Sumegi Walnut Cake

Sumegi Walnut Cake: A Quiet and Satisfying Delight

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

Who doesn’t love a cake that combines a fine meringue base with a rich cream and a decadent chocolate glaze? The Sumegi Walnut Cake is a perfect choice for indulgent moments as well as for celebrations. With its airy texture and deep nutty flavor, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a culinary experience!

Ingredients needed:

For the base:
- 4 egg whites
- 125 g granulated sugar
- 100 g ground walnuts
- 1 tablespoon flour
- A pinch of salt

For the cream:
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 whole egg
- 125 g granulated sugar
- 25 g sifted cocoa powder
- 125 g butter (82% fat) at room temperature
- A pinch of salt

For the glaze:
- 100 g milk chocolate
- 50 g butter
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 bottle vanilla extract

For decoration:
- Toasted walnuts, coarsely chopped

Preparing the cake:

Step 1: Making the base
Start by preparing the base. In a clean bowl, place the 4 egg whites and a pinch of salt. Use a mixer to beat the egg whites until they form a frothy consistency. Gradually add the sugar in 3-4 batches while continuing to mix. The goal is to achieve a stiff, glossy meringue that holds well.

Once the meringue is ready, take another bowl and mix the ground walnuts with the flour. Gently fold this mixture into the meringue using a spatula, being careful not to deflate it.

Line a large baking tray (or the oven tray) with parchment paper and pour in the meringue mixture. Spread it evenly, then place the tray in a preheated oven at 180°C (medium heat) for about 25 minutes. The base is ready when the edges are slightly browned, but the center should remain slightly springy.

Step 2: Making the cream
While the base is baking, you can prepare the cream. In a metal bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole egg, sugar, salt, and sifted cocoa powder. Place the bowl over a double boiler and stir constantly until the mixture thickens. It should have a pudding-like consistency, but make sure it doesn’t curdle.

Once the cream has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Add the softened butter and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully combined.

Step 3: Making the glaze
For the glaze, melt the chocolate together with the butter and cream over a double boiler. Stir constantly until you achieve a smooth and homogeneous mixture.

Step 4: Assembling the cake
Once the base has cooled, cut it into three equal pieces vertically. On a serving platter, place the first piece of the base and spread half of the warm cream over it. Add the second piece of the base and spread the remaining cream on top. Place the last piece of the base and pour the chocolate glaze over it.

Step 5: Decorating and cooling
For an elegant touch, decorate the cake with coarsely chopped toasted walnuts. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, but ideally, wait until the next day to slice it. The flavors and textures will intensify, and each slice will be a true delight!

Helpful tips:
1. Patience: Although it’s tempting to cut the cake right after assembling it, letting it chill in the fridge for a longer period will help the flavors meld and make the cake easier to slice.

2. Variations: If you want to try something different, you can add a few drops of almond extract to the cream or glaze. You can also substitute the walnuts with almonds or hazelnuts for a new flavor combination.

3. Calories and nutritional benefits: This cake is rich in healthy fats from the walnuts, which are an excellent source of protein and antioxidants. A serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, but it’s packed with essential nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can the cake be frozen?: Yes, the cake can be frozen, but it’s recommended to wrap it well to avoid moisture freezing in.

- Can I use a different type of chocolate for the glaze?: Absolutely! You can use dark or white chocolate, depending on your preferences.

Serving suggestions: Serve the cake with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or ice cream, and for a delicious contrast, a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea will perfectly complement the dessert.

The Sumegi Walnut Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a family story, a tradition that can be shared at festive gatherings or during personal indulgent moments. Each bite will take you on a journey of flavors, and your friends and family will surely appreciate this delight! Enjoy!