Malvani Walnut Cake

Ingredients

In this Malvani adaptation of Karydopita, we infuse the cake with the distinct flavors of Malvani cuisine. Instead of using traditional Greek spices, we incorporate the aromatic spices commonly found in Malvani dishes, such as cardamom and saffron. Additionally, we enhance the sweetness of the cake by soaking it in a syrup infused with these spices, giving it a unique and exotic twist. We alse have the original recipe for Karydopita, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (100g) walnuts, finely chopped 1 cup (100g) walnuts, finely chopped
• 1 cup (200g) sugar 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 3 eggs 3 eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Fresh cream or Malvani ice cream, for serving Fresh cream or Malvani ice cream, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 42g, 25g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking pan.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, chopped walnuts, sugar, baking powder, ground cardamom, saffron strands, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, milk, and eggs until well combined.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. 5.
   Pour the batter into the greased baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. 6.
   Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. 7.
   While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup by combining 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of water, a few strands of saffron, and a pinch of ground cardamom in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes.
8. 8.
   Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the hot syrup over the hot cake, allowing it to soak in.
9. 9.
   Let the cake cool completely in the pan before removing and serving.
10. 10.
    Serve each slice of Malvani Walnut Cake with a dollop of fresh cream or a scoop of homemade Malvani ice cream.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Walnuts — Make sure to finely chop the walnuts to ensure an even distribution of nutty flavor throughout the cake.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, toast the walnuts before chopping them and adding them to the cake batter.
• If you prefer a stronger saffron flavor, soak the saffron strands in warm milk for 10 minutes before adding them to the batter.
• Serve the Malvani Walnut Cake warm for a comforting dessert experience.

Serving advice

Serve each slice of Malvani Walnut Cake with a generous dollop of fresh cream or a scoop of homemade Malvani ice cream. The creamy accompaniment complements the rich flavors of the cake and adds a delightful contrast in texture.

Presentation advice

Dust the top of the Malvani Walnut Cake with a sprinkle of ground cardamom or a few strands of saffron for an elegant and aromatic presentation. Alternatively, garnish with a few whole walnuts for a rustic touch.