Poppy seed and walnut cake

Poppy Seed and Walnut Cake: a dessert with personality

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 10

Here is a recipe for poppy seed and walnut cake that promises to delight the taste buds of everyone who tries it. This recipe is not only simple but also very versatile, easily adaptable to your preferences. The poppy seed and walnut cake is a wonderful choice for a snack, dessert, or even to impress guests at a party.

A bit of history

The cake has deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures, often associated with moments of conviviality, celebrations, and family gatherings. Each variation of cake has its own story, and the ingredients can vary from chocolate and fruits to nuts and seeds. In our case, the poppy seeds and walnuts provide a unique flavor and a crunchy texture, adding an extra touch of taste.

Necessary ingredients

- 100 grams of walnuts (preferably ground or coarsely chopped)
- 280 grams of flour
- 200 grams of sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder
- ½ teaspoon of baking soda
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of grated orange zest (from a medium orange)
- 60 grams of cold, unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1 large beaten egg
- 180 ml of freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Details about the ingredients

- Walnuts: the choice of walnuts can influence the flavor of the cake. You can use Romanian walnuts, pecans, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor.
- Poppy seeds: they add a crunchy note and a pleasant aesthetic appearance. Additionally, they are rich in nutrients.
- Orange juice: always use freshly squeezed juice for an intense and natural flavor. Avoid store-bought juices, which may contain additives and preservatives.

Preparation technique

1. Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This is an important step, as a well-heated oven will ensure even baking of the cake.

2. In a large bowl, combine the beaten egg with the vanilla and orange juice. Mix well to combine the ingredients. This mixture will add moisture and flavor to your cake.

3. In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt, and grated orange zest. These dry ingredients are essential for achieving a fluffy texture and balanced flavor.

4. Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to incorporate the butter into the flour until you achieve a texture similar to fine sand. This will help create a tender crust.

5. Add the wet mixture (egg, vanilla, and orange juice) over the dry ingredients. Gently mix with a spatula or wooden spoon, just until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing, as the cake will become dense.

6. Finally, fold in the walnuts and poppy seeds into the batter. Ensure they are evenly distributed so you can enjoy them in every bite.

7. Pour the batter into a loaf pan lined with parchment paper or greased with butter. Level the surface with a spatula for an even appearance.

8. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It is important not to open the oven door during the first 30 minutes, as this may lead to a drop in temperature and uneven baking.

9. Once the cake is baked, let it cool completely in the pan, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This step is essential to retain moisture and avoid crumbling.

Serving and variations

The poppy seed and walnut cake is delicious on its own, but for an extra flavor boost, you can serve it with warm chocolate sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also add a glaze made of powdered sugar and orange juice for a more festive appearance.

If you want to add a touch of originality, experiment with adding dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, or even chopped dark chocolate. These variations can completely transform the flavor profile of the cake, giving it a new dimension.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the final result may vary depending on the type of flour used.

2. How can I keep the cake longer?
I recommend storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can also be frozen to be enjoyed later.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe using a flax egg or another egg substitute, and the butter can be replaced with coconut oil or margarine.

Nutritional benefits

This cake is not only tasty but also nutritious. The walnuts provide healthy proteins, beneficial fats, and fiber, while the poppy seeds contribute essential minerals such as calcium and magnesium. The orange juice offers a dose of vitamin C, helping to strengthen the immune system.

Calories

Each serving of cake contains about 220 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used and the serving size. It is a dessert that can be integrated into the diet in moderation, offering sweet satisfaction without compromising health.

In conclusion, the poppy seed and walnut cake is a delicious choice for special occasions as well as for personal indulgence. With a bit of patience and attention to detail, you will create a dessert that will win the hearts of everyone who tastes it. So, get ready to enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience!