Nut cake with vanilla cream and chocolate

Nut cake with vanilla cream and chocolate

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 12

If you are looking for a delicious dessert that impresses both in taste and appearance, then the nut cake with vanilla cream and chocolate is the perfect choice. This recipe combines a moist and rich cocoa and nut flavored base with a smooth vanilla cream and a decadent chocolate glaze. The flavors intertwine harmoniously, creating a true feast for the taste buds.

The history of this cake is lost in time, but it is clear that similar delights have been appreciated for centuries, often prepared for special occasions and holidays. Nuts, a staple ingredient, not only add texture but also a dose of valuable nutrients, making this cake a healthier choice.

Ingredients:

For the base:
- 5 fresh eggs
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 5 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of grated cocoa
- 2-3 tablespoons of roasted and chopped nuts
- A pinch of salt
- A packet of baking powder
- 4 tablespoons of water
- 3 tablespoons of oil
- A packet of vanilla sugar

For the cream:
- 5 egg yolks
- 4 heaping tablespoons of cornstarch
- 700 ml of milk
- 8-10 tablespoons of sugar (depending on your sweetness preference)
- A packet of vanilla sugar
- A few drops of vanilla essence
- 175 g of butter at room temperature

For the glaze:
- 2 bars of chocolate (choose a quality chocolate)
- A tablespoon of butter
- 2 teaspoons of water

Step by step:

1. Preparing the base:
- Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. It is essential that the bowl in which you beat the egg whites is clean and dry to achieve a perfect meringue.
- In a bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy. Add the sugar tablespoon by tablespoon, continuing to beat until you obtain a shiny, firm, and glossy meringue. This will give the base an airy texture.
- In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the water and oil. Once well combined, carefully add them over the egg whites, gently folding with a spatula or wooden spoon to avoid deflating the meringue.
- Incorporate the flour, cocoa, baking powder, and roasted nuts, mixing from bottom to top to maintain aeration.

2. Baking the base:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and pour in the base mixture. Ensure it is evenly distributed.
- Bake the base for 40 minutes or until it passes the toothpick test. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.

3. Preparing the vanilla cream:
- In a saucepan, mix the egg yolks with the sugar, cornstarch, salt, and vanilla sugar. Mix well, then gradually add the milk, stirring continuously.
- Place the mixture over low heat and stir constantly until it thickens. Then, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
- In another bowl, beat the butter until creamy, then incorporate it into the cooled vanilla cream, mixing until well combined.

4. Preparing the glaze:
- In a double boiler, melt the chocolate together with the butter and the two teaspoons of water. Stir until it becomes a smooth and shiny mixture.

5. Assembling the cake:
- Place the base on a wire rack or a tray. Spread the vanilla cream evenly, then pour the chocolate glaze on top.
- Let the cake chill in the refrigerator overnight to set and allow the flavors to meld.

6. Serving:
- Slice the cake with a sharp knife to obtain beautiful pieces. It is delicious served plain or accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Useful tips:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- You can add a little almond or rum essence to the cream for an extra flavor boost.
- Nuts can be replaced with hazelnuts or almonds, depending on preferences.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake offers a combination of carbohydrates from sugar and flour, proteins from eggs, and healthy fats from nuts and butter. Nuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, benefiting heart health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of milk instead of cow's milk?
Yes, you can use almond, soy, or coconut milk for a healthier or vegan option.

- What type of cocoa should I choose?
Choose high-quality cocoa, ideal for baking, that does not contain additives or added sugar.

- How do I keep the cake fresh?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for 3-4 days.

Conclusion:
The nut cake with vanilla cream and chocolate is a versatile dessert, perfect for being served on special occasions or simply to indulge after a long day. It not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also adds a touch of elegance to any meal. So, do not hesitate to try this delicious recipe and enjoy every slice!