Walnut layer cake with pastry cream

Nut cake with custard cream: a sophisticated dessert, perfect for any special occasion

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12

The history of nut cake with custard cream is rich in flavor and tradition. This dessert has been enjoyed over time, symbolizing festive gatherings and moments of joy. The combination of delicate nut layers with fine cream transforms it into an irresistible delight, and today I will show you how to prepare it step by step to achieve a perfect result.

Necessary ingredients:

For the layers:
- 300 g egg whites (approximately 10-12 egg whites, depending on the size of the eggs)
- 150 g granulated sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 200 g ground walnuts
- 200-250 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional, for a cocoa layer)
- Rum and vanilla essences (to taste)

For the cream:
- 1 packet of custard cream (or pudding)
- 500 ml milk
- Vanilla essence (or other flavors, such as orange, cocoa, or coffee)

For the syrup:
- 1 cup of water
- 2 sugar cubes
- Rum essence (to taste)

For the glaze:
- 130 g chocolate with 52% cocoa
- 100 ml liquid cream

Step 1: Preparing the layers

Start by preheating the oven to 180°C.

1. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until you obtain a firm foam. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to mix until the mixture becomes shiny and firm.
2. Add the vanilla sugar and essences (rum and vanilla) according to how flavorful you want the base to be. These are essential for adding extra taste.
3. Gently fold in the ground walnuts using a spatula, being careful not to lose the air from the egg whites.
4. Sift the flour together with the baking soda and gradually incorporate them into the egg white mixture, mixing gently until well combined.

If you have multiple pans of the same size, it will be much easier to bake all the layers simultaneously. Divide the mixture into 3 equal parts, weighing each portion to get uniform layers (approximately 500 g each).

5. Line a 22 cm diameter pan with parchment paper. Pour the first part of the mixture and bake for 10-15 minutes until the edges turn slightly golden. Repeat the process for the other two layers, adding a tablespoon of cocoa to the last mixture.

Step 2: Preparing the cream

While the layers cool, you can prepare the custard cream:

1. In a cold bowl, pour the milk and add the packet of custard cream and vanilla essence. Mix well until you obtain a smooth cream, similar to pudding.
2. Place the cream in the refrigerator for a few minutes to thicken. After it has cooled, mix again to achieve a uniform texture.

Step 3: Preparing the syrup

1. In a small saucepan, bring the water and sugar to a boil. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Turn off the heat and add the rum essence. This syrup will add a delicious flavor to the cake layers.

Step 4: Assembling the cake

1. Place the first nut layer on a plate and evenly soak it with the prepared syrup.
2. Spread some of the custard cream over the first layer.
3. Place the cocoa layer, soak it, then add another layer of cream.
4. Add the last nut layer, which you will also soak.

Let the cake chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set well.

Step 5: Preparing the glaze

1. In a small saucepan, heat the liquid cream until just before boiling.
2. Break the chocolate into small pieces and place it in a bowl. When the cream starts to boil, pour it over the chocolate and let it sit for a few seconds to melt.
3. Mix well until you obtain a smooth glaze.

Step 6: Finishing the cake

1. Remove the cake from the refrigerator and pour the chocolate glaze over it, covering the entire surface evenly.
2. You can decorate the cake with the reserved cream, creating flowers or other decorative shapes on the edges or on top.

Serving suggestions and variations

This nut cake with custard cream pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea, making it an ideal dessert for a relaxing afternoon. You can also serve it with vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream.

If you want to experiment, you can add different flavors to the cream, such as cocoa or coffee, or replace the walnuts with ground almonds or hazelnuts.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use only egg yolks for the layers?
No, this recipe is based on egg whites, which give the layers a light and airy texture.

- How can I store the cake?
The cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered, to prevent drying out.

- Can I use milk chocolate for the glaze?
Of course! Milk chocolate will give a sweeter taste, but make sure you enjoy the extra sweetness.

Nutritional benefits

This cake contains walnuts, which are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants. Dark chocolate also has health benefits, being rich in flavonoids. However, like any dessert, it should be consumed in moderation.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to try this delicious nut cake with custard cream recipe! I assure you it will be appreciated by everyone who tastes it. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: For the dough: 300g egg whites, 150g sugar, 1 packet of vanilla sugar, a pinch of salt, 200g ground walnuts, 200-250g flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 tablespoon cocoa, essence of rum and vanilla. For the cream: 1 packet of pastry cream, 500ml milk, vanilla essence (you can replace vanilla with other flavors: like orange, cocoa, coffee...). Syrup: 1 cup of water, 2 sugar cubes, essence of rum. Glaze: 130g chocolate 52% cocoa, 100ml liquid cream.