Orašnica - Croatian Walnut Roll

Ingredients

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
• 250ml (1 cup) milk, lukewarm 250ml (1 cup) milk, lukewarm
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 300g (2 cups) walnuts, finely ground 300g (2 cups) walnuts, finely ground
• 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• For dusting: For dusting:
• Powdered sugar Powdered sugar

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 24g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 47g, 20g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar in lukewarm milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. 3.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. 4.
   Meanwhile, prepare the filling by mixing the ground walnuts, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle of about 40x30cm (16x12 inches) on a floured surface.
7. 7.
   Spread the walnut filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
8. 8.
   Carefully transfer the rolled dough onto the prepared baking sheet, seam side down. Shape it into a crescent or a circle, joining the ends together.
9. 9.
   Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the Orašnica is golden brown.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Walnuts — Ensure the walnuts are finely ground for a smooth filling.
• Active dry yeast — Make sure the yeast is fresh and activate it in lukewarm milk with sugar to ensure proper rising of the dough.
• Lemon zest — Use organic lemons for the zest to avoid any bitterness.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, toast the walnuts before grinding them.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for a unique twist.
• Serve the Orašnica warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• This recipe can be easily doubled to make a larger Orašnica.

Serving advice

Slice the Orašnica into thick pieces and serve it on a dessert plate. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a sprig of fresh mint for an elegant touch.

Presentation advice

Place the Orašnica on a decorative serving platter, allowing its beautiful shape and golden color to shine. Dust it generously with powdered sugar for an enticing presentation.