Walnut cake with strawberry jam and meringue

Meringue and Walnut Cake: A Delicacy for All Sweet Tooths

When it comes to desserts, this meringue and walnut cake stands out with its perfect combination of textures and flavors. Inspired by Madi's delicious recipe, this dish is ideal for impressing guests or simply indulging yourself over the weekend. Moreover, it is a simple, quick, and flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Necessary Ingredients:

For the base:
- 250 grams of margarine (we recommend Rama)
- 300 grams of flour
- 200 grams of sugar
- 6 egg yolks
- 1 vanilla essence or a vanilla pod
- ½ packet of baking powder
- Zest of one lemon
- 100 grams of strawberry jam (or any other preferred jam)

For the meringue:
- 6 egg whites
- 200 grams of sugar
- 100 grams of ground walnuts
- A pinch of salt

Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 150 degrees Celsius. This moderate temperature will allow the base and meringue to bake evenly, maintaining their desired texture.

2. Prepare the base: In a large bowl, add the softened margarine (ideally left at room temperature) and sugar. Mix them together until you achieve a creamy and homogeneous composition. Then add the vanilla, egg yolks, and lemon zest. Continue mixing until the ingredients are well integrated.

3. Incorporate the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Gradually add the flour mixture to the margarine composition, mixing gently to avoid lumps. Once the dough is ready, grease the baking tray (25/35 cm) with butter or margarine and dust it with flour, then evenly spread the dough in the tray.

4. Bake the base: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 20 minutes. It is important not to leave it longer, as the base should remain soft and moist.

5. Prepare the meringue: While the base is baking, you can prepare the meringue. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy. Then, gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a firm and glossy meringue. Finally, fold in the ground walnuts, mixing gently with a spatula to avoid deflating the meringue.

6. Assemble the cake: After the base has baked for 20 minutes, remove it from the oven and evenly spread the strawberry jam on top. This step adds a sweet and fruity note that perfectly complements the walnuts in the meringue. Carefully spread the meringue over the base, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

7. Final baking: Place the cake back in the oven at the same temperature. Bake for 15 minutes with the oven door closed, then another 5 minutes with the door slightly open. This step allows the meringue to become crispy on the outside while remaining soft inside.

8. Cooling: Once the cake is ready, let it cool completely in the tray. Although it is tempting to serve it immediately, it is best to let it sit overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify, providing an unforgettable experience.

9. Decoration: For an even more attractive appearance, you can decorate the cake with strawberry jelly and grated chocolate on top. Not only does it look superb, but it also adds an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions:
This meringue and walnut cake is perfect served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It also pairs wonderfully with a cup of fragrant tea or coffee. Don’t hesitate to serve it with a glass of sweet wine for a refined combination.

Nutritional Benefits:
This cake, besides its divine taste, contains some beneficial ingredients. Walnuts, for example, are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants. Additionally, strawberry jam not only adds flavor but also essential vitamins, such as vitamin C, which is beneficial for the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use another type of oil instead of margarine?
Yes, you can use butter or coconut oil, but the texture and taste may vary.

2. What else can I add to the meringue?
You can experiment by adding flavors like almond or cocoa to change the taste profile.

3. How can I store the cake?
It keeps well in the refrigerator, covered with foil or in an airtight container, for a few days.

This meringue and walnut cake becomes not just a dessert but also a memorable culinary experience. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, the result will always be delicious. Enjoy, sweet tooths!