Sweet bread
Fluffy Walnut and Cocoa Cake - A Family Recipe
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 2 hours (total)
Baking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 2 medium cakes or 4 small cakes
The cake is more than just a simple dessert; it is a symbol of tradition and family reunions during special moments. This recipe is the result of years of trials and refinements, inspired by recipes passed down from generation to generation. Its rich taste, the aromas of vanilla and rum, along with the delicious filling of walnuts and cocoa, will transform any meal into a true celebration.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 300 ml milk
- 700-750 gr flour (preferably type 650)
- 40 gr fresh yeast
- 3 eggs (2 yolks and 1 white)
- 200 ml oil (sunflower or olive)
- Zest of one lemon
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 tablespoon of rum
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Sugar (1 teaspoon for activating the yeast)
For the filling cream:
- 1 cup of sugar
- 2 egg whites
- 2-3 tablespoons of cocoa (to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons of rum
- Ground walnuts (or chopped, as preferred)
- Raisins and Turkish delight (optional, to taste)
Preparation:
1. Activating the yeast: In a small cup, add 3-4 tablespoons of warm milk, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and sprinkle a little flour on top. Mix gently and let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes until a foam forms.
2. Preparing the milk: In a pot, bring the milk to a boil (300 ml) together with 100 gr of sugar. Let it boil for a few minutes, then remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly (about 5 minutes).
3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the flour and make a well in the center. Pour the warm milk over the flour, then add the activated yeast, the yolks mixed with a little salt, the beaten egg white, and the flavors (lemon zest, vanilla, and rum). Mix with a wooden spoon until the ingredients begin to combine.
4. Kneading the dough: Start kneading the dough by gradually adding the warm oil. If you are using a bread machine, start the kneading program. If kneading by hand, continue to work the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.
5. First rising: Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in volume (about 1 hour).
6. Preparing the filling: Beat the 2 egg whites with a cup of sugar until stiff peaks form. Add the cocoa, rum, and walnuts (you can also add raisins or Turkish delight if desired). Mix gently until well combined.
7. Shaping the cakes: After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts (or four for smaller cakes). Roll each piece out by hand on a clean surface, adding the filling cream evenly. Carefully twist the dough to form a roll, being careful not to let the filling spill out.
8. Second rising: Place the cakes in trays lined with baking paper or greased with oil. Cover them again with a towel and let them rise for another hour.
9. Baking: Preheat the oven to a low temperature (170°C) and bake the cakes for about an hour. Check from time to time, and if you notice they are browning too quickly, you can cover the trays with aluminum foil.
10. Cooling: After the cakes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the trays for 10-15 minutes, then transfer them to a rack to cool completely.
Practical tips:
- Flour: Choose type 650 flour for a fluffier dough, but you can also experiment with other types.
- Rising: Make sure the dough is in a warm but not hot environment; an ideal place is near a radiator or in a warm closed room.
- Oil: If you want a richer taste, you can replace part of the oil with melted butter.
- Filling: Be creative with the filling! You can add chocolate, candied fruits, or even caramel for a different taste and texture.
Nutritional benefits: Homemade cake is rich in carbohydrates and proteins due to the eggs and walnuts, and can be a quick source of energy. Walnuts add healthy fats, while cocoa is a powerful antioxidant.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I replace fresh yeast with dry yeast? Yes, use about 14 gr of dry yeast instead of 40 gr of fresh yeast.
- How long can the cake be stored? The cake keeps well in a plastic bag for 3-4 days, but is best enjoyed fresh.
Serving: You can serve the cake plain, dusted with powdered sugar, alongside a fragrant tea or a sweet wine. It is perfect for festive meals or as a delicious snack throughout the day.
This fluffy cake with walnuts and cocoa is not just a recipe, but a cooking experience that will bring you joy and beautiful memories with your loved ones. Try it and let it become the star of your table!
Ingredients: I prepared in the bread machine 3 eggs 300 ml milk 700-750 g flour 200 ml oil lemon zest, vanilla, rum 40 g yeast Cream 1 cup sugar 2 egg whites cocoa rum nuts, raisins, Turkish delight (according to preferences)
