Simi dessert cake

Today I present you a delicious cake recipe, perfect for a double celebration! Today we are not only celebrating one year since my first post on Bucătăraș, but also reaching the milestone of recipe number 300! To celebrate properly, each of you will receive two servings of cake. Let's get to work and create a quick and spectacular dessert together!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the base:
- 200 g butter (softened at room temperature)
- 200 g sugar
- 6 egg whites
- 150 g flour
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- 200 g ground walnuts
- Juice and zest of one lemon

For the glaze:
- 6 egg yolks
- 200 g powdered sugar

For the cream:
- 100 g butter (softened at room temperature)
- 100 g sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- 100 g ground walnuts
- 1-2 drops of rum essence

For decoration:
- 50 g ground walnuts

Preparation

Step 1: The base
We start by preparing the base. In a large bowl, we mix the softened butter with the sugar until we obtain a fluffy and homogeneous mixture, similar to a foam. It is essential that the butter is well softened, so it integrates perfectly into the mixture.

In another bowl, we beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Here, it is important to ensure that the bowl is completely clean, free of any grease, so that the egg whites can whip properly.

Then, with gentle bottom-to-top movements, we fold the egg whites into the butter mixture. We add the flour mixed with the baking powder, sifted over the mixture. We continue to mix carefully, so as to maintain the aeration of the egg whites.

Finally, we add the ground walnuts, lemon juice, and zest, mixing gently. The fresh lemon aroma will add a note of freshness to the cake.

We pour the batter into a 25x35 cm baking pan lined with parchment paper and bake in a medium oven (about 180°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the top turns golden and passes the toothpick test (inserted in the center, the toothpick should come out clean).

Step 2: The glaze
After the base has cooled slightly, we prepare the glaze. We mix the egg yolks with the powdered sugar until we obtain a creamy and homogeneous mixture. We spread the glaze evenly over the warm base, leaving it in the oven (with the heat off) for about 10 minutes, to dry slightly.

Step 3: The cream
Next, we move on to the delicious cream. We mix the butter with the sugar until the crystals are completely melted. We add cocoa and ground walnuts, mixing well to homogenize everything. Finally, don't forget to add the rum essence, which will give a subtle and refined taste to the cream.

We spread the cream over the cooled cake and level it with a spatula. We sprinkle 50 g of ground walnuts on top for added texture.

Step 4: Portioning
We let the cake cool completely, then cut it into squares or triangles. It is perfect to be served alongside a cup of coffee or a flavored tea, being an ideal dessert for a gathering with friends or a family celebration.

Serving suggestions and variations

This cake pairs wonderfully with warm chocolate sauce or vanilla ice cream, creating a pleasant temperature contrast. Additionally, if you want to add a touch of originality, you can replace the walnuts with ground almonds or pistachios to create a different version.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This cake is a good source of energy due to its walnut and butter content. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and antioxidants, benefiting heart and brain health. However, given the ingredients used, it is wise to be mindful of portions, as it is a caloric dessert.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, but make sure to reduce the amount of salt added to the egg whites.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the glaze or cream, depending on personal preferences.

3. Can the cake be frozen?
Yes, the cake can be frozen, but it is recommended to portion it beforehand. Make sure to wrap it well in aluminum foil or in freezer bags.

4. What other desserts can I prepare with walnuts?
If you like the taste of walnuts, you can also try recipes for coconut walnut cakes, walnut tortes, or walnut cookies.

I hope this cake recipe brings joy to your home, just as it has for me! Preparing this cake is not just a culinary task, but also an opportunity to celebrate beautiful moments with loved ones. Enjoy every bite and don't forget to share this recipe with friends! Enjoy your meal!