Crunchy walnut cake

Crispy Walnut Cake with Mascarpone Cream

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Embark on a culinary adventure with a recipe that combines the sweetness of chocolate with the crunchy texture of caramelized walnuts and the richness of mascarpone cream. This cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience that will delight all your senses. Let’s discover the steps to create this treat together!

The history of the crispy walnut cake is fascinating. It is said that walnut cake recipes have been passed down through generations, becoming a symbol of hospitality and joy in every household. Whether for a special celebration or a family gathering, this dessert brings a touch of magic to the table.

Ingredients:

For the base:
- 100 g dark chocolate
- 100 g butter
- 100 g sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 5 eggs
- 150 g flour
- 120 g ground walnuts
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon rum extract

For the cream:
- 250 g mascarpone
- 3 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- 50 ml heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar
- 2 packets whipped cream stabilizer

For the crunch:
- 100 g sugar
- 100 g walnut halves

Step by step:

Preparing the base:
1. Start by melting the dark chocolate and butter. You can do this either over low heat in a saucepan or in the microwave. If using the microwave, make sure to do it in 15-20 second intervals to prevent burning.
2. Once the chocolate has melted, add the sugar and rum extract, mixing well until the mixture cools down.
3. Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth texture.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, ground walnuts, and baking powder. Add this mixture to the chocolate mixture, stirring until everything is well combined.
5. Whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form with a pinch of salt. Gently fold them into the chocolate mixture in two or three batches, being careful not to deflate the foam.
6. Pour the mixture into a 24 cm round cake pan lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (medium heat) for 30-40 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick – if it comes out clean, the base is ready!
7. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.

Preparing the cream:
8. In a bowl, mix the mascarpone with the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla sugar, and heavy cream. Add the whipped cream stabilizer and continue mixing until the cream becomes firm. This cream will add a touch of luxury and finesse to your cake.

Preparing the crunch:
9. In a skillet, caramelize the sugar until it becomes liquid and amber in color. Be careful not to burn it!
10. Add the walnut halves and stir well to coat them in caramel. Immediately pour the mixture onto a piece of parchment paper and let it cool.
11. Once cooled and hardened, place it in a thick bag and crush it with a meat mallet to obtain crunchy pieces.

Assembling the cake:
12. Once the base has completely cooled, spread the cream over it and smooth it out with a spatula.
13. Sprinkle the caramelized walnuts on top for a crunchy and delicious finish.
14. Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour to chill and set the cream.

Serving:
15. Cut the cake into portions as desired. You can serve it plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside. This combination will add a refreshing touch and turn the dessert into a true delight.

Practical tips:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to achieve a uniform texture.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the cream.
- You can substitute walnuts with almonds or hazelnuts for an original twist on your cake.
- This cake pairs wonderfully with fruit tea or a strong espresso.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can the cake be frozen? Yes, it is recommended to portion it before freezing for easier enjoyment later.
- Can I use another type of cheese instead of mascarpone? Although mascarpone provides a creamy texture, you can try well-drained cottage cheese.
- How long can the cake be stored in the fridge? It can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days, but it is best enjoyed within the first 24 hours.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake offers a combination of protein from the eggs and mascarpone, healthy fats from the walnuts, and antioxidants from the dark chocolate. Even though it's a dessert, moderate consumption can be part of a balanced diet.

In conclusion, this crispy walnut cake with mascarpone cream recipe is perfect for any occasion, bringing a touch of elegance and refinement to every slice. Whether you enjoy it with family or gift it to friends, it is sure to be a hit. Happy baking!