Nut Roll

Nut Roll: A Traditional Delicacy for the Soul and Family

When we think of nut roll, cherished memories come to mind, the warmth of a loving home, and the inviting aroma of freshly baked dough. This dessert is not just a simple recipe; it is a true tradition that connects us to our loved ones. Today, I will guide you step by step to prepare a nut roll that will delight any festive meal or bring joy to ordinary days.

Total preparation time: 3 hours
Working time: 1 hour
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12 slices

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg nut roll dough (you can use a nut roll dough recipe or buy it from a bakery)
- 300 g walnuts, ground (choose fresh walnuts for a more intense flavor)
- 1 cup (250 ml) lukewarm milk
- 100 ml rum (optional, but recommended for a special aroma)
- 1 vanilla bean (or 2 tablespoons vanilla extract)

Making the nut roll is a true art, but with the right tips, you will achieve a perfect result:

Step 1: Preparing the Dough
If you choose to make the dough from scratch, I recommend following a classic nut roll recipe that includes flour, yeast, sugar, eggs, milk, and butter. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a fluffy dough. Start by dissolving the yeast in lukewarm milk and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then, mix all the ingredients and knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic.

Step 2: Rising the Dough
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in volume. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy nut roll.

Step 3: Preparing the Filling
While the dough is rising, you can prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix the ground walnuts with sugar (if you prefer a sweeter nut roll) and add the rum for a deeper flavor. If using a vanilla bean, split it lengthwise, scrape out the seeds, and add them to the mixture. Mix well to combine the flavors.

Step 4: Shaping the Nut Roll
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface, forming a rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the entire surface of the dough. Roll the dough from one end to the other, forming a tight log. You can choose to braid the log for a more sophisticated appearance. Place it in a greased baking pan, leaving a little space between rolls if making more than one.

Step 5: Second Rising
Cover the pan with a clean towel and let the nut roll rise for another 30 minutes. This will ensure that the nut roll rises beautifully during baking.

Step 6: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). When the nut roll is ready, you can brush it with a mixture of beaten egg and a little milk for a golden crust. Bake the nut roll for about 45-60 minutes or until it turns golden and passes the toothpick test. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Serving
The nut roll is usually served sliced, alongside a fragrant tea or a glass of sweet wine. You can dust it with powdered sugar for a festive touch. If you want to add a note of originality, try serving it with caramel sauce or vanilla ice cream.

Variation suggestions:
For a different taste, you can add raisins, chocolate, or cocoa to the filling. You can also experiment with different types of nuts, such as hazelnuts or almonds.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use roasted nuts instead of raw nuts?
Yes, roasted nuts add an intensified flavor, but make sure they are finely ground to integrate well into the filling.

2. Is the rum necessary in the filling?
No, the rum is optional, but it adds a note of flavor and complexity. You can omit it if you prefer an alcohol-free version.

3. How can I keep the nut roll fresh for longer?
I recommend storing it in a plastic bag or an airtight container. Additionally, the nut roll freezes very well, allowing you to enjoy this delicacy again at a later date.

The nut roll is more than just a dessert; it is a cooking experience that brings family and friends together, blending tradition and innovation. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and let yourself be carried away by the magic of making this wonderful nut roll!