Tree Bark Cake

Tree Bark Cake – A Delicacy with a Unique Texture

Preparation Time: 40 minutes
Baking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Number of Servings: 20 servings

Tree Bark Cake is a traditional recipe, full of flavor, that brings together the crunchy texture of the dough with the rich taste of walnuts. This cake is not just a dessert, but also a sweet memory of childhood, often prepared in families for holidays or special occasions. Let’s discover together how we can bring this delicacy to our table!

Ingredients

- 1 pack of margarine (200g) – at room temperature
- 1 egg – to add richness and moisture
- 1 cup of milk (about 250ml) – enriches the dough
- 300g walnut kernels – finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons of sugar – for a touch of sweetness
- Flour – as needed (about 1kg) – to obtain a sufficiently firm dough
- 1 beaten egg – for brushing

Necessary Utensils

- Large mixing bowl
- Baking tray
- Special molds (or a regular baking tray)
- Grater or knife for walnuts
- Kitchen scissors for cutting the dough

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Dough: In a large bowl, add the margarine at room temperature. Add a pinch of salt, the egg, and the milk. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated. This step is essential for achieving a homogeneous dough.

2. Adding the Flour: Start adding the flour gradually, mixing by hand. Continue adding flour until you obtain a sufficiently firm dough that does not stick to your hands. This may take a few minutes, but patience will yield delicious results!

3. Resting the Dough: Once the dough is ready, cover it with a damp towel and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This resting time will allow the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

4. Shaping the Cakes: After the dough has rested, shape it into a roll and cut it into suitable pieces. Roll each piece into a thin sheet. Use flour to prevent sticking.

5. Brush and Sprinkle: In a small bowl, beat an egg and brush each sheet of dough with it. Then, sprinkle sugar on top, followed by the chopped walnut kernels. This layer of walnuts will add not only flavor but also a crunchy texture.

6. Cutting and Placing: Gently press down with your palm to secure the walnuts, then cut the sheet into long strips, followed by diamonds. Place them in the special molds or on a baking tray, leaving a small space between them for even baking.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the cakes for 5-10 minutes or until they turn golden. Be careful, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.

8. Cooling: Once baked, carefully remove the cakes from the tray and place them in a basket to cool. This step is important to maintain the crunchy texture of the cakes.

Useful Tips

- Quality Ingredients: Use good quality margarine for a better taste. Also, fresh walnuts have a more intense flavor, so make sure they are well stored.
- Variations: You can try adding spices like cinnamon or vanilla to the dough for a different flavor note. You can also substitute walnuts with almonds or hazelnuts, depending on your preferences.
- Sugar: If you prefer a less sweet taste, you can reduce the amount of sugar or opt for brown sugar, which adds a caramelized note.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake contains walnut kernels, which are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and antioxidants. Consuming walnuts can contribute to heart health and reduce inflammation. Additionally, sugar and margarine provide quick energy, making this cake a good choice for a sweet snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use butter instead of margarine? Yes, butter can be used as an alternative, but it will slightly change the taste and texture.
- How can I store the cakes? Keep the cakes in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.
- Can I freeze the cakes? Yes, these cakes can be frozen. Make sure they are completely cooled and placed in a freezer-safe container.

Serving Suggestions

Tree Bark Cake pairs perfectly with a cup of aromatic tea or freshly brewed coffee. You can also try serving it with vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast between warm and cold.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! Enjoy every step of the process and savor your cake with loved ones. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this cake will surely bring smiles to the faces of those who taste it. Enjoy!