The holiday season brings with it a wonderful array of festive treats, and in Poland, one of the most beloved Christmas baking traditions is making Mazurek Czekoladowy, a delectable Chocolate Shortcrust Cake. This rich and indulgent dessert is a staple on many Polish tables during the holiday season, enjoyed by both young and old alike. With a buttery crust and a luscious chocolate filling, Mazurek Czekoladowy is sure to delight your taste buds and bring joy to your home. Follow this recipe to create your own delightful Mazurek Czekoladowy to share with your loved ones this Christmas.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup apricot jam
– 1 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour and cocoa powder. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and salt to the butter mixture, and mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, making sure to smooth out the surface.
7. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until set and slightly firm to the touch.
8. Remove the crust from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.
9. Once the crust has cooled, spread the apricot jam evenly over the top.
10. Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the jam layer, pressing them slightly into the surface.
11. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the jam is bubbling and the nuts are lightly toasted.
12. Allow the Mazurek Czekoladowy to cool in the pan before carefully lifting it out using the parchment paper.
13. Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
14. Cut the Mazurek Czekoladowy into squares or rectangles to serve.
Your Mazurek Czekoladowy Chocolate Shortcrust Cake is now ready to be enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of mulled wine. This delightful treat is perfect for holiday gatherings, as a gift for friends and family, or simply as a sweet indulgence for yourself. The combination of the rich chocolate flavor, tangy apricot jam, and crunchy nuts makes this dessert a true delight for the senses.
So, why not add a touch of Polish tradition to your Christmas celebrations this year with this delicious Mazurek Czekoladowy recipe? Your home will be filled with the warm and inviting aromas of chocolate and spices, creating a cozy and festive atmosphere for all to enjoy. Have fun baking and sharing the joy of this delightful Christmas treat with your loved ones!
