Nut and cream layered cake
Fine walnut cake recipe with vanilla and cocoa cream
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 12
If you are looking for a refined and flavorful dessert, this walnut cake is the perfect choice! With delicate layers of pastry, a rich cream, and crispy caramelized nuts, this dessert will surely become a favorite in your family. Plus, it is a simple recipe, perfect for special occasions or to treat yourself on the weekend. Let's get ready!
A short story about walnut cake
Walnut cakes have a long tradition, being appreciated in many cultures for their rich texture and intense flavor. Walnuts, with their distinctive taste and nutritional properties, transform any dessert into an explosion of flavor. This recipe combines classic preparation techniques with quality ingredients, resulting in a dessert that not only looks good but also harmoniously blends flavors.
Ingredients
For the pastry:
- 10 egg whites
- 20 tablespoons of sugar
- 10 tablespoons of breadcrumbs (preferably from white bread)
- 10 tablespoons of roasted and ground walnuts
For the cream:
- 10 egg yolks
- 200 g sugar
- 3 tablespoons of milk
- 250 g butter (at room temperature)
- Vanilla extract (to taste)
- 3 tablespoons of cocoa
For decoration:
- 125 g walnuts (half roasted, half raw)
- 80 g sugar (for caramelizing)
Preparation technique
1. Preparing the pastry:
- Start by preheating the oven to 160°C (low heat). This step is essential to ensure even baking of the pastry.
- In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer to achieve a firm foam. Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, continuing to mix until the egg whites become shiny and form stiff peaks.
- Carefully fold in the breadcrumbs and ground walnuts into the egg white mixture using a spatula, to avoid losing air from the foam.
2. Baking the pastry:
- Divide the mixture into two equal parts. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and pour in the first half of the mixture. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pastry is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Repeat with the second half of the mixture.
- After baking, let the pastries cool completely in the tray.
3. Preparing the cream:
- In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the sugar and the 3 tablespoons of milk. Place the bowl over a double boiler and stir continuously until the cream thickens (about 10-15 minutes). This technique will ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- Once the cream has cooled, incorporate the diced butter, mixing until smooth. Divide the cream into two equal parts. In one part, add the vanilla extract, and in the other, the cocoa.
4. Caramelizing the walnuts:
- In a skillet, melt the sugar over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Once the sugar becomes liquid and golden, add the walnut pieces and quickly stir to coat the nuts with caramel. Pour the mixture onto a piece of parchment paper and let it cool. Once solidified, cut the caramelized nuts into larger pieces.
5. Assembling the cake:
- On the first layer of pastry, spread the vanilla cream. Carefully place the second layer of pastry on top. Spread the cocoa cream on top and sprinkle with caramelized walnuts.
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to blend perfectly.
Serving suggestions
This cake is delicious served plain, but you can accompany it with vanilla ice cream or a fruit sauce for a pleasant contrast. Additionally, a herbal tea or an espresso will perfectly complement the sweet taste of the dessert.
Useful tips
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a uniform cream texture.
- You can experiment with different types of nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, to add a personal touch.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar in the cream.
Nutritional information
This walnut cake may contain approximately 350 calories per serving, but it is rich in healthy fats from walnuts, proteins, and antioxidants. It is an excellent choice for an occasional dessert, thanks to its natural ingredients.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use unsalted nuts?
- Yes, but roasted nuts add a more intense flavor and a crunchy texture.
2. How can I store the cake?
- Keep the cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, to maintain freshness.
3. Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
- Yes, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with a gluten-free version, such as almond flour.
With this walnut cake recipe, you have all the ingredients needed to impress anyone! Enjoy cooking and savoring this delicious dessert with your loved ones. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: For the sheets: 10 egg whites, 10 tablespoons of breadcrumbs, 20 tablespoons of sugar, 10 tablespoons of roasted and finely chopped walnuts. For the cream: 10 egg yolks, 200 g sugar, 3 tablespoons of milk, 250 g butter, vanilla extract, 3 tablespoons of cocoa. For decoration: 125 g walnuts, 80 g sugar.
