Nut Roll

Nut Roll – A Traditional Delight for Unforgettable Moments

The nut roll is more than just a simple dessert; it is a tradition that brings family and friends together around the table, evoking childhood memories and festive moments. This delicious recipe, inspired by traditional techniques, is easy to make and will bring a touch of magic to your home.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 50 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total: 2 hours
Servings: 8-10 servings

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 500 g wheat flour
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons of oil
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (25 g)
- Grated zest of one lemon
- Vanilla essence (1-2 drops)
- Warm milk, as needed

For the filling:
- 200 g ground walnuts
- 5 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa
- Rum essence (1-2 drops)
- ½ glass of red wine (a sweet or semi-sweet wine is ideal)

For brushing:
- 1 egg yolk
- A little milk
- Chocolate for decoration (optional)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the yeast
Start by dissolving the fresh yeast in 100 ml of warm milk and adding a tablespoon of sugar. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential to activate the yeast, so don't skip it!

Step 2: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, eggs, oil, sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla essence. Add the activated yeast and start mixing the ingredients. It is important to gradually use the warm milk until you obtain an elastic dough that no longer sticks to your hands. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes. This step will ensure a fluffy and airy texture for your nut roll.

Step 3: Rising the dough
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes. You will notice how the dough doubles in volume, preparing to be filled with the delicious walnut filling.

Step 4: Preparing the filling
Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix the ground walnuts with sugar, cocoa, and rum essence. Then, gradually add the red wine, mixing well until you obtain a homogeneous and easy-to-spread mixture. If you prefer a denser filling, you can reduce the amount of wine.

Step 5: Shaping the nut roll
After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal pieces. Roll out each piece on a floured surface, forming a rectangle. Spread each rectangle with the walnut filling, leaving a few centimeters free at the edges to roll the dough without breaking it. Roll each rectangle, forming two logs.

Step 6: Placing in the pan
Gently braid the two logs together and place them in a greased pan. Cover the pan with a towel and let the nut roll rise for another 20 minutes.

Step 7: Baking the nut roll
Before placing it in the oven, mix the egg yolk with a little milk and brush the nut roll with this mixture to achieve a golden crust. If desired, you can add grated chocolate on top for extra flavor. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the nut roll for 40-50 minutes until it turns golden and smells divine. Check if it is done using a toothpick: if it comes out clean, the nut roll is perfectly baked.

Step 8: Cooling and serving
Once the nut roll is ready, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. It is best served cold, but you can also enjoy it warm, alongside a cup of warm milk or fragrant tea.

Useful tips:
- You can replace the red wine with orange juice for a non-alcoholic version while maintaining the delicate flavor.
- If you want to diversify the filling, you can try adding raisins, Turkish delight, or chopped chocolate to the walnut filling.
- The nut roll keeps well in plastic wrap at room temperature for a few days, but it is most delicious in the first 2 days after baking.

Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 350
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. Replace 25 g of fresh yeast with about 8 g of dry yeast.

2. How can I enhance the flavor of the nut roll?
By adding a little cardamom or cinnamon to the dough or the walnut filling, you will achieve an even more refined taste.

3. What other recipes can I try with the nut roll dough?
You can use the same dough to make brioche, filled rolls, or even sweet bread.

The nut roll is a true symbol of culinary traditions, and this recipe will provide you with an exceptional result, perfect for any celebration or gathering with loved ones. Don't hesitate to experiment and personalize the recipe to your taste!

 Ingredients: DOUGH: 500 g flour 2 eggs 3 tablespoons oil 3 tablespoons sugar 1 cube fresh yeast grated zest of one lemon vanilla essence milk CREAM 200 g ground walnuts cocoa rum essence 5 tablespoons sugar 1/2 cup red wine GREASE 1 egg yolk a little milk chocolate decoration

 Tags:  sweet bread christmas recipes