Hazelnut cake with semolina cream

The hazelnut and semolina cream cake is a refined delight, perfect for any occasion, combining the soft texture of the base with the rich flavor of hazelnuts and a fine cream. This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, making it ideal for impressing guests or as a weekend dessert with loved ones. The total preparation time is approximately 2 hours, including cooling time, and will yield 12 delicious servings. Let's get started! Ingredients For the base: - 4 eggs - 200 g sugar - 10 tablespoons of water - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 150 g flour - 100 g ground hazelnuts For the cream: - 500 ml milk - 5 tablespoons semolina - 200 g sugar - 2 packets vanilla sugar - 100 g ground hazelnuts For the glaze: - 50 g dark chocolate - 1 teaspoon butter - 2 tablespoons liquid cream Preparation of the cake Step 1: Preparing the base Start by boiling the milk in a saucepan. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom. When the milk starts to boil, add the semolina and sugar, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Leave the mixture on low heat, stirring, until it thickens. Then cover the saucepan with plastic wrap and let the cream cool slightly. Step 2: Preparing the bases Meanwhile, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites in a bowl, adding a tablespoon of water and the sugar gradually. Continue mixing until the foam becomes firm and shiny. Add the yolks, mixing until the mixture increases in volume and becomes homogeneous. In another bowl, combine the ground hazelnuts with the flour and baking powder. Add this mixture to the egg mixture and fold gently with a spatula, being careful not to deflate the egg whites. Pour the mixture into a baking tray lined with parchment paper (32/20 cm) and bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick test comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan, then cut it in half. Step 3: Preparing the cream When the semolina cream has cooled, add the ground hazelnuts, butter, and vanilla sugar. Mix gently to avoid cutting the cream, until the butter melts completely. Place the cream in the refrigerator for 30 minutes, then mix gently until creamy. Step 4: Assembling the cake Divide the cream into two parts. Spread one-third of the cream between the two bases, then use the remaining cream to cover the top of the cake. Step 5: Preparing the glaze For the glaze, melt the chocolate together with the butter and cream in a bowl over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until you achieve a smooth mixture. Drizzle the glaze over the cake and let it cool for at least 2-3 hours in the refrigerator. Serving and suggestions After the cake has cooled completely, cut it into squares and serve it with a cup of tea or coffee. It is also delicious alongside vanilla ice cream or a fresh fruit sauce, which will add a pleasant contrast to the rich texture of the cake. Practical tips - Hazelnuts: You can use roasted hazelnuts for a more intense flavor. If you want an allergen-free version, replace the hazelnuts with walnuts or almonds. - Semolina: Make sure to use quality semolina, as this will influence the texture of the cream. - Ingredient temperature: It is essential that the ingredients are at room temperature, especially the eggs, for better emulsification. - Variations: You can add a little rum or orange essence to the semolina cream for an extra flavor boost. Nutritional information One serving of cake contains approximately 250 calories, providing carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats from hazelnuts. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, being rich in vitamin E, which supports skin health and the immune system. Frequently asked questions 1. Can I use plant-based milk? Yes, you can replace the milk with almond or soy milk for a vegan version. 2. Can the cake be frozen? Yes, the cake can be frozen, but make sure it is well covered to avoid absorbing other flavors from the freezer. 3. What other ingredients can I add? You can experiment by adding raisins, chocolate chips, or even a layer of jam between the bases. The hazelnut and semolina cream cake is definitely a dessert that will bring smiles to the faces of those who enjoy it. I invite you to try it and share this recipe with your loved ones! Enjoy!