Nut roll

Nut Roll - a traditional recipe full of nostalgia and flavor

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Number of servings: 10 servings
Calories per serving: approximately 280 kcal

The nut roll is a dessert that brings back many pleasant childhood memories. It is a symbol of holidays, family gatherings, and traditions passed down from generation to generation. Even if you haven't made many nut rolls in your life, this simple and detailed recipe will allow you to enjoy a delicious result, worthy of the most beautiful moments spent with loved ones.

Ingredients needed for a perfect nut roll:

For the dough:
- 600 g of good quality white flour (ideal for nut rolls)
- 3 egg yolks (for a soft and rich texture)
- 250 ml of lukewarm milk (not hot, to activate the yeast)
- 60 g of sugar (for the sweetness of the dough)
- 1 small cube of yeast (about 25 g, fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt (helps balance the taste)
- 2 tablespoons of butter (melted, for added flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of oil (to keep the dough soft)

For the filling:
- 200 g of ground walnuts (toasted walnuts can also be used for a stronger flavor)
- 3 egg whites (beaten until frothy, to aerate the filling)
- a pinch of salt (helps stabilize the egg whites)
- 100 g of sugar (for sweetness)

For decoration:
- 1 egg yolk (to give a golden color to the nut roll)
- 1 tablespoon of milk (to make a glazing mixture)

Step-by-step preparation technique:

1. Preparing the dough:
- Start by warming the milk until it becomes lukewarm. It is essential that it is not hot, as it will affect the yeast. Add the yeast cube directly into the lukewarm milk and let it activate for 5-10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the egg yolks with the sugar. Use a whisk or mixer to mix them well until they become a smooth, light-colored paste.
- Add the salt, melted butter, and oil to the egg yolk mixture, then pour in the milk with the activated yeast.

2. Kneading:
- Begin incorporating the flour gradually. It is important to use good quality flour, as this will influence the final texture of the nut roll. Mix until the dough becomes homogeneous.
- Transfer the dough to a clean surface and knead for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If you have a bread machine, you can use this function to knead the dough, which will make the work easier.

3. First rising:
- Form a ball from the dough and place it in a bowl greased with a little oil. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 40 minutes, or until it doubles in volume.

4. Preparing the filling:
- Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they become frothy. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until you obtain a firm meringue. Gently fold in the ground walnuts, being careful not to deflate the meringue.

5. Forming the nut roll:
- After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured work surface. Roll it out into a rectangle, being careful not to make it too thin.
- Evenly distribute the walnut filling over the dough, leaving a free edge on all sides. Roll the dough tightly, forming a log. Place it in a greased and floured baking pan.

6. Decorating and second rising:
- If there is leftover dough, you can create decorations for the nut roll. Use some of the dough to make a cross on top or to decorate the edges.
- Let the nut roll rise again in a warm place for 20-30 minutes.

7. Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 170 degrees Celsius. Before placing the nut roll in the oven, brush it with the egg yolk and milk mixture for a beautiful golden color.
- Bake the nut roll for 30 minutes, then cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, until well done.

8. Cooling:
- After the nut roll is baked, let it cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar to avoid condensation. This will help the nut roll stay fluffy and not collapse.

Serving suggestions and combinations:
The nut roll is delicious served plain, but it can also be accompanied by a cup of aromatic tea or coffee. It also pairs perfectly with a drizzle of jam or honey, adding an extra touch of sweetness. If you want to experiment, add some raisins or chocolate to the filling for a more decadent version.

Possible variations:
- You can replace the walnuts with almonds or hazelnuts, or mix different types of nuts for a diversified filling.
- Instead of walnut filling, you can try a poppy seed or cocoa filling, each variation having its own charm.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Why is it important not to overheat the milk?
Overheated milk can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising properly. Make sure it is lukewarm, not hot.

2. How can I tell if the dough is kneaded enough?
The dough is ready when it is elastic and smooth, does not stick to your hands, and retains its shape.

3. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, but whole wheat flour will make the nut roll denser. You can mix white flour with whole wheat flour for a more balanced result.

The nut roll is not just a dessert, but a true cooking experience that combines tradition with love for family. Try this recipe and bring a touch of joy into your home! Enjoy!