Black Walnut Chocolate Pound Cake

Black Walnut Chocolate Pound Cake Recipe - Indulge in the rich flavor of black walnuts and bittersweet chocolate

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

The Black Walnut Chocolate Pound Cake is a rich, decadent dessert that combines the earthy flavors of black walnuts with the sweet, indulgent taste of chocolate. This cake is perfect for special occasions, holidays, or as a luxurious treat to enjoy any day of the week. With its moist, dense texture and a glaze that adds an extra layer of flavor, this cake is sure to impress both family and friends.

History

The tradition of pound cake dates back to the early 18th century in Europe, with the original recipes calling for a pound each of flour, sugar, butter, and eggs. Over time, the recipe evolved, incorporating various flavors and ingredients. The addition of black walnuts and chocolate to the pound cake is a relatively modern twist, combining traditional baking techniques with the rich flavors of these two ingredients. Black walnuts, known for their bold, distinctive taste, have been used in American cooking for centuries, while chocolate adds a universally beloved sweetness to the cake.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of shortening
1 cup of butter
3 cups of granulated sugar
5 eggs
1 tsp of vanilla
0.25 tsp of salt
0.5 tsp of baking powder
5 tbsp of cocoa
3 cups of flour
1 cup of milk
1 cup of black walnuts

Glaze

2 cups of powdered sugar
3 tsp of hot coffee
1 tsp of almond extract

How to prepare

In a bowl, cream together the shortening, butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
In another bowl, sift together the salt, baking powder, cocoa, and flour.
Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with milk. Stir in the nuts.
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and bake the mixture for 1.5 hours.
After 10 minutes, cover the baked mixture and let it cool completely before serving.
Just before serving, drizzle the glaze over the top of the baked mixture.
To make the glaze, combine all the glaze ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding orange zest to the batter for a hint of citrus or substituting pecans for black walnuts for a different nutty flavor. For a less sweet option, reduce the sugar in the cake and glaze by a quarter.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Black Walnut Chocolate Pound Cake turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps to achieve a smooth, well-incorporated batter.

- When creaming the butter and sugar, beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake.

- Sift the dry ingredients to prevent lumps and ensure an even distribution of the cocoa and baking powder.

- Fold in the black walnuts gently to avoid overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense cake.

- Test the cake for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is delightful on its own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat. A cup of coffee or a glass of milk also pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the cake.

Cooking Techniques

The creaming method is crucial for this cake, where butter and sugar are beaten until light and fluffy. This technique incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture. Additionally, alternating the addition of dry ingredients with milk ensures a smooth, evenly mixed batter.

Ingredient Substitutions

If black walnuts are not available, regular walnuts or pecans can be used as a substitute. For those looking to reduce dairy, almond milk can replace regular milk, and a dairy-free butter substitute can be used in place of butter.

Make Ahead Tips

This cake can be made a day in advance, as it allows the flavors to meld together and the cake to become even more moist. Simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, dust the cake with powdered sugar or cocoa powder before drizzling with the glaze. Garnish with whole or chopped black walnuts for an added touch of sophistication.

Pairing Recommendations

A robust coffee or a glass of milk makes an excellent pairing with this cake, balancing its richness. For a more adult beverage, consider a dessert wine such as Port or a dark stout beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm slices gently in the microwave or serve at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this decadent cake contains approximately 400 calories. The majority of these calories come from the sugar, butter, and flour.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of Black Walnut Chocolate Pound Cake contains approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the granulated sugar and flour, which provide the cake's structure and sweetness.

Fats

This cake is rich in fats, with a single serving containing about 20 grams of fat. The fats come from the butter, shortening, and eggs, contributing to the cake's moist, dense texture and rich flavor.

Proteins

Each serving of the cake provides approximately 6 grams of protein. The protein sources in this recipe include the eggs and milk, which also contribute to the cake's structure and moisture.

Vitamins and minerals

The Black Walnut Chocolate Pound Cake contains various vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the milk, vitamin E from the nuts, and iron from the cocoa powder. However, it should be noted that this cake is more of an indulgent treat rather than a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains several common allergens, including nuts (black walnuts), dairy (butter and milk), and gluten (flour). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this cake or seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

The Black Walnut Chocolate Pound Cake is a high-calorie, indulgent treat that is rich in carbohydrates and fats. While it does provide some protein and a few vitamins and minerals, it is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

The Black Walnut Chocolate Pound Cake is a luxurious treat that combines the bold flavors of black walnuts with the sweetness of chocolate. Perfect for special occasions or as a decadent dessert, this cake is sure to impress. With detailed nutrition information, serving suggestions, and tips for making the perfect cake, this recipe is a comprehensive guide to creating a delicious, indulgent dessert that everyone will love.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy kitchen. As soon as I walked in, the rich and enticing aroma of chocolate filled the air, making my mouth water instantly. Martha greeted me with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye.

"Hello, my dear friend," she said, giving me a hug. "I have a special treat for you today. I'm going to teach you how to make my famous Black Walnut Chocolate Pound Cake."

I was thrilled beyond words. Martha was known far and wide for her delectable desserts, and I felt honored that she was willing to share one of her prized recipes with me. We got to work right away, gathering the ingredients and preheating the oven.

As Martha began to guide me through the steps, she shared with me the story behind the recipe. She told me that she had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. The recipe was a closely guarded family secret, known only to a select few.

Martha's grandmother had been a talented baker, known for her exquisite cakes and pastries. She had a keen sense for flavors and a knack for creating mouthwatering desserts that left everyone who tasted them craving more. The Black Walnut Chocolate Pound Cake was one of her most beloved creations, a rich and decadent treat that never failed to impress.

As Martha and I worked together in the kitchen, I listened intently to her instructions, eager to soak up every detail of the recipe. She showed me how to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, how to sift the dry ingredients together, and how to fold in the chopped black walnuts and rich, dark chocolate.

The batter came together beautifully, thick and luscious, with a heavenly aroma that filled the kitchen. Martha poured it into a greased and floured bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula before placing it in the oven to bake.

As we waited for the cake to bake, Martha regaled me with stories of her grandmother and their time spent together in the kitchen. She told me about the special bond they shared, and how her grandmother had passed down not just recipes, but a love for baking and a passion for creating delicious treats to share with loved ones.

When the cake finally emerged from the oven, golden and fragrant, Martha and I couldn't resist sneaking a taste while it was still warm. The rich, moist crumb practically melted in my mouth, the flavors of chocolate and black walnuts blending together in perfect harmony.

"It's perfect," Martha declared, her eyes sparkling with pride. "Just like my grandmother used to make."

I knew then that this recipe would hold a special place in my heart, just as it had in Martha's family for generations. I thanked her profusely for sharing it with me, promising to carry on the tradition and pass it down to my own loved ones.

And so, the Black Walnut Chocolate Pound Cake became a staple in my own kitchen, a beloved recipe that I would make for special occasions and gatherings with family and friends. Every time I baked it, I felt a connection to Martha and her grandmother, a sense of history and tradition that made each slice taste all the sweeter.

As I look back on that day in Martha's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of that recipe and the memories it holds. It's a reminder of the power of food to bring us together, to create lasting bonds and cherished moments that we carry with us always. And for that, I am truly thankful.