Nut and cocoa bread

Nut Roll with Walnut and Cocoa - An Easter Delight

The walnut and cocoa nut roll is a symbol of the Easter holidays, bringing the aromas and traditions passed down from generation to generation to the festive table. This recipe will not only bring a smile to your face but will also fill the house with the enticing scent of freshly baked dough, evoking pleasant memories alongside loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour (plus 10-15 minutes)
Baking time: 1 hour
Total: approximately 2 hours
Number of servings: 4 nut rolls

Ingredients for the dough:
- 1 kg wheat flour
- 50 g fresh yeast
- 500 ml milk
- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- 250 g sugar
- 5 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon and 1 orange
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar

Ingredients for the filling:
- 250 g ground walnuts
- 5 egg whites
- 100 g sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- A pinch of salt
- Rum essence (to taste)

Ingredient for brushing:
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon sugar

Preparation:

1. Preparing the flavored milk: In a pot, heat the milk over low heat. Add the lemon and orange zest along with the two packets of vanilla sugar. Mix well and let it cool slightly. This step adds a subtle and fresh flavor to the dough, turning it into a delight.

2. Making the starter: In a small bowl, mix the yeast with a teaspoon of sugar until it becomes liquid. Add 3 tablespoons of warm milk and a tablespoon of flour, mixing gently until smooth. Let the starter rise for 10-15 minutes in a warm place until bubbles form.

3. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, put the flour and make a well in the center. Add the risen starter, a pinch of salt, the flavored milk, and the egg yolks mixed with sugar. Knead the dough for about 30 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If you grease your hands with butter, the dough will be easier to handle and incorporate better.

4. Let the dough rise: Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for one hour or until it doubles in size.

5. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form a foam. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until you get a firm meringue. In another bowl, mix the ground walnuts with cocoa and rum essence. Gently fold the meringue into the walnut mixture, being careful not to lose the air in the composition.

6. Forming the nut rolls: After the dough has risen, divide it into 4 equal portions. On a floured surface, roll each portion into a round sheet the size of the nut roll pan. Evenly spread the filling over each sheet, then carefully roll them up. Braid two rolls and place them in the nut roll pans lined with greased parchment paper.

7. Second rising: Let the nut rolls rise again, covered, for 30-40 minutes until they double in size.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Beat the egg with a teaspoon of sugar and brush the nut rolls. Bake for about an hour, avoiding opening the oven in the first 20 minutes. Check if they are baked using a skewer; if it comes out clean, the nut rolls are ready.

9. Cooling: After the nut rolls are done, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with a little water to prevent the crust from drying out. Let them cool completely before slicing.

Serving suggestions: The walnut and cocoa nut roll is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it plain, alongside a fragrant tea or freshly brewed coffee. Additionally, a dollop of sour cream or a chocolate sauce can add a touch of refinement.

Possible variations: You can replace walnuts with almonds or hazelnuts, and cocoa with ground chocolate, to achieve a different flavor. You can also add raisins or candied fruits to the filling for extra flavor.

Nutritional benefits: The nut roll is a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. Walnuts are rich in healthy fats, proteins, and antioxidants, contributing to heart and brain health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but the amount will be different (approximately 15 g of dry yeast for this recipe).

2. How can I keep the nut roll fresh longer?
You can store it in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze it for later consumption.

3. What can I do if the dough doesn't rise?
Make sure the yeast is fresh and that you let the dough rise in a warm place.

This walnut and cocoa nut roll is more than just a simple recipe; it is a journey into the world of traditions, a way to gather the family around the table and create unforgettable memories. So let’s bring this recipe to life, enjoy every step, and most importantly, every slice!