Nut and coffee cake

Walnut and NES Cake - An Unforgettable Delight

When it comes to desserts, walnut and NES cake is undoubtedly one of those treats that captures your heart from the first bite. A perfect combination of textures and flavors, this dessert is ideal for any occasion, whether you're celebrating a special moment or simply want to indulge in something sweet. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the base:
- 5 large eggs
- 125 g powdered sugar
- 125 g ground walnuts
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 packet baking powder
- A pinch of salt

For the cream:
- 200 g unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 150 g powdered sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons NES (or instant coffee)

For the glaze:
- 150 g powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon cappuccino (optional, for an intense flavor)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 3 tablespoons hot water

For decoration:
- 70 g white chocolate

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the base
Start by preheating the oven to 175 degrees Celsius. In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Add a pinch of salt to the egg whites and beat them with an electric mixer until foamy. It's important to be patient at this stage; well-beaten egg whites will make the base light and fluffy.

Once you have a consistent foam, gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to mix. You'll notice the egg whites becoming glossy and firm. This is the secret to a perfect base.

In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the baking powder, then pour them over the beaten egg whites. Use a spatula to gently fold them in, being careful not to deflate the egg whites. Then, add the flour and ground walnuts, mixing again with gentle movements.

Pour the mixture into a baking tray lined with parchment paper and level the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the base turns golden and passes the toothpick test. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 2: Preparing the cream
While the base cools, it's time to prepare the cream. In a bowl, beat the soft butter together with the powdered sugar. Add the NES and continue mixing until everything is well incorporated. It's essential to achieve a smooth and homogeneous cream.

Add the two egg yolks, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The cream should be creamy and delicious, with an inviting coffee aroma. Once the base has cooled, spread the cream evenly over it and smooth it out with a wide-bladed knife. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to set the cream for at least 1 hour.

Step 3: Preparing the glaze
While waiting for the cream to set, prepare the glaze. In a bowl, combine the powdered sugar with the cocoa and cappuccino. Gradually add the oil and hot water, stirring continuously with a spoon until the sugar is completely dissolved. The glaze should be smooth and glossy.

Once the cream has set, pour the glaze over the cake and level it with a spatula. For an elegant touch, grate white chocolate on top. Leave the cake in the refrigerator to set the glaze for about 30 minutes.

Step 4: Serving
The walnut and NES cake is ready to be enjoyed! Cut it with a knife dipped in warm water to get perfect slices. This cake is delicious alongside a cup of coffee or tea, but it can also be served with vanilla ice cream for a delightful temperature contrast.

Helpful Tips:
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature before using it for a smoother cream.
- If you want to experiment, you can add a bit of vanilla extract to the cream for extra flavor.
- This cake keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days, but it will disappear quickly due to its delicious taste!

Nutritional Benefits:
This cake is not just a treat, but it also offers some benefits. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for heart health. Additionally, coffee contains antioxidants and can enhance mental performance.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other types of nuts?
Yes, you can use pecans or almonds, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
Reducing the amount of sugar in the cream is an option, but make sure the taste remains balanced.

3. Can I add fruits to the cream?
Yes, you can add some berries for a fresh taste and interesting texture.

4. How can I improve the cake's appearance?
Decorating with fresh fruits or a caramel sauce can make the cake look spectacular.

This walnut and NES cake is definitely a dessert that will impress everyone. Each bite is an explosion of flavors, and the combination of walnut, coffee, and white chocolate makes every slice a moment of indulgence. So, don’t wait any longer! Put on your apron and prepare this delight at home. Enjoy!