Nut cake

Nut Cake - A classic delicacy that combines the rich flavor of nuts with a fluffy and moist texture, perfect for any occasion. In this step-by-step guide, I will share with you the secret to a perfect nut cake, as well as some tips and variations that will add a touch of creativity to your recipe.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:
- 10 fresh eggs
- 2 cups of sugar
- 2 cups of flour
- 1 small cup of oil (about 150 ml)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Juice of one lemon
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 tablespoon of rum essence (optional)
- 3-4 tablespoons of cocoa
- 1 cup of whole walnut kernels
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Recipe history:
The nut cake is a beloved traditional dessert, appreciated in various cultures over time. This recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family having its unique version. The nut cake is undoubtedly a popular choice due to its rich flavor and slightly moist texture. It is the ideal dessert to be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, bringing a smile to the faces of loved ones.

Step by step:

1. Separating the eggs: Start by carefully separating the egg whites from the yolks. Use separate bowls for each. This is an essential step, as the egg whites will be beaten into foam, and the yolks will be mixed with the other wet ingredients.

2. Preparing the yolk mixture: In a medium bowl, add the yolks and oil. Mix well with a whisk or mixer until the mixture is smooth. Squeeze the lemon juice and dissolve the baking powder in it. Add the lemon and baking powder mixture to the yolks, mixing again.

3. Beating the egg whites: In another bowl, add a pinch of salt to the egg whites and start beating them with a mixer on medium speed. After a few minutes, when the egg whites become frothy, gradually add the sugar, sprinkling it in. Continue beating until you obtain a white and firm foam.

4. Combining the ingredients: Start adding the yolk mixture to the egg whites, a little at a time, gently folding with a spatula or wooden spoon. It is important not to mix too vigorously, so as not to lose the air from the egg whites.

5. Including the flour: Sift the flour over the mixture, adding it gradually while continuing to mix from the bottom up. The final consistency should be slightly softer than a sponge cake mixture, but not too liquid.

6. Preparing the pans: Grease two loaf pans with oil or line them with parchment paper. Divide the mixture evenly between the two pans, leaving 3-4 tablespoons of batter in the bowl.

7. Adding cocoa: Mix the 3-4 tablespoons of batter left in the bowl with cocoa, forming a darker mixture. Pour this batter in the center of each pan, so that it creates a beautiful pattern when baked.

8. The walnut kernels: Sprinkle the walnut kernels on top of the mixture in each pan, giving it both a pleasing appearance and a delicious taste.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Once hot, place the pans in the oven. The cakes will bake for about 45-50 minutes. Towards the end, you can increase the oven temperature to achieve a slightly golden crust. The toothpick test is essential; if it comes out clean, the cakes are ready.

10. Cooling and serving: After baking, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes, then remove them to a rack to cool completely. When completely cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant appearance.

Serving suggestions:
The nut cake is delicious served plain, but you can also add a spoonful of fruit jam or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more sophisticated dessert. Additionally, a cup of aromatic coffee or herbal tea will perfectly complement this dessert.

Cocoa variant: You can add more cocoa to the batter to achieve a cake with an intense chocolate flavor. You can also replace the walnut kernels with almonds or hazelnuts, depending on your preferences.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use quail eggs? Yes, you can adapt the recipe, considering that 10 quail eggs are equivalent to about 5 chicken eggs.
2. What do I do if I don't have walnut kernels? You can use other types of nuts or seeds, such as almonds or sunflower seeds, for a similar texture.
3. How can I store the cake? It stores well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Nutritional benefits:
The nut cake is rich in protein and healthy fats due to the nuts, providing a good source of energy. The flour adds carbohydrates, while the eggs are an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that remains is to get cooking! With a little patience and love, this nut cake will surely become a favorite among your family and friends. Enjoy!