Caramelized Nut Cake

The caramelized walnut cake is a refined dessert, perfect for any special occasion or simply to sweeten an ordinary day. This recipe not only offers a delicious combination of flavors but also a contrasting texture that makes every bite a true pleasure. The origins of this cake are lost in the mists of time, but it has always been appreciated for its richness and for the way the caramelized walnuts add a touch of magic to every serving.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12-16

Ingredients

For the caramelized walnuts:
- 100 g walnut kernels
- 100 g sugar

For the base:
- 7 egg whites
- 150 g sugar
- 200 g roasted and ground walnuts
- 1 tablespoon vanilla sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 50 g dark chocolate (grated)

For the cream:
- 7 egg yolks
- 100 g sugar
- 240 ml milk
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 200 g butter (at room temperature)
- vanilla essence (to taste)

Step by Step

Step 1: Caramelizing the walnuts
Start by caramelizing the walnuts, a process that may seem intimidating but is quite simple. In a pan, add the sugar and place it over medium heat. Stir gently to help the sugar melt evenly. When the sugar becomes liquid and takes on a golden hue, add the walnut kernels. Make sure the walnuts are well coated with caramel, stirring constantly.

Practical tips:
- Be careful not to burn the sugar; it quickly turns from delicious caramel to a bitter ingredient.
- Once the walnuts are caramelized, quickly pour them onto a piece of parchment paper to cool. After they have completely cooled, place them in a thick bag and gently crush them with a meat mallet to obtain smaller pieces.

Step 2: Preparing the base
In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form stiff peaks. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a dense and shiny meringue.

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, ground walnuts, and grated chocolate. Gently fold this mixture into the meringue using a spatula, mixing with light up-and-down motions to avoid losing air from the mixture.

Tip: This base will be wonderfully fluffy if the egg whites are beaten correctly. Make sure your bowl and utensils are completely dry; any trace of fat will prevent the egg whites from whipping well.

Pour the mixture into a large baking tray lined with parchment paper, and bake at medium heat for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. When ready, turn the base onto a cooling rack to cool completely, leaving the parchment paper on it.

Step 3: Preparing the cream
While the base is cooling, you can prepare the cream. In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until they become a light-colored cream. Add the cornstarch and mix well.

Gradually pour the cold milk into the mixture, constantly stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Place the pot over low heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens, similar to a pudding. It is important not to let it boil, otherwise the cream will curdle.

After the cream has thickened, remove the pot from the heat and add the butter. Stir until well combined and let it cool. Stir occasionally to prevent a crust from forming. Flavor with vanilla essence to taste.

Step 4: Assembling the cake
Once the base has cooled, carefully peel off the parchment paper and cut it into three equal strips. Divide the cream into three portions and, using a spatula, evenly spread each portion over the three strips of base.

After covering the cake with cream, add the caramelized walnuts on top. This crunchy and sweet touch will provide a wonderful contrast to the creamy texture of the cake.

Place the cake in the refrigerator for a few hours, or until the cream sets and the strips soften.

Serving
After the cake has cooled and set, cut it into desired portion sizes. You can serve it plain or with a side of warm chocolate sauce for an extra indulgence. Additionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream would be a perfect accompaniment!

Nutritional Information
This cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Walnuts are an excellent source of protein, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants. Additionally, dark chocolate has cardiovascular benefits, being rich in flavonoids. However, like any dessert, moderation is key.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of nuts?
Sure! Almonds or hazelnuts can also be delicious in this recipe.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the cream or opt for chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage.

3. Can the cream be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cream a day ahead and keep it in the refrigerator.

4. How can I improve the presentation of the cake?
Decorate with some fresh berries or a caramel sauce for an elegant look.

Possible Variations
If you want to add a personal touch, you can experiment with different flavors. Add a teaspoon of instant coffee to the egg yolk cream for a mocha flavor, or replace part of the ground walnuts with almonds. Each variation will bring a new level of flavor to your cake.

In conclusion, the caramelized walnut cake is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that blends tradition with innovation, bringing joy and flavor to every moment spent with loved ones. So, get ready to delight your taste buds and create sweet memories around this delicious cake!