Nut and cocoa crown

Nut and Cocoa Crown - Delicious Dessert Recipe

Discover a delicious recipe with an unmistakable flavor, perfect for special moments or to add a touch of magic to every day. The nut and cocoa crown is not just a dessert, but a true culinary experience, full of flavor and tradition. This recipe, with deep roots in gastronomic culture, combines the fluffy texture of the dough with a rich filling of nuts and cocoa, creating a dessert that will impress everyone.

Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 30 minutes
- Rising Time: 2 hours
- Baking: 40-50 minutes
- Total: approximately 3 hours

Number of Servings: 10-12 servings

Ingredients

For the Dough:
- 700 g wheat flour
- 40 g fresh yeast
- 200 g sugar
- 300 ml milk (optional 2-3 extra tablespoons if the dough is too stiff)
- 150 ml oil or melted butter
- 2 whole eggs
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 orange
- Rum essence
- Vanilla
- A handful of raisins

For the Filling:
- 200 g ground nuts
- 1 tablespoon cocoa
- 200 g sugar
- 2 egg whites
- A handful of coconut
- 1 egg for brushing the crown

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Ingredients:
To achieve a perfect crown, it is essential that all ingredients, except for the milk and butter, are at room temperature. It is recommended to take them out of the fridge the night before. This step will help the dough rise evenly.

2. Sift the Flour:
Sift the flour twice to aerate it. This step will contribute to obtaining a fluffy dough.

3. Preparing the Yeast:
Gently heat the milk (without boiling it) and mix it with the sugar and vanilla. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in a tablespoon of flour and a few tablespoons of warm milk. Mix well and let the yeast rise covered, in a warm place, for 15 minutes.

4. Rubbing the Egg Yolks:
Sprinkle a little salt and sugar over the egg yolks and let them sit for a few minutes. Then, rub them with the grated lemon and orange zest. This combination will add a wonderful aroma to the dough.

5. Preparing the Dough:
In a large bowl, add the remaining flour. Make a well in the center and add the yeast, the rest of the warm milk (not hot), the rubbed egg yolks, the whole eggs, and the essences. Using your hands, start kneading the dough, gradually incorporating the flour from the edges.

6. Adding the Butter:
As the dough begins to come together, gradually add the melted butter, mixing continuously. Continue kneading the dough for about 60 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. It is essential to adhere to this step to achieve a perfect texture.

7. Rising the Dough:
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for an hour and a half, until it doubles in volume.

8. Preparing the Filling:
In a bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy. Add the roasted and ground nuts, sugar, cocoa, and coconut. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

9. Shaping the Dough:
After the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangular sheet. Evenly distribute the filling over the entire surface. Carefully roll the dough to form a log and join the two ends to form a crown.

10. Second Rising:
Place the crown in a bundt pan and let it rise for another 30 minutes. This step is crucial to achieving a fluffy crown.

11. Baking:
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 180°C. Brush the crown with the beaten egg to give it a golden and appetizing crust. Bake the crown for 40-50 minutes, until it is golden and baked inside. Check with a toothpick - if it comes out clean, the crown is ready.

12. Serving:
After it has cooled, remove the crown from the pan and sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant look. You can serve this delicacy alongside a cup of tea or coffee, but also with a glass of warm milk for an unforgettable feast.

Practical Tips:
- Variations: You can experiment with fillings by adding chocolate, raisins, or even dried fruits.
- Storage: The crown can be stored in an airtight container to maintain its freshness for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to appreciate its texture and flavor.
- Nutritional Benefits: Nuts are an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins. Additionally, cocoa has antioxidant properties, making it a beneficial ingredient for the body.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use dry yeast? Yes, you can replace fresh yeast with approximately 14 g of dry yeast.
- How can I make the crown less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or in the dough, depending on your preferences.
- What can I do with leftover dough? You can make small rolls or pretzels for a quick snack.

Ideal Combinations:
The nut and cocoa crown pairs perfectly with a cup of aromatic black tea or freshly brewed coffee. You can also try serving it with vanilla ice cream or warm chocolate sauce for a more decadent dessert.

In conclusion, the nut and cocoa crown is more than just a simple recipe; it is an opportunity to create delicious memories with loved ones. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or just to indulge yourself, this dessert will surely bring smiles to everyone's faces. Enjoy!