Nut roll

Nut Roll: A Fluffy and Aromatic Delicacy

The nut roll is a true treasure of culinary tradition, a dessert that reminds us of holidays and moments spent with loved ones. Preparing this nut roll is a fulfilling activity, and the result will reward you abundantly for your efforts. So, let's get moving and discover together how to make a fluffy and aromatic nut roll, perfect for any occasion.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Rising Time: 2 hours
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Number of Servings: 2 nut rolls

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 2 packets of dry yeast
- 375 ml warm milk (about 40-45°C)
- 160 g sugar
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 2 egg yolks (at room temperature)
- 780 g flour (ideal for nut rolls)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Grated zest of one lemon (for extra flavor)
- 200 g butter (at room temperature, soft)

For the filling:
- 5 egg whites
- 12 tablespoons of sugar
- 300 g ground walnuts
- Rum essence (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activating the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the dry yeast with 50 ml of warm milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to work wonders in your dough.

2. Preparing the Dough: In a large bowl, add the two eggs, egg yolks, the rest of the milk, and sugar. Mix well to combine the ingredients. Then, add the activated yeast mixture and blend.

3. Adding the Ingredients Gradually: Incorporate the flour and salt, mixing until the dough begins to come together. It's time to test your patience: add the soft butter gradually and knead the dough for 10-15 minutes. It should become elastic and no longer stick to your hands. If you feel overwhelmed, don't hesitate to ask someone stronger for help – it's a fun activity to do together!

4. Rising the Dough: Once the dough is well-kneaded, shape it into a ball and place it in a large bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in volume (about 2 hours).

5. Preparing the Filling: While the dough is rising, you can prepare the filling. Beat the egg whites until stiff, then gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a glossy meringue. Gently fold in the ground walnuts and rum essence.

6. Shaping the Nut Rolls: After the dough has risen, divide it into two (or three if you've increased the quantities). On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece of dough into a rectangular sheet. Spread each sheet with the walnut filling, being careful not to reach the edges, then roll tightly.

7. Rising the Nut Rolls: Place each nut roll in baking trays lined with parchment paper. Cover them again with a towel and let them rise until they double in size (about 1 hour).

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Brush the nut rolls with an egg yolk mixed with a little milk for a golden crust. Bake the nut rolls for 10 minutes at moderate heat, then reduce the temperature to 160°C. Bake for another 35 minutes, or until golden and a stick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

9. Cooling and Serving: Once baked, remove the nut rolls from the oven and let them cool in the trays for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Each slice is an explosion of flavors and textures!

Useful Tips

- Choosing the Flour: Use type 000 or 650 flour, which has a higher gluten content, ideal for nut rolls.
- Essences and Flavorings: You can experiment with different flavors by adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling.
- Variations: Instead of walnuts, you can use ground almonds or chocolate for a diversified nut roll.

Nutritional Benefits

The nut roll is not just a delicious dessert, but also a source of proteins and healthy fats from the nuts. It also provides carbohydrates that supply energy, making it an ideal dessert for holidays or moments of indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use fresh yeast? Yes, you can replace dry yeast with fresh yeast, being careful to use double the amount.
- How can I keep the nut roll fresh? You can keep it in a paper bag or an airtight container at room temperature for a few days.
- Can I freeze the nut roll? Absolutely! The nut roll can be frozen; it’s best to slice it and wrap it well before putting it in the freezer.

The nut roll is more than just a simple dessert; it is a symbol of tradition and family reunion. So, don't hesitate to prepare it, enjoy it, and share the joy with your loved ones!

 Ingredients: Dough for 2 sweet breads: 2 packets of dry yeast, 375 ml of warm milk, 160 g of sugar, 2 large eggs at room temperature, 2 egg yolks at room temperature, 780 g of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, grated zest of one lemon, 200 g of butter. For the filling: 5 egg whites, 12 tablespoons of sugar, ground nuts, rum essence.

 Tags:  sweet bread nut dough