Nougat cream cake

The walnut cream cake is a simple yet absolutely delicious dessert, perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to your days. This recipe will not only provide you with a flavorful cake but also a satisfying culinary experience. From preparing the walnut cream to assembling the cake, each step is an opportunity to enjoy cooking.

Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 0 minutes (but it needs to be pressed)
Servings: 10-12

Ingredients:

- 5 wafers
- 250 g margarine (or butter for a richer flavor)
- 3 eggs
- 2 cups of sugar (preferably granulated sugar, but brown sugar can be used for a caramelized note)
- 1 cup of walnuts (chopped or coarsely ground)
- 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder (for an intense flavor)
- Zest of 1 lemon or orange (for an extra flavor boost)

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by gathering all the ingredients, ensuring they are at room temperature. This will help the margarine blend better into the cream. If you choose to use walnuts, you might opt for Romanian walnuts, which add a special flavor.

Step 2: Making the cream

1. In a large bowl, add the softened margarine, eggs, cocoa powder, and lemon or orange zest. Using a mixer or spatula, mix well until you achieve a smooth, creamy, and slightly frothy mixture. The citrus aroma will add a fresh note to your cake, so don’t skip this step.

Step 3: Caramelizing the sugar

1. In a saucepan, add the two cups of sugar and place it over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar melts and turns into caramel. Be careful, as the caramel can burn quickly. Once it reaches a golden color, remove the saucepan from the heat.
2. Add a tablespoon of the margarine cream to the caramel, stirring quickly to combine the ingredients. Continue adding the cream until everything is incorporated. This is a crucial moment, as the combination of caramelized sugar and margarine cream will give your cake a unique taste.

Step 4: Assembling the cake

1. On a flat tray or platter, place the first wafer. Use a spatula to evenly spread a layer of walnut cream over the wafer. Continue alternating the wafers with the cream, ensuring each layer is well covered.
2. Finally, place the last wafer on top. Cover the cake with a book or a heavy object to press it down well. This step is essential to allow the layers to bond and become compact.

Step 5: Cooling and serving

Let the cake sit at room temperature for about an hour to cool and set. Then, you can place it in the refrigerator for an additional hour, but this is optional. When you’re ready to serve, cut the cake into equal portions and admire the delicious layers.

Helpful tips:

- Chocolate version: For a more decadent flavor, you can add 50 g of melted chocolate to the margarine cream.
- Various flavors: Instead of lemon or orange zest, you can use vanilla extract for a classic aroma.
- Different nuts: If you prefer, you can replace the walnuts with hazelnuts or almonds for a different texture.

Nutritional benefits:

This cake contains walnuts, which are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Additionally, the eggs provide a high amount of protein and vitamins. However, it’s important to consume this cake in moderation due to its sugar and fat content.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, butter will provide a richer flavor and creamier texture.

2. How long can the cake be stored?
It can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, covered with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

3. Can the cake be frozen?
Yes, the cake can be frozen in portions, but it’s recommended to let it sit at room temperature before consuming to restore its texture.

Ideal pairings:

This walnut cream cake pairs perfectly with a cup of hot coffee or a fragrant tea. Additionally, vanilla ice cream or chocolate sauce could complement this dessert beautifully!

When making the walnut cream cake, remember to enjoy every step of the process. It’s a simple recipe, yet full of flavor, that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Savor each portion with joy and love!