Nut roll

Walnut Roll - A Homemade Delight

If you are looking for a quick and delicious dessert recipe that will impress both family and friends, you have come to the right place. The walnut roll is a perfect choice: flavorful, fluffy, and easy to prepare. This recipe has passed through generations, becoming a favorite in many households. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this roll will bring joy and a touch of nostalgia every time you savor it.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 600 g of white flour
- 200 g of butter (at room temperature)
- 2 eggs
- Zest of one lemon
- Juice of one lemon
- 1 tablespoon of rum essence
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (25 g)
- 150 ml of warm milk
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 250 g of walnut (kernels)
- 4-5 tablespoons of sugar (to taste)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the dough

Start by preparing the dough. In a large bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well with a whisk or spatula until you obtain a smooth and creamy mixture.

Step 2: Activating the yeast

In a separate bowl, pour the warm milk and add the yeast cube along with a little sugar and a pinch of salt. Let the yeast activate for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy dough.

Step 3: Mixing the ingredients

Add the milk and yeast mixture to the bowl with the wet ingredients. Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing constantly. You will obtain an elastic dough, but not too stiff; be careful not to add too much flour, as the dough may become dry. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Resting the dough

After kneading the dough, cover it with a clean towel and let it rest for 20-30 minutes at room temperature. This step will allow the yeast to act, and the dough will rise, becoming fluffier.

Step 5: Preparing the walnut filling

Meanwhile, clean the walnut kernels and crush them with a rolling pin. Add sugar to the crushed walnuts, adjusting the amount to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can add more sugar. This walnut mixture will give the roll a delicious taste and a crunchy texture.

Step 6: Forming the roll

Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Roll out each part on a floured surface, forming two thin sheets of dough. On the first sheet, sprinkle half of the walnut mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Carefully roll the dough to form a tight roll.

Step 7: Baking

Place the first roll in a baking tray lined with parchment paper and repeat the process for the second roll. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Initially, bake the rolls for 30 minutes at a low temperature, then increase the heat and bake for another 15 minutes until they are golden and well browned. It is important not to open the oven in the first 20 minutes to prevent steam from escaping.

Step 8: Cooling

After the rolls are baked, let them cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent cracking. This trick will help maintain the fluffy texture.

Serving

The walnut rolls can be served warm or cold. A serving suggestion is to accompany them with a glass of fresh orange juice or a fragrant tea. The tart taste of lemon in the dough will perfectly combine with the sweetness of the walnut filling.

Nutritional benefits

The walnut roll is not only a delicious dessert but also offers nutritional benefits due to its ingredients. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, contributing to heart health and improving cognitive function. Additionally, eggs and butter provide essential proteins and vitamins.

Possible variations

If you want to add a touch of creativity, you can experiment with different fillings. You can add chopped dark chocolate, raisins, or even candied fruits for a unique flavor. You can also replace walnuts with hazelnuts or almonds for a different texture.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. In this case, use about 7 g of dry yeast and follow the same activation steps.

2. How can I keep the roll fresh longer?
The roll can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.

3. Can I add vanilla flavor instead of rum essence?
Of course! The vanilla flavor will blend perfectly with the other ingredients, providing a distinct note.

In conclusion, the walnut roll is a simple and delicious dessert recipe, ideal for any occasion. With just a few basic ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Don't forget to enjoy every step of the cooking process and share this delicacy with all your dear ones. Enjoy your meal!