Nut cake with coconut cream

Walnut Cake with Coconut Cream – A Delicacy That Will Delight Your Senses

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Walnut cake with coconut cream is a delicious combination, perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to gatherings with friends. This recipe blends the crunchy textures of walnuts with the inviting creaminess of coconut cream, offering a unique tasting experience. Let’s discover together how to prepare this refined dessert!

Recipe History

Desserts with nuts and coconut creams have a long-standing tradition, being appreciated in various cultures for their richness of flavors and textures. Combining nuts with different types of creams has been an ingenious way to create rich and satisfying sweets. This recipe, which we will explore, has deep roots in culinary traditions but has been adapted to add a modern and personal touch.

Ingredients

For the base:

- 5 eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 5 tablespoons ground walnuts
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the syrup:

- 200 ml water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Rum essence

For the cream:

- 400 ml milk
- 4 tablespoons semolina
- 200 ml whipped cream
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- Vanilla essence
- 4 tablespoons colored coconut

For decoration:

- Ground walnuts
- Colored coconut

Step by Step – Preparing the Cake

1. Preparing the base – The Prologue of Delight

Start by preparing the oven. Preheat it to 180 degrees Celsius (medium heat). Choose a 20x30 cm baking tray and line it with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

In a large bowl, add the egg whites along with the two tablespoons of water and a pinch of salt. Use a mixer to beat the egg whites until they form a foam. When the foam starts to form, gradually add the sugar and continue to mix until the mixture becomes shiny and firm.

In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the oil until they become a smooth paste. Add the yolk mixture over the egg whites, folding gently with a spatula to keep the air in the mixture. Incorporate the ground walnuts, then the flour mixed with the baking powder. Mix gently until all ingredients are well combined.

Pour the mixture into the prepared tray and level the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the base from the oven and let it cool on a rack.

2. Making the syrup – A Touch of Sweetness

While the base cools, you can prepare the syrup. In a small saucepan, combine 200 ml of water with the two tablespoons of sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar completely dissolves. Once the syrup starts to boil, add the rum essence and let it cool.

3. Preparing the cream – The Final Indulgence

For the cream, in a medium saucepan, combine the milk, semolina, and sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture starts to thicken. It’s important to keep stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Once the cream has thickened, add the whipped cream and vanilla essence, mixing well. Add the colored coconut and let it cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Assembling the Cake – The Moment of Truth

The cooled base is cut in half horizontally. Use a brush to soak each layer with the rum syrup. Place the first half of the base on a serving platter, followed by half of the prepared cream. Add the second half of the base and cover with the remaining cream.

For a more attractive appearance, decorate with ground walnuts and colored coconut. This detail will not only enhance the dessert's appearance but will also add extra flavor.

Practical Tips for a Perfect Result

- Choose quality ingredients: Use fresh nuts and whole milk for a richer taste.
- Care for the bases: Ensure that the base is completely cooled before cutting to avoid crumbling.
- Variations: Replace the walnuts in the base with poppy seeds for a different texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different essence flavors, such as almonds or oranges, for a personalized touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of nuts?
Yes, you can experiment with hazelnuts, pistachios, or even pecans for varied flavors.

2. How can I make the cream healthier?
You can replace the whipped cream with a plant-based alternative or reduce the amount of added sugar.

3. Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour instead of wheat flour.

Serving and Pairings

This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of aromatic coffee or a fruit tea, which will complement the sweet and creamy dessert. It can also be served with vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast between warm and cold.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake offers a combination of protein from the eggs, healthy fats from the nuts, and fiber from the semolina, making it a good choice for an occasional treat. When consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

In conclusion, walnut cake with coconut cream is not just a dessert but a culinary experience that brings joy and nostalgia in every bite. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. Don’t forget to enjoy every step of the preparation!