Mazurek Orzechowy Nut Shortcrust Cake

With the holiday season approaching, it’s the perfect time to add a taste of Poland to your Christmas baking repertoire. Mazurek Orzechowy, a traditional Polish Nut Shortcrust Cake, is a delightful treat that combines the richness of nuts with the sweetness of a buttery shortcrust base. This beloved recipe is a must-have at many Polish Christmas gatherings, making it a delightful addition to your table as well.

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**Mazurek Orzechowy Nut Shortcrust Cake**

**Ingredients:**

For the Shortcrust Dough:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Nut Filling:
– 1 cup mixed nuts (such as walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts), chopped
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– Pinch of salt

For Topping:
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Shortcrust Dough:**
– In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
– Add the cold cubed butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
– Stir in the beaten egg and vanilla extract until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. **Make the Nut Filling:**
– In a saucepan, combine the chopped nuts, honey, butter, heavy cream, cinnamon, and salt.
– Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the nuts are coated in the caramel-like syrup. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. **Assemble the Cake:**
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
– Take the chilled dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit the size of your baking tray. Transfer the dough to the prepared tray.
– Spread the nut filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

4. **Bake and Serve:**
– Bake the Mazurek Orzechowy in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
– Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
– Once cool, dust the top of the cake generously with powdered sugar.
– Cut the Mazurek into slices or squares and serve it as a delightful treat during your Christmas festivities.

Enjoy this Mazurek Orzechowy Nut Shortcrust Cake with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy and festive touch to your holiday celebrations. The rich nutty flavors and crumbly shortcrust base are sure to impress your family and friends, making it a standout dessert that captures the essence of a traditional Polish Christmas. Give this recipe a try and bring a taste of Poland to your own kitchen this holiday season. Happy baking!