Chocolate cake with nuts

Chocolate Walnut Cake: A Decadent and Flavorful Delight

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of Servings: 10

In a world full of desserts, the chocolate walnut cake always manages to shine! This recipe is not only simple but also extremely satisfying, based on accessible ingredients and an easy-to-follow technique. Whether you are celebrating a special event or simply want to indulge in something sweet, this cake will win anyone's heart.

The history of the chocolate walnut cake is fascinating, with deep roots in culinary traditions. Chocolate, once considered food for the gods, has been combined with walnuts to add a crunchy texture and deep flavor, transforming the dessert into a true masterpiece. Walnuts are not only delicious but also a rich source of protein and healthy fats, making this cake not just sweet but also nourishing.

Necessary Ingredients:
- 300 g walnuts
- 300 g dark chocolate
- 200 g sugar
- 100 g butter
- 5 eggs
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup brewed coffee (unsweetened)
- 1 packet baking powder
- 2 packets vanilla sugar

For the glaze:
- 125 g dark chocolate
- 100 ml cream

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by preparing all the ingredients. Melt the chocolate and butter together in a double boiler. Make sure the water in the pot does not touch the bottom of the bowl with the chocolate to prevent burning. This gentle method will ensure even melting and preserve the intense flavor of the chocolate.

2. Mixing the composition: In a large bowl, add the sugar and eggs. Beat them together until you have a smooth and fluffy mixture. This step is essential for achieving an airy cake. Once you have a frothy mixture, add the finely chopped walnuts and the brewed coffee.

3. Incorporating the chocolate: Once the chocolate and butter have completely melted, slowly pour them over the egg and walnut mixture, stirring constantly to avoid cooking the eggs. It is important not to add the hot chocolate directly to maintain the fine texture of the cake.

4. Adding the dry ingredients: Sift the baking powder and cornstarch over the mixture, along with the vanilla sugar. Gently fold using a spatula until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as the air in the mixture needs to remain intact for a fluffy texture.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a cake pan with butter and sprinkle a little flour or ground walnuts to prevent sticking. Pour the mixture into the pan and bake for about 50 minutes. You can check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is perfectly baked.

6. Preparing the glaze: While the cake is cooling, you can prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, heat the cream until boiling, then add the grated dark chocolate. Stir until completely melted. This glaze will add a layer of richness to your cake, giving it a final touch of elegance.

7. Finishing the cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, pour the chocolate glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides of the cake. You can decorate with whole walnuts or chocolate flakes for a more sophisticated look. Let the glaze set a little before cutting.

Serving Suggestions: Serve the chocolate walnut cake both warm and cold, alongside a serving of fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. This combination will add a pleasant contrast between warm and cold, making your dessert even more appealing.

Tips and Tricks:
- Use high-quality chocolate for an intense and satisfying flavor.
- You can experiment with different types of nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, to vary the flavor.
- If you want a less sweet cake, reduce the sugar by 50 g.
- The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, but it is best enjoyed fresh.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
A serving of chocolate walnut cake contains approximately 400-450 calories. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants, providing benefits for heart and brain health. Dark chocolate, besides its flavor, contains flavonoids that may support blood circulation.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can, but the taste and texture of the cake will be different. White chocolate brings a greater sweetness.
- How can I make the cake moister?
You can add a bit of olive oil to the mixture, or you can soak the cake with a sugar and coffee syrup after baking.

In conclusion, the chocolate walnut cake is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings together rich flavors and varied textures. Don't hesitate to try this simple yet impressive recipe and delight your family and friends with a treat that will remain in their memories. Enjoy!