Chocolate walnut cake

Chocolate Walnut Cake: An Irresistible Delight

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of Servings: 12

Who can resist a soft, rich chocolate cake with crunchy walnut pieces? This chocolate walnut cake is not just a perfect choice for dessert but also a wonderful way to impress your friends and family. Plus, it's easy to make, and the final result is simply divine.

A bit of history: Chocolate cakes have been capturing the attention of sweet lovers for centuries. From simple chocolate cake recipes to the sophisticated ones we see today, chocolate has become a staple ingredient in desserts worldwide. Walnuts also add not only an interesting texture but also a beneficial nutritional profile, being rich in healthy fats, proteins, and antioxidants.

Here’s how you can prepare this delicious recipe step by step, ensuring you achieve a perfect result!

Ingredients

For the cake:
- 200 g unsalted butter
- 150 g dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ cup walnuts (chopped finely)

For the glaze:
- 250 ml heavy cream
- 100 g chocolate (choose between white, milk, or dark based on preference)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the oven and the pan
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This step is essential for ensuring even baking of the cake. Then, grease a rectangular baking pan with a little butter, making sure to cover all corners. Line the pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper to prevent the cake from sticking.

Step 2: Melt the chocolate
In a pot over very low heat, add the chopped dark chocolate and butter. Stir constantly until you achieve a smooth cream. It’s important not to let the chocolate boil, as this can affect the final texture. Once melted, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the batter
In a large bowl, lightly beat the eggs with the sugar until frothy. Gradually add the chocolate and butter mixture, mixing well to incorporate all the ingredients. Then, add the milk and all-purpose flour, stirring until you achieve a smooth batter. A useful tip is to sift the flour before adding it to prevent lumps.

Step 4: Add the walnuts
To prevent the walnuts from sinking to the bottom of the cake, mix them with a little flour before adding them to the batter. Once integrated, pour the batter into the prepared pan, leveling it evenly.

Step 5: Bake
Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 55 minutes. Check if it’s baked by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack.

Step 6: Prepare the glaze
To add an extra flavor boost, prepare the glaze. In a small pot, heat the heavy cream over low heat, being careful not to let it boil. Add the chopped chocolate and stir until completely melted. Let the glaze cool slightly before pouring it over the cooled cake.

Serving and variations
The chocolate walnut cake can be served plain or with glaze, and a sprinkle of chocolate sprinkles on top will add a playful touch, perfect for parties or special occasions. You can also experiment with different types of nuts: almonds, hazelnuts, or even pistachios, to give it a unique flavor.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but the cake will be sweeter. Adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences.

2. Can I replace the walnuts with another ingredient?
Of course! You can add raisins, coconut flakes, or even dried fruits to diversify the texture and flavor.

3. How can I keep the cake longer?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. You can freeze it for longer storage, but make sure it is well wrapped.

Nutritional benefits
This cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! Walnuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, proteins, and fiber, while dark chocolate provides antioxidants that can contribute to heart health. However, keep portion sizes in mind to maintain a balanced diet.

Conclusion
The chocolate walnut cake is a simple yet impressive recipe, perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it at a festive meal or as a treat during the week, it will surely be appreciated by everyone. Don’t forget to put your personal touch by experimenting with different ingredients and presentations. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and the flavors you will create!