Walnuts and coffee cake (also known as anti gloom cake)

Nut and Coffee Cake: The Delight That Will Chase Away Your Melancholy

If you need a reason to smile, this nut and coffee cake is definitely the answer! Lovingly called the "anti-melancholy cake," this wonderful sweet combines the intense flavor of coffee with the rich aromas of nuts, creating a culinary experience that will delight your senses. Whether you enjoy it with coffee with friends or on a special occasion, each slice will bring a ray of sunshine to your day. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 25 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

*For the base:*
- 10 eggs (separated into yolks and whites)
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of semolina
- 200g ground walnuts
- 150g sugar
- 2 tablespoons of ground natural coffee
- 1 packet of baking powder (quenched with vinegar)

*For the cream:*
- 300g butter (ideally low-fat)
- 1 packet of vanilla pudding
- 400ml milk
- 2 eggs
- 200g walnuts (half ground, half chopped)
- 160g powdered sugar with vanilla flavor (about 2 packets)
- 10 tablespoons of instant coffee (or chicory, for a caffeine-free option)

*For the glaze:*
- 160g powdered sugar with vanilla flavor
- 50g butter
- 4-5 tablespoons of cocoa
- 2 tablespoons of rum essence
- 2 tablespoons of water

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the base

1. Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Choose a large rectangular baking tray and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat the yolks with the sugar until you get a fluffy, light-colored cream.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form stiff peaks.
4. Carefully fold the yolks into the egg whites, gently mixing with a spatula to keep the air in the egg whites.
5. Add the flour, semolina, ground walnuts, coffee, and the baking powder quenched with vinegar. Gently mix, then pour the mixture into the prepared tray.
6. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Once done, carefully turn the base onto a rack and remove the parchment paper. Allow it to cool completely.

Step 2: Preparing the cream

1. In a saucepan, prepare the vanilla pudding according to the instructions on the packet, using 400ml of milk instead of 500ml. Also add the 2 egg yolks, mixing well.
2. Once the pudding has cooled, we start working on the butter. Make sure the butter is soft, left at room temperature for a few hours beforehand. Beat it with the powdered sugar using a mixer until the sugar has dissolved and you have a smooth cream.
3. Fold the cooled pudding into the butter cream, mixing constantly.
4. Dissolve the instant coffee in 2-3 tablespoons of hot water, let it cool, then add it to the cream, mixing well.
5. Add the walnuts, half ground and half chopped, and mix again.

Step 3: Assembling the cake

1. Spread the cream evenly over the cooled base. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set slightly.

Step 4: Preparing the glaze

1. In a small saucepan, mix the powdered sugar, cocoa, butter, rum essence, and water. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until all the ingredients are completely melted and smooth.
2. Let the glaze cool slightly, but not enough to harden. Now you can pour the glaze over the cake from the refrigerator, covering it evenly.

Step 5: Cooling and serving

1. Place the cake back in the refrigerator for a few hours or ideally overnight, to allow the glaze to set well.
2. Cut the cake into servings and serve with a glass of milk, tea, or, for those who wish, with a cup of coffee.

Useful tips

- Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature, especially the butter, to achieve a smooth cream.
- If you want to try a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the cream or use a natural substitute like honey or maple syrup.
- You can add dried fruits, such as raisins or apricots, to the base or cream for an interesting taste and texture.

Nutritional benefits

- Walnuts are an excellent source of magnesium, helping to support nervous system health.
- Coffee, in the moderate amounts in this cake, can provide an energy boost and improve mood.
- This cake also contains protein from the eggs, which are essential for muscle development.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use roasted nuts? Yes, roasted nuts add a more intense flavor.
- How can I store the cake? It keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for a few days.
- Can I use another type of milk? Of course! Almond or coconut milk are excellent options for a dairy-free version.

This nut and coffee cake will not only delight you with its taste but will also bring joy to your home. Whether you enjoy it alone or share it with loved ones, each slice will bring a smile to the faces of those who taste it. So, don't hesitate and let your imagination soar in the kitchen! Enjoy!