Alcazars

Alcazari: Pancakes with Walnut Cream

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 4 hours 45 minutes (including cooling time)
Number of servings: 12-15 servings

Welcome to the world of delicious alcazades! This recipe for walnut cream pancakes is not just a dessert, but a true culinary experience, combining exquisite textures and flavors. The origins of this recipe are shrouded in mystery, but it is well known for its flavor and elegance. Get ready to impress friends and family with these delights that can become the star of any event!

Ingredients

For the pancakes:
- 9 egg whites
- 300 g granulated sugar
- 450 g ground walnuts

For the cream:
- 1 kg quality butter (or margarine, but I strongly recommend butter for an authentic taste)
- 500 g sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa

For decoration:
- 100-150 g ground walnuts

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the pancakes
1. Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. It's essential to have the oven well heated to get fluffy and flavorful pancakes.
2. In a large bowl, whisk the 9 egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff. This process is crucial, as well-beaten egg whites will give the pancakes a light and airy texture. Use an electric mixer to save time and effort.
3. Add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, continuing to mix until you get a stiff foam that doesn't come away from the bowl when you turn it upside down. This is a sign that you've beaten the egg whites correctly.
4. Incorporate the ground walnuts with a spatula, using gentle strokes so as not to deflate the foam.
5. Put the mixture into a pos or strong bag, from which you have cut a small tip. Form small mogaldete, 2-3 cm apart, on a baking tray lined with greased baking paper. Use a spoon dipped in water to level them out and give them a round shape, thus preventing sticking.
6. Bake the patties for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. When done, use a wide-bladed knife to carefully transfer them to a platter. Let cool at room temperature, not in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Make the custard
1. Add 500 g sugar and 100 ml water to a saucepan. Place over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely melted.
2. Once the sugar has dissolved, add the butter, stirring until completely melted. It is important to use quality butter as it will influence the final flavor of the cream.
3. Add the 2 tablespoons of cocoa and continue stirring for 25-30 minutes, until the cream thickens and becomes chunky, with a texture similar to thick cream.
4. When the cream is done, take it off the heat and let it cool. Once cool, refrigerate for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent it from forming a crust.

Step 3: Assemble the cookies
1. Once the custard has set, it's time to fill the patties. Place a teaspoon of cream between two patties and press gently.
2. Twist each cookie through the ground walnuts, adding a crunchy and delicious touch.
3. If any cream remains, you can add a teaspoon of water and simmer for 4-5 minutes to make a thin glaze. Use it to glaze cakes as desired.

Serving and presentation suggestions
These walnut cream pancakes are perfect to serve at a festive meal or as a fancy dessert at a gathering with friends. You can pair them with a flavored coffee or delicate tea, and for an interesting contrast, try them with a sweet wine or fruit liqueur.

Nutritional benefits
Although these cookies are high in calories, they contain nutritious ingredients like nuts, which are excellent sources of healthy protein, beneficial fats and antioxidants. When eaten in moderation, pecans can be a nutritious and enjoyable treat.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute nut with another ingredient?
Yes, you can experiment with ground hazelnuts or almonds, but the taste and texture will change.
2. How can I keep the cookies longer?
If you keep them in an airtight container in a cool place, they can keep for up to a week without losing their taste and texture.
3. Can I use canned egg whites?
It is recommended to use fresh egg whites as they give a better, more airy texture.

These walnut cream pancakes are truly an exquisite dessert that combines tradition and innovation. I wish you enjoy every step of the preparation and delight your loved ones with these delights!