Nut and raisin cake

Nut and Raisin Cake: The Delight That Enchants Your Mornings

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12 slices

I present you with a simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe that will turn every morning into a special moment. The nut and raisin cake is a versatile dessert, perfect to be enjoyed alongside a cup of milk or your favorite coffee. This recipe brings back memories of time spent in grandma's kitchen, where every ingredient was added with love, and the aroma of freshly baked goods filled the entire house.

Necessary ingredients
- 4 large eggs (preferably organic for a richer taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (helps balance the sweetness)
- 200 g sugar (you can also use brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar (or you can use vanilla extract)
- 300 g flour (you can opt for whole flour for extra fiber)
- 200 ml oil (sunflower oil is ideal, but olive oil can also be used)
- 200 ml milk (plant-based milk is a good alternative)
- Zest of one orange (for an unmistakable citrus aroma)
- 30 g golden raisins (raisins add sweetness and texture)
- 50 g coarsely chopped walnuts (a healthy choice, rich in omega-3)
- 1 packet of baking powder (for a fluffy texture)

Preparing the cake
1. Preparing the pans: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. While the oven is heating, line two loaf pans with baking paper. This step will make it easier to remove the cake from the pan after baking, without sticking.

2. Beating the eggs: In a large bowl, add the eggs, salt, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the ingredients at medium speed until the mixture becomes frothy and the sugar dissolves completely, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Adding liquid ingredients: While mixing, pour the oil in a thin stream. Continue mixing to incorporate the oil into the mixture. Then, add the milk and mix until well combined.

4. Mixing dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. Add this mixture to the egg mixture and fold gently with a spatula, being careful not to overmix, to avoid developing gluten.

5. Adding flavors: Finally, add the orange zest, raisins, and walnuts. Gently fold with the spatula to evenly distribute the ingredients, but without losing the air in the mixture.

6. Pouring into pans: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans. You can place some walnuts or raisins on top for a more attractive appearance.

7. Baking: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes or until the cake passes the toothpick test. Check if it's baked by inserting a toothpick in the center - if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

8. Cooling: After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Serving: Once cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant look. The slices of nut and raisin cake are delicious both warm and cold. You can serve them alongside a cup of milk or a fragrant cup of coffee.

Useful tips
- If you want to add a touch of moisture, you can soak the raisins in warm water or rum for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the batter.
- Depending on your preferences, you can substitute walnuts with almonds or add chopped dark chocolate for a decadent taste.
- This cake keeps well at room temperature, covered, for 3-4 days, and can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Nutritional benefits
The nut and raisin cake is not only tasty but also nutritious. Nuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and raisins provide a good source of fiber and antioxidants. A slice of cake (about 100g) has around 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other dried fruits instead of raisins?
Yes, you can use dried apricots, cranberries, or figs, depending on your preferences.

2. Can I make the cake gluten-free?
Yes, replace the flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

3. What can I do with leftover cake?
You can transform it into a delicious cake pudding by adding it to milk or vanilla cream and quickly baking it in the oven for a comforting dessert.

This nut and raisin cake is more than just a simple dessert; it's a way to bring joy and warmth to your table. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or to indulge yourself every day, its unmistakable taste will surely become a family favorite. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 4 large eggs, 1/2 tsp salt, 200 g sugar, 2 packets vanilla sugar, 300 g flour, 200 ml oil, 200 ml milk, grated orange peel, 30 g golden raisins, 50 g coarsely chopped walnuts, 1 packet baking powder

 Tags:  cake with nuts and raisins check nuts raisins like at home recipes