Nut and chocolate cake

Nut and Chocolate Cake – A Family Delight

If you're looking for a dessert that impresses both in appearance and taste, then this nut and chocolate cake is exactly what you desire! Although it is a syrup-free cake, its combination of ground nuts and melted chocolate will satisfy even the most discerning taste buds. The story of this cake began in our kitchen when we decided to treat the family to a decadent dessert, and their reactions were simply thrilling! So, let's get to work!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the base:
- 150 g dark chocolate
- 100 g butter
- 100 g sugar
- 5 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 100 g flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder

For decoration:
- 300 g dark or milk chocolate
- 100 g white chocolate
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder

Preparing the cake

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients for the base. Make sure the chocolate and butter are at room temperature, and the eggs are fresh. These details are essential for achieving a perfect and delicious cake.

2. Melting the chocolate: Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces, then melt it in a double boiler or microwave. If you choose the microwave method, set it to medium power and stir every 30 seconds to avoid burning the chocolate. About 2 minutes should be sufficient.

3. Mixing the composition: In a large bowl, combine the butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Use a mixer to beat the mixture until it becomes creamy and fluffy. It is important to incorporate the sugar well to achieve a fine texture for the cake.

4. Separating the eggs: In another bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites until they become frothy and the consistency is firm.

5. Adding the eggs: In the butter mixture, incorporate the yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step is essential for obtaining an airy base.

6. Combining the dry ingredients: In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and ground nuts. These dry ingredients are key to providing the cake with a firm structure and unmistakable flavor.

7. Combining the compositions: Add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter and egg mixture. Gently mix with a spatula to avoid losing air from the composition. Then, add the melted chocolate and mix again carefully.

8. Incorporating the egg whites: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the base mixture. This step is essential to ensure a fluffy texture for the cake.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 150°C. Pour the batter into a cake pan lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake rest for a few minutes in the pan before transferring it to a cooling rack.

10. Preparing the glaze: To achieve a delicious glaze, melt the dark (or milk) chocolate and evenly cover the cake, including the edges. Let the glaze set.

11. Finalizing the decoration: Grate the white chocolate into shavings or small pieces. Here you can involve your loved ones, just as I did with my daughter, Andrada. Add the white chocolate on top of the cake, and for an extra flavor, you can sprinkle a little cinnamon or cocoa over the entire surface.

Serving suggestions and variations

This nut and chocolate cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Another delicious variation is to serve it with caramel sauce or fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a perfect contrast between sweet and sour.

As for variations, you can experiment by replacing the nuts with almonds or hazelnuts, and the dark chocolate can be substituted with milk chocolate for a sweeter taste. Don't hesitate to add some flavors, such as vanilla or orange essence, for an interesting twist!

Nutritional benefits

This cake is rich in antioxidants due to the chocolate, which is also a good source of magnesium and iron. The nuts contribute protein and healthy fats, making this dessert more than just a simple treat. Of course, like any dessert, it should be consumed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Although white chocolate does not have the same cocoa content, you can use white chocolate for the glaze, but dark chocolate is recommended for the base.

2. How can I keep the cake fresh?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can also keep it in the refrigerator for a longer duration.

3. How can I avoid a cake that is too moist?
Make sure the ingredients are well incorporated and that the cake is baked sufficiently. Check with a toothpick to ensure it is cooked inside.

This nut and chocolate cake is more than just a simple dessert; it is an opportunity to create beautiful memories with loved ones. Whether you prepare it for a birthday, a family meal, or simply to indulge yourself, it is a delight that will bring smiles to everyone’s faces. So, put on your apron and let yourself be carried away by the magic of cooking!