Chocolate Walnut Cake

This chocolate walnut cake is a delightful treat that perfectly blends rich chocolate flavors with the earthy taste of walnuts. It's an ideal dessert for those who appreciate the combination of sweet and nutty flavors. This cake is moist and dense, making it perfect for any occasion, from dinner parties to casual get-togethers. The use of dark chocolate ensures a deep, intense flavor, while the walnuts add a crunchy texture. The hint of lemon zest adds a refreshing touch, making every bite an adventure. With a buttery base and light vanilla undertones, this cake is comforting yet sophisticated. It's a simple yet elegant dessert that can be made with a handful of ingredients. Whether you're an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and guarantees impressive results. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy it on its own for a satisfying treat.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 200 g dark chocolate
• 150 g walnuts
• 250 g butter
• 100 g sugar
• 6 eggs
• 2 tablespoons flour

Spices and Flavorings

• 1/2 lemon zest, grated
• 1 packet vanilla sugar

Preparation Time

• Total: 120 minutes (including preparation and cooking time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (392°F).
2. Grease the Cake Pan: Prepare a cake tin by greasing it with butter or cooking spray. It should preferably have removable sides for easier cake removal.
3. Grate the Chocolate: Grate the dark chocolate using a coarse grater, which will help with smooth melting and mixing later on.
4. Grind the Walnuts: In a food processor, finely grind 100 g of the walnuts. Set aside the remaining walnuts for topping.
5. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This process is essential for creating a nice, airy texture in the cake.
6. Add Eggs: Crack the eggs into the mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures a uniform mix and smooth batter.
7. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the ground walnuts, flour, grated chocolate, lemon zest, and vanilla sugar.
8. Incorporate the Dry Mixture: Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, folding gently with a spatula or whisk until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the batter airy.
9. Pour in the Tin: Spoon the cake batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the surface with a spatula.
10. Top with Walnuts: Coarsely chop the remaining walnuts and sprinkle them evenly over the top of the batter.
11. Bake the Cake: Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes at 180°C (356°F).
12. Check for Doneness: To test if the cake is cooked through, insert a wooden skewer into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.
13. Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
14. Enjoy: Once completely cooled, slice the cake and serve as desired.
15. Serve: For an extra treat, serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream.
16. Store: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
17. Optional Garnish: Dust the top with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a decorative touch.
18. Clean Up: Clean up the workspace and utensils used during the preparation.
19. Garnish and Enjoy Again: If serving later or on a different day, consider adding fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.
20. Feedback: Enjoy serving this to your friends and family, and listen for feedback to adjust the recipe in future bakes!

Tips

• Chocolate: Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.
• Walnuts: Substitute with pecans or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor.
• Lemon: Adjust the quantity of lemon zest to your taste preference.
• Baking: If the cake browns too quickly on top, cover it loosely with foil during the last 20 minutes of baking.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 500 kcal per serving
• Protein: 7 g
• Fats: 35 g
• Carbs: 40 g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Replace regular flour with almond flour for a gluten-free version.
• Less Sweet: Reduce the sugar by 20 g for a less sweet cake.
• Dairy-Free: Use a butter substitute like coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Serve with a side of fresh berries for a tart contrast.
• Complement with a warm cup of coffee or a scoop of coffee-flavored ice cream.

Best Places

• Cafe Central - Charming old-world cafe with exceptional pastries. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Chocolatería San Ginés - Famous for its churros and chocolate, this spot is a chocolate lover's dream. Location: Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5, Madrid, Spain.
• Angelina - Renowned for its hot chocolate and delectable pastries. Location: 226 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
• Demel - Iconic pastry shop with rich historical ties to Viennese royalty. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Gerbeaud - Offers elegant cakes and chocolates in a historic setting. Location: Vörösmarty tér 7-8, Budapest, Hungary.
• Sundae School Ice Cream - A quaint spot for homemade ice cream. Location: 605 Main Street, Harwich Port, USA.
• Tosca - An Italian delight with a chocolate and walnut specialty. Location: Via dell’Oca, 27-28, Rome, Italy.
• Herve Bachellerie - Known for exclusive chocolates and innovative flavors. Location: Rue Saint-Pierre, Angers, France.
• Mendl’s Bakery - Famous from film, offers incredible pastries. Location: Pattensen, Niedersachsen, Germany.
• Serendipity 3 - Offers an over-the-top dessert fantasy experience. Location: 225 E 60th St, New York, USA.