Nuts filled with chocolate cream and ground walnuts

Chocolate and Nut Cream Filled Walnuts

On a chilly day, nothing compares to the delightful aroma of walnuts filled with a smooth chocolate and nut cream. This traditional recipe has been passed down through generations and continues to bring joy to our homes. It’s the perfect dessert to enjoy with loved ones during special moments or simply as a little indulgence after a long day.

Preparation time: 40 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 20-25 walnuts

Ingredients needed:

For the walnut shells:
- 300 g flour
- 50 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- 1 pinch of salt
- 75 g melted butter
- 75 ml milk
- 1/2 teaspoon ammonium bicarbonate extinguished with 1 teaspoon vinegar

For the cream:
- 2 eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 150 g butter
- 150 g milk chocolate
- 1 teaspoon rum extract
- 100 g ground walnuts
- 90 g crushed dough scraps (from leftover dough)

Preparing the walnut shells:

1. Start by melting the butter in a small saucepan and let it cool to room temperature. This step is important to avoid cooking the egg prematurely when added to the dough.

2. Sift the flour into a large bowl. It’s advisable to sift 200 g of flour at first, as you may not need the entire amount. Sifted flour will make the dough lighter and airier.

3. Add the sugar, vanilla extract, egg, salt, cooled melted butter, milk, and the ammonium bicarbonate extinguished with vinegar. Mix all the ingredients by hand until you obtain an elastic and non-sticky dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.

4. Form a ball from the dough and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This resting time will help firm up the dough, making it easier to work with later.

5. Meanwhile, prepare the special walnut mold. Heat the mold on the stove and generously grease it with solid lard. This step will prevent the shells from sticking during baking.

6. Once the dough has rested, take small balls of dough and place one in each cavity of the mold. Bake the dough on both sides until golden brown. Continue this process until all the dough is used.

7. Once the walnut shells are baked, use a knife to trim any excess dough from the edges. This detail will give a uniform and elegant appearance.

Preparing the cream:

1. In a saucepan, place water on low heat to prepare a double boiler. Once the water starts to boil, you can begin making the cream.

2. In a small saucepan, whisk the eggs with the sugar until the mixture becomes creamy. Then, place the saucepan over the double boiler and continue stirring with a silicone spatula. This process will help cook the eggs and thicken the cream. Be careful not to let the cream boil, as the eggs may curdle.

3. When the cream has thickened, add the butter and chopped chocolate. Continue stirring until everything is completely melted and you have a smooth cream.

4. Remove the saucepan from the double boiler and add the rum extract and ground walnuts. Mix well to incorporate all the ingredients. Allow the cream to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it to firm up slightly. This will make filling the walnut shells easier.

Filling the walnuts:

1. Once the cream has cooled and firmed up, take the walnut shells and generously fill them with the chocolate cream. Use a teaspoon or piping bag for a more elegant finish.

2. If desired, you can dust the filled walnuts with powdered sugar for a more festive look and an extra sweet taste.

3. Arrange the filled walnuts on a platter and let them cool completely before serving.

Helpful tips:

- You can customize this recipe by adding flavors such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the chocolate cream for a more complex taste.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the chocolate with white chocolate or even a hazelnut spread.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of ground nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, to achieve a different flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

These walnuts are not only delicious but also nutritious. Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants. Chocolate contains flavonoids that may offer heart health benefits. Additionally, moderate consumption of sweets like this recipe can be part of a balanced diet.

Ideal pairings:

To elevate the experience of serving these filled walnuts, you can pair them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a fragrant tea. A sweet wine or fine liqueur could add an elegant touch to gatherings with friends or family.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of flour for the walnut shells?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or almond flour for a gluten-free option, but the texture will be different.

2. How can I store the filled walnuts?
Keep the walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator to keep them fresh longer.

3. Can I freeze the filled walnuts?
Yes, you can freeze the filled walnuts. Be sure to package them well to prevent freezer burn. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before consuming.

So, don’t hesitate to try this recipe for walnuts filled with chocolate and nut cream. It’s a dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a touch of nostalgia and tradition in every bite. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and relish the final result of your hard work!

 Ingredients: Nut shells: 300 g flour, 50 g sugar, vanilla essence, 1 egg, 1 pinch of salt, 75 g melted butter, 75 ml milk, 1/2 teaspoon ammonia quenched with 1 teaspoon vinegar. Cream: 2 eggs, 150 g sugar, 150 g butter, 150 g milk chocolate, rum essence, 100 g ground walnuts, 90 g ground dough shells (that’s what’s left).