Rolled with nuts

Nut Cake – a delicacy that combines the sweet taste of a fluffy base with the irresistible flavors of cocoa syrup and crunchy nuts. This recipe is perfect for special moments, but also for ordinary days when you crave a dessert that delights your senses. Moreover, it is easy to prepare, even for beginners! Let's venture together into the wonderful world of cooking and discover how we can create this delight.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the base:
- 6 fresh eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup milk (can also be plant-based milk for a lactose-free version)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 2 cups flour (you can adjust the amount according to the desired consistency)
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest (for an extra flavor)

For the syrup:
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 1/2 tablespoons high-quality cocoa
- 1 cube of butter (about 80g)
- 1 essence of rum (optional, but recommended for a deeper taste)
- Ground nuts (for coating)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the base
We start by preparing the base, which is the foundation of this recipe. In a large bowl, crack the 6 eggs and use a mixer to beat them well. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of sugar, continuing to mix until the mixture becomes frothy and the sugar dissolves completely. This step is essential for obtaining a fluffy base.

Then, incorporate 1 cup of milk, 2 packets of vanilla sugar, and the grated lemon zest. These ingredients not only improve the texture but also the flavor of the base, bringing a fresh note.

In another bowl, sift the 2 cups of flour together with the baking powder. Then, add the flour to the egg mixture, being careful to incorporate it gradually to avoid lumps. Mix until you obtain a homogeneous mixture, similar to that of a cake.

2. Baking the base
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Grease a rectangular baking pan with butter and place a sheet of parchment paper on the bottom to prevent sticking. Pour the base mixture into the pan and level the surface with a spatula.

Place the pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes. Check if it’s done using the toothpick test: if the toothpick comes out clean, the base is baked!

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the base cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely.

3. Preparing the syrup
While the base is cooling, we can prepare the delicious syrup. In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of water, 2 cups of sugar, and 4 tablespoons of cocoa. Place the saucepan over medium heat and let it boil, stirring occasionally with a whisk until the syrup thickens slightly.

Once the syrup is ready, remove it from the heat and add the cube of butter and the essence of rum. Mix well to allow the butter to melt completely, obtaining a smooth and shiny syrup. Let the syrup cool slightly, so it is bearable to touch.

4. Cutting and coating
Once the base has cooled completely, cut it into squares of suitable size. Take each piece, dip it in the cocoa syrup, ensuring it is well soaked, then coat it in ground nuts (or coconut if you prefer a more exotic version).

Arrange the treats on a nice platter, allowing them to cool completely. There you go, your dessert is ready to be enjoyed!

Serving Suggestions
Nut Cake is best served cold or at room temperature. It can be accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream for a delicious contrast of textures. Additionally, a glass of sweet wine or a flavored coffee perfectly complements this delicacy.

Nutritional Benefits
This nut cake recipe is a good source of carbohydrates, quick energy, and protein from the eggs. The nuts add healthy fats, and cocoa has numerous antioxidant benefits. However, considering the sugar content, it’s best to consume in moderation.

Possible Variations
If you want to experiment, you can substitute some of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier dessert. You can also add chocolate chips to the base mixture for an extra flavor boost.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of nuts?
Yes, you can use ground almonds or hazelnuts, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I store the cake?
It is recommended to keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

3. Can I use alternative sweeteners?
Yes, you can use natural or artificial sweeteners, but keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary.

4. Is it suitable for vegans?
For a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with a mixture of flax seeds or banana and use plant-based milk.

Nut Cake is not just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings joy and nostalgia. Every bite is an opportunity to savor beautiful moments with loved ones. So, embrace the art of cooking and enjoy this simple and delicious recipe!

 Ingredients: For the base: 6 eggs 1 1/2 cups sugar 1 cup milk 1 baking powder 2 packets vanilla sugar 2 cups flour (may need an extra tablespoon or two) 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel For the syrup: 2 cups water 2 cups sugar 4 tablespoons and 1/2 cocoa 1 cube butter 1 rum essence ground nuts