Polish Christmas traditions are rich with flavorful treats that make the holiday season truly special. Today, we’re delving into the world of traditional Polish baking with a delightful recipe for Ciasto Orzechowe, also known as Walnut Cake. This decadent dessert encapsulates the warm and comforting flavors of the season, making it a perfect addition to your holiday table. The combination of rich walnuts and sweet ingredients creates a moist and indulgent cake that will have your guests coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring a taste of Polish tradition to your home this Christmas.
Ciasto Orzechowe Walnut Cake
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups finely chopped walnuts
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or cooking spray. Dust the pan with flour and tap out any excess. This will prevent the cake from sticking to the pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This may take about 3-4 minutes of mixing.
4. Add the eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
6. Gently fold in the finely chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
8. Bake the Ciasto Orzechowe in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve slices of this delicious Ciasto Orzechowe Walnut Cake on a festive platter and watch as your loved ones enjoy the delightful flavors and textures of this traditional Polish holiday dessert.
Enjoy the process of baking this Ciasto Orzechowe Walnut Cake and share the joy of Polish Christmas traditions with your family and friends. May the aroma of freshly baked cake fill your home with warmth and coziness, creating unforgettable moments during this special time of the year. Gather around the table and savor the flavors of the holiday season with this delightful treat. Happy baking!
