Hungarian baigli dessert

Traditional Walnut Cake: a dessert that combines flavors and childhood memories

The walnut cake is undoubtedly one of the most beloved delicacies in traditional pastry. This wonderful dessert has been prepared with love and patience by generations, and its warm aroma and fluffy texture can transport us to festive times, where every dish has a story. From family gatherings to festive meals, the walnut cake becomes a symbol of unity and joy. Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a fantastic walnut cake that will surely be the star of your table.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 3 cakes

Ingredients for the dough:
- 500 g white wheat flour
- 250 g butter (or margarine, if you prefer)
- 3 tablespoons sour yogurt
- 100 g lard
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons sugar

Ingredients for the starter:
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 50 ml lukewarm milk

Ingredients for the filling:
- 700 g ground walnuts
- 300 g sugar
- 2 egg whites (for the filling)

For brushing:
- 1 egg yolk
- 3 tablespoons milk

Step 1: Preparing the starter

Start by preparing the starter, an essential step that will help the cake rise beautifully and become fluffy. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm milk (not hot, so as not to kill the yeast) and add the 2 tablespoons of sugar. Let the mixture sit in a warm place for 15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.

Step 2: Preparing the dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour with the diced butter (or margarine, if you opt for a lighter version). Add the solid lard, yogurt, egg yolks, salt, and finally, the starter you prepared earlier. Use a spatula or your hands to combine the ingredients, then start kneading. If you have a bread machine or a food processor, this process will be much easier. Knead the dough well for 15-20 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. Finally, let it rise in a warm place, covered with a clean towel, for about 1 hour or until it doubles in volume.

Step 3: Preparing the filling

Meanwhile, you can prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with the sugar until you obtain a firm foam. This will give the filling an airy texture. Add the ground walnuts and gently mix to obtain a homogeneous but not too wet composition. This mixture will add a delicious flavor to your cake.

Step 4: Shaping the cakes

After the dough has risen, divide it into 3 equal parts. Take each piece and roll it out with a rolling pin into a thin rectangular sheet. Be careful not to make it too thin, as it may crack during baking. Evenly distribute the walnut filling over the entire surface of the sheet, leaving a margin of about 1 cm to seal the roll. Now, roll the sheet tightly, forming a cylinder. Repeat this process for the other dough parts.

Step 5: Rising the cakes

Place the cakes in trays lined with baking paper and let them rise again for 15-20 minutes. This step is important to achieve that desired fluffy texture.

Step 6: Baking

Before putting them in the oven, mix the egg yolk with the 3 tablespoons of milk and carefully brush the cakes. This mixture will give a golden and delicious crust. Preheat the oven to 170 degrees Celsius and bake the cakes for 35-40 minutes. You will know they are ready when they turn golden and, if you tap the bottom lightly, they sound hollow.

Step 7: Cooling and serving

After the cakes are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool in the trays for a few minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack. Wait for them to cool completely before cutting. They can be served warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a cup of warm milk or a cup of fragrant tea.

Useful tips:
- If you want to experiment, you can replace the walnuts with poppy seeds or a combination of nuts and raisins.
- Make sure the ingredients are at room temperature before starting to prepare the dough; this will help activate the yeast.
- If you want to add a hint of flavor, you can include vanilla essence or lemon zest in the dough.

Nutritional benefits:
The walnut cake is rich in protein and healthy fats due to the walnuts, making it a good source of energy. Consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, but the texture of the cake will be different, denser. It is recommended to combine both types of flour for an optimal result.
- Can I store the cake for a longer time?
The cake keeps well at room temperature in an airtight container for a few days. It can also be frozen to be enjoyed later.

This walnut cake is truly special and will surely become a favorite recipe in your kitchen. Whether you prepare it for holidays or simply to treat your family, each bite will bring a smile to your face! Don't forget to experiment and add a personal touch to your recipe, so it becomes a symbol of love and tradition in your family. Enjoy!