Walnut and cocoa cake

Nut and Cocoa Sweet Bread - A Delicious Recipe for Unforgettable Moments

The sweet bread is a traditional recipe, rich in history and symbolism, that reminds us of holidays spent with loved ones. The enticing aromas of nuts, cocoa, and oranges transport us to times of joy and family warmth. This nut and cocoa sweet bread recipe is not just a simple dessert, but a true culinary experience that can transform any meal into a special moment.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 2 sweet breads

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 2 eggs
- 10 g dry yeast
- 100 g sugar
- 200 ml milk
- 60 g butter (melted and cooled)
- 550 g flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon candied orange peel

For the filling:
- 200 g ground nuts
- 50 g dark cocoa
- 100 g sugar (or more, depending on preferences)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- rum essence (to taste)
- milk (as needed for desired consistency)

For brushing:
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons milk

Step by step

1. Preparing the filling:
In a bowl, mix the ground nuts with sugar, cocoa, cinnamon, and rum essence. Gradually add hot milk, stirring continuously, until you obtain a creamy but not too liquid mixture. This filling will add a rich layer of flavor to your sweet bread.

2. Activating the yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the dry yeast with a tablespoon of sugar, 50 ml of warm milk, and a little flour. Mix well and let it sit in a warm place for about 10-15 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and starts to form bubbles. This step is essential to ensure even rising of the sweet bread.

3. Preparing the dough:
In the bowl of a bread machine or a large bowl, add the activated yeast, eggs, remaining sugar, salt, melted and cooled butter, candied orange peel, and the remaining milk. Gradually add flour, mixing with a spatula or by hand until you obtain an elastic dough. If using a bread machine, set it to the dough program and let it do its job.

4. Rising the dough:
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial as it helps develop the flavors and texture of the sweet bread.

5. Shaping the sweet bread:
After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 4 equal parts. Roll each piece into a rectangular sheet about 0.5 cm thick. Evenly distribute the nut and cocoa filling on each sheet, leaving a few centimeters free at the edges for rolling. Roll each sheet tightly, forming 4 rolls.

6. Braiding:
Take two rolls and carefully braid them together, then repeat with the other two. Place the two braids in greased baking trays lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a towel and let them rise again for about 20 minutes.

7. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Meanwhile, brush the sweet breads with the egg yolk and milk mixture for a beautifully golden crust. Bake the sweet breads for 40-50 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a stick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

8. Cooling and serving:
Let the sweet breads cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut them only after they have completely cooled to avoid crumbling.

Useful tips

- Sugar: If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can add more sugar to the filling. You can also use brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor.
- Nuts: If you don't have nuts, you can experiment with almonds or hazelnuts. Each variation will give the sweet bread a special note.
- Cocoa: Make sure to use quality dark cocoa, as the flavor will influence the final taste of the sweet bread.

Variations

- Chocolate sweet bread: Replace cocoa with melted chocolate for a more decadent filling.
- Fruit sweet bread: Add raisins or dried cranberries to the filling for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Frequently asked questions

1. Why didn't my sweet bread rise well?
Make sure the yeast is active. Using expired yeast or a too-cold environment can hinder rising.

2. How can I keep the sweet bread fresh longer?
Store it in an airtight container or wrapped in cling film to prevent drying out.

3. What can I serve with the sweet bread?
The sweet bread is delicious alongside a cup of warm milk, coffee, or tea. You can also serve it with jam or a spoonful of Nutella for an extra treat.

Nutritional benefits

Nut and cocoa sweet bread is not only tasty but also offers nutritional benefits. Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, while cocoa contributes to heart health and improves mood.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to try this nut and cocoa sweet bread recipe. Each bite will bring you joy and pleasant memories, and the enticing aromas will fill your home with warmth. Happy cooking!