Nut and chocolate cake

Walnut and Chocolate Cake

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Who doesn't love a fluffy cake with a rich flavor of nuts and chocolate? This walnut and chocolate cake is a true delight that combines the light texture of a loaf with the intense flavor of chocolate. Made with simple and readily available ingredients, this recipe will captivate your senses and bring joy in every bite. Moreover, it is perfect for special occasions or for those moments when you want to treat your family.

A bit of history

Walnut and chocolate cakes have a long history, being part of the culinary traditions of many cultures. Walnuts are a versatile ingredient, known for their crunchy texture and rich taste, while chocolate adds a touch of indulgence. The combination of these two ingredients makes this cake not only a delicious dessert but also a source of energy, thanks to the healthy fats in walnuts.

Necessary ingredients

- 5 eggs (at room temperature)
- 3 tablespoons of sour cream
- 10 tablespoons of sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons of ground walnuts
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 10-11 tablespoons of flour (the quantity may vary)
- Chocolate chips (about 100g)
- 1 tablespoon of butter (for greasing the pan)

Details about the ingredients

- Eggs: Choose fresh eggs at room temperature, as this will help create a fluffy texture.
- Walnuts: Use freshly ground walnuts for a more intense flavor. Pecan nuts or hazelnuts can also be an excellent choice for a flavor variation.
- Flour: The flour may vary depending on humidity and the type of flour used. Start with 10 tablespoons and add gradually if necessary.

Step by step: How to prepare the perfect cake

1. Preparing the ingredients: Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature, especially the eggs, to facilitate mixing. Prepare a bundt pan or a medium-sized baking pan, greased with butter.

2. Beat the yolks: In a large bowl, add the egg yolks and mix them with sugar and vanilla sugar. Beat well until the mixture becomes creamy and changes color, becoming lighter.

3. Add sour cream and walnuts: Incorporate the sour cream and ground walnuts into the yolk mixture. These ingredients will add moisture and flavor to the cake.

4. Beat the egg whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until you achieve a firm foam. It is important not to add sugar at this stage, as you want to obtain a foamy egg white that will help the cake be fluffy.

5. Combining the ingredients: Gradually add the beaten egg whites over the yolk mixture, gently folding from the bottom up to maintain the air in the egg whites. This is the key to a light cake.

6. Incorporate the flour: In a small bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. Add the flour to the egg mixture, continuing to mix gently from the bottom up. The batter should have a consistency similar to that of loaf batter.

7. Add the chocolate: Finally, fold in the chocolate chips into the mixture. They will partially melt during baking, giving the cake a delicious flavor.

8. Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and level the surface. Sprinkle a few chocolate chips on top for an attractive appearance. Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 180°C (medium heat) for 30-35 minutes. Test the cake with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

9. Cooling: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. This step is important to avoid moisture.

10. Serving: Cut the cake into slices and serve it plain or with a scoop of sour cream or ice cream. You can also add a chocolate sauce for an extra indulgence.

Practical tips

- Variations: You can also add other ingredients, such as raisins, candied cherries, or caramelized nuts to bring extra texture and flavor.
- Chocolate variations: Use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate, depending on your preferences.
- Storing the cake: The cake keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can freeze it to keep it longer.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use free-range eggs?
Yes, free-range eggs are excellent for this recipe and can add an extra flavor.

2. How can I make the cake gluten-free?
Replace regular flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

3. What drinks pair well with this cake?
An herbal tea, a flavored coffee, or even a sweet wine can perfectly accompany this cake.

Nutritional benefits

- Walnuts are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and fiber, having a positive impact on heart health.
- Chocolate contains antioxidants and can improve mood.
- This cake provides quick energy due to the natural sugars in the ingredients.

This walnut and chocolate cake is not just a dessert but a culinary experience. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, you will surely find joy in every slice. Enjoy!