Nut cake with butter cream

Walnut Layer Cake with Buttercream – a dessert that brings back childhood memories, a delicacy that combines the crunchy texture of the layers with the creaminess of a rich frosting, all enhanced by the unmistakable aroma of walnuts. This homemade cake recipe is not only simple but also full of nostalgia, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. Let’s embark together on the journey of making this treat, step by step.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 36 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 6 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the layers (6 layers):
- 3 whole eggs
- 3 tablespoons of honey
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- 200 g ground walnuts (about a deep plate)
- 1 packet of ammonium mixed with the juice of 1 lemon
- Flour as needed (approximately 400-500 g, depending on the dough consistency)

For the buttercream:
- 500 g butter (it's important to choose a high-quality butter for a smooth texture)
- 3 eggs
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 400 g vanilla pudding (or a preferred flavor)
- Apricot jam (for a sweet and tangy taste)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the layers
1. In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with the honey and sugar until the mixture becomes smooth and frothy. This step is essential to incorporate air, which will make the layers lighter.
2. Add the ground walnuts and the ammonium mixed with lemon juice. Mix well.
3. Start adding flour gradually until you achieve a soft and elastic dough. It’s important not to add all the flour at once; start with 300 g and adjust according to the desired consistency. The dough should be easy to roll out but not stick to your hands.
4. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll out each portion into a thin layer, about 2-3 mm thick. Use a little flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Baking the layers
5. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the layers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake each layer for about 6 minutes, until they turn lightly golden. It’s important to keep an eye on them, as they bake quickly.
6. After baking, let the layers cool on a wire rack. This step helps maintain the crispy crust.

Step 3: Preparing the buttercream
7. In a double boiler, mix the eggs with the sugar, whisking constantly until the mixture begins to thicken. This will create a smooth and rich base for the frosting. Let it cool.
8. In another bowl, whip the butter at room temperature until it becomes creamy and airy. This is key for a light and fluffy buttercream.
9. Add the vanilla pudding to the whipped butter, mixing well. Make sure the pudding is at room temperature to avoid lumps.

Step 4: Assembling the cake
10. Take the first baked layer and spread a generous layer of apricot jam on it, then add a layer of buttercream. Repeat the process with all the layers, alternating between jam and cream, with the final layer being buttercream.
11. Let the cake sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set and allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Serving
12. After chilling, cut the cake into generous slices. Serve it plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Helpful tips
- Layering: Using apricot jam between the layers not only adds a wonderful flavor but also helps retain moisture. You can experiment with different fruit jams, such as peach or cranberry, to add a personal touch.
- Storing the cake: This cake keeps well in the refrigerator and can be enjoyed for several days, with the flavor getting even better as the tastes meld.
- Variations: You can replace the walnuts with hazelnuts or pistachios for a different texture. Additionally, you can add a few drops of rum essence to the buttercream for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional information
Each serving of walnut layer cake with buttercream contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the serving size and ingredients used. This cake is rich in healthy fats from the walnuts, and the butter provides a source of vitamins and minerals. When consumed in moderation, this delicacy can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of nuts? Yes, you can use hazelnuts, pistachios, or even almonds, depending on your preferences.
2. How can I make the cake less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar in the frosting and use less sweet jams.
3. Can the cake be frozen? Yes, the cake can be frozen. Cut it into slices and wrap each slice in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you are ready to prepare this wonderful walnut layer cake with buttercream. Share it with your loved ones and let the memories of childhood carry you away in every delicious slice!