar
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- 120 g ground walnuts
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
For the caramel:
- 150 g sugar
- 1 buttered plate (for cooling)
For the vanilla cream:
- 1 packet of vanilla cream
- 250 ml milk
- 2 egg yolks
- 50 g margarine (or butter)
For the whipped cream:
- 500 ml liquid cream
- 130 g roasted and crushed walnuts
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
Step 1: Preparing the Layers
1. Preparing the Egg Whites: Start by carefully separating the egg whites from the yolks. Make sure the bowl is clean and dry, as any trace of fat will prevent the egg whites from whipping correctly. Beat the egg whites with a mixer on high speed until foamy.
2. Adding Sugar: When the egg whites begin to foam, gradually add the 12 tablespoons of sugar. Continue mixing until the egg whites become stiff and shiny, forming firm peaks. This step is essential for achieving an airy texture in the cake layers.
3. Incorporating Dry Ingredients: Sift 3 tablespoons of flour and the baking powder over the egg whites. Add the ground walnuts as well. Use a spatula to gently fold in, being careful not to deflate the foam. The movements should be delicate and from top to bottom.
4. Baking the Layers: Prepare a round cake pan, greased and lined with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the pan and level the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 20-30 minutes, or until the layer is golden and passes the toothpick test. Repeat the process with the other 2 layers.
Step 2: Preparing the Caramel
5. Caramelizing the Sugar: In a saucepan, caramelize 150 g of sugar over low heat. Be careful not to burn it; stir gently to achieve an even golden color. Once caramelized, pour it onto the buttered plate and let it cool completely. This will be the secret ingredient that adds a deep flavor to the cake.
Step 3: Preparing the Vanilla Cream
6. Vanilla Cream: Follow the instructions on the vanilla cream packet, adding 250 ml of milk. When the cream has thickened, remove it from the heat and add the 2 egg yolks and margarine. Mix well to achieve a smooth and homogeneous cream. This cream will add a layer of richness and flavor.
Step 4: Preparing the Whipped Cream
7. Whipping the Cream: In a large bowl, whip the 500 ml of liquid cream until it becomes firm. Add the vanilla sugar and crushed caramelized sugar. You can also try adding the crushed roasted walnuts to this cream for a crunchy texture.
Step 5: Assembling the Cake
8. Assembling the Cake: Place the first egg white layer on a serving platter. Add a generous layer of vanilla cream, followed by a layer of whipped cream. Continue with the second layer, repeating the process. Finally, place the last egg white layer on top and decorate with the remaining whipped cream. You can opt for a simple or more elaborate decoration, depending on your preferences.
Step 6: Serving
9. Cooling and Serving: It is recommended to refrigerate the cake for a few hours before serving, so the flavors meld harmoniously. When you are ready to serve, you can also add some leftover caramel pieces on top for a special touch.
Practical Tips
- Choosing Walnuts: Use fresh, high-quality walnuts for the best flavor. Roasted walnuts add an intense flavor and a pleasant crunch.
- Ideal Texture: Make sure the egg whites are at room temperature to achieve a more stable foam.
- Variations: You can experiment with different flavors for the vanilla cream, adding almond or lemon extract for a distinct note.
Nutritional Benefits
This cake is rich in protein due to the egg whites and contains healthy fats from the walnuts. It is also a lighter option compared to traditional flour-based cakes, perfect for those who want a less caloric dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use brown sugar?: Yes, brown sugar will add a note of caramelization and a deeper flavor.
- What can I do with the leftover yolks?: The yolks can be used to make mayonnaise or sauces, or they can be added to other cake recipes.
Serving Recommendations
This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee, but you can also serve it with warm chocolate sauce or vanilla ice cream for a pleasant temperature contrast.
Regardless of the occasion, this egg white walnut cake will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Don’t forget to share this recipe with those who love cooking, as it is a true culinary treasure, full of love and good taste. Enjoy!
Ingredients: 9 egg whites, 12 tablespoons of sugar, 3 tablespoons of flour, 120 g ground walnuts, 1 baking powder, 150 g sugar, 1 packet of vanilla cream, 2 egg yolks, 50 g margarine (butter), 130 g roasted and crushed walnuts, 250 ml milk, 500 ml whipped cream, 1 packet of vanilla sugar.