Walnut, cocoa, caramel, and coconut cake

Nut Roll with Walnut, Cocoa, Caramel, and Coconut: A Holiday Delight

The nut roll is more than just a simple dessert; it is a tradition, a symbol of the holidays, and the joy of spending time with loved ones. This captivating recipe for nut roll with walnut, cocoa, caramel, and coconut is perfect for making holiday days truly special. Inspired by Bertoni D Albert's recipe, this version adds a delicious twist with rich, aromatic fillings. Let's embark on our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 12 hours (including refrigeration)
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total: 12 hours 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:

- 500 g all-purpose flour, sifted twice for a fluffier texture
- 1 packet of dry yeast
- 150 g granulated sugar
- 150 ml full-fat milk (3%)
- 50 ml canola oil
- 2 eggs
- Zest of 1 lemon and 1 orange
- 1 tablespoon rum extract
- 50 g dark cocoa
- 250 g ground walnuts
- A pinch of iodized salt
- 50 g homemade caramel
- 100 g coconut

Useful tips about ingredients:

1. Flour: Choose high-quality, gluten-rich flour to achieve a fluffy dough. Sift the flour twice to incorporate air and achieve a finer texture.
2. Yeast: Ensure the yeast is fresh. A simple test is to dissolve it in warm milk with a pinch of sugar; if it forms bubbles, it is active.
3. Caramel: Making caramel at home may seem intimidating, but it's simple. I recommend using granulated sugar and water, boiling them until golden. You can find detailed recipes online if you need assistance.

Preparation technique:

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, sift the flour twice. In another container, mix the warm milk with the dry yeast and sugar, letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Add the egg yolks, salt, lemon and orange zest, and rum extract.

2. Kneading: Add the wet mixture to the flour and start kneading. If you have a stand mixer, use it to save time and effort. Once the dough becomes slightly sticky, add the oil and continue kneading until you have an elastic and smooth dough.

3. Let the dough rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or, ideally, overnight. This process will enhance the flavor and texture of the nut roll.

4. Fillings: The next day, take the dough out of the refrigerator and divide it into two balls. On a floured surface, roll out the first ball. Spread it with the homemade caramel, sprinkle with coconut, and roll it up. For the second ball, roll out the walnut cream, sprinkle with cocoa, and roll it up again.

5. Braiding: Take the two rolls and carefully braid them. Place them in a loaf pan lined with parchment paper. Let the nut roll rise in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Brush the nut roll with beaten egg and sprinkle vanilla sugar on top. Bake for 45 minutes until golden and baked through. Check if it is done with a simple test: insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the nut roll is ready.

7. Cooling and serving: Let the nut roll cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving suggestions:

The nut roll with walnut, cocoa, caramel, and coconut is served with a cup of fragrant tea or coffee. It can also be enjoyed alongside vanilla ice cream or a berry sauce for a delicious contrast.

Possible variations:

- You can experiment with other fillings, such as chocolate, raisins, or poppy seeds.
- Substitute coconut with ground almonds for a different flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

This nut roll provides a good dose of carbohydrates from the flour, protein from the eggs and nuts, and healthy fats. Coconut is also rich in fiber and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast? Yes, use about 20 g of fresh yeast for the same amount of flour.

2. How long can the nut roll be stored? The nut roll keeps well in an airtight container for up to a week. It can also be frozen for later consumption.

3. How can I tell if the dough has risen well? The dough should double in volume and be fluffy to the touch.

The nut roll with walnut, cocoa, caramel, and coconut is a recipe that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a touch of nostalgia and warmth to every household. Experiment with ingredients, customize it to your taste, and enjoy every moment spent around the table with loved ones. Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!