The Albanian Walnut Cake with Lemon Glaze is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavor of walnuts with the bright and tangy taste of lemon. Here’s all the information you requested:
History:
The exact origins of this cake are not well-documented, but it’s a beloved dessert in Albanian cuisine. It’s likely that this cake has been passed down through generations in Albanian households, and variations of it can be found in different regions.
Components:
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For the Cake:
- 2 cups of finely chopped walnuts
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
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For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
- Lemon zest for garnish (optional)
Steps to Prepare:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch (23×23 cm) square baking pan.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped walnuts, all-purpose flour, and baking powder.
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In another bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
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Gradually add the melted butter and vanilla extract to the egg mixture, continuing to beat until well combined.
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Slowly fold the dry mixture (walnut, flour, and baking powder) into the wet mixture until you have a smooth batter.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
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Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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While the cake is baking, prepare the lemon glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until you have a smooth, pourable glaze.
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Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes in the pan.
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While the cake is still warm, poke several holes in it using a fork or skewer.
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Pour the lemon glaze evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to soak in.
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Let the cake cool completely before cutting it into squares.
Preparation Time:
The preparation time for this Albanian Walnut Cake with Lemon Glaze is approximately 20 minutes, and the baking time is around 25-30 minutes. So, in total, you can expect to spend around 45-50 minutes to prepare and bake this delicious dessert.
Enjoy your homemade Albanian Walnut Cake with Lemon Glaze! It’s a perfect balance of nuttiness and citrusy sweetness.
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Albanian Walnut Cake with Lemon Glaze:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving):
- Calories: 350-400 calories
- Total Fat: 20-25 grams
- Saturated Fat: 6-8 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Cholesterol: 60-80 milligrams
- Sodium: 50-75 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 40-45 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugars: 30-35 grams
- Protein: 5-6 grams
Health Information:
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Walnuts: Walnuts are a good source of healthy fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. They also provide protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, they are calorie-dense, so portion control is important.
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Lemon: Lemon provides vitamin C and antioxidants. It can help boost your immune system and aid in digestion. The lemon glaze adds a tangy flavor without a significant increase in calories.
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Sugar: While sugar is a key ingredient for sweetness in this dessert, it’s essential to consume it in moderation. High sugar intake can contribute to various health issues, including weight gain and dental problems.
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Portion Control: Due to the calorie content and sugar content, it’s advisable to enjoy this cake in moderation as an occasional treat rather than a regular indulgence.
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Balanced Diet: Including a variety of foods in your diet, along with occasional treats like this cake, is important for maintaining a balanced and healthy eating pattern.
Remember that the specific nutritional content can vary based on the recipe and portion size, so it’s a good practice to check the packaging or calculate the exact values based on your ingredients and serving size.
