Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of the Hamburg Chocolate and Walnut Loaf, a delectable treat that combines the lusciousness of chocolate with the crunch of walnuts. This recipe creates a moist and tender loaf that's perfect for a 25 cm by 12 cm mold, offering a delightful taste experience that many cherish. Whether you're a chocolate enthusiast or a lover of nutty flavors, this loaf promises to satisfy your cravings.
Why You'll Love This: The Hamburg Loaf stands out for its sophisticated blend of flavors, enhanced by the inclusion of port (or Cognac), which adds a deep and nuanced taste. The texture is perfectly balanced with the softness of the cake and the crunch of walnuts, making each bite a symphony of flavors. Its simple elegance and rich taste make it a versatile dessert, suitable for any occasion.
Perfect Occasion: This loaf is ideal for celebrations, afternoon teas, or as a luxurious treat to enjoy any day of the week. It's also a fantastic option for gifting, bringing a touch of homemade warmth to your loved ones. Whether served at gatherings or enjoyed quietly at home, this chocolate and walnut loaf is sure to be a hit.
Decoration Tips: For an extra touch of elegance, dust the cooled loaf with powdered sugar or drizzle it with a simple chocolate glaze. Garnishing with additional walnut pieces or chocolate shavings can enhance its visual appeal and flavor. Serve slices on their own or accompanied by whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Ingredients:
- 200g of softened butter
- 170g of sugar
- 100ml of port wine (or Cognac as an alternative)
- 4 eggs
- 180g of all-purpose flour
- 20g of cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 100g of chopped chocolate
- 50g of broken walnuts
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. Gradually mix in the port wine, continuing to beat until creamy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and cornstarch. Gently fold into the mixture in two additions, mixing just until incorporated.
- Divide the batter in half. Spread one half into the prepared loaf pan.
- To the remaining batter, add the chopped chocolate and walnuts, then mix and layer over the first half in the pan. This method helps distribute the chocolate and walnuts evenly without them sinking to the bottom.
- Bake in a greased and floured mold for about 40 minutes, or until a knife inserted comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before demolding.
Tips:
- Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly version.
- Replace port wine with vanilla extract if preferred, though port wine gives the loaf its distinctive flavor.
- Substitute butter with 160ml of sunflower oil for a different texture and to cater to dietary preferences.
Enjoy this exquisite Hamburg Chocolate and Walnut Loaf, a timeless recipe that marries the richness of chocolate with the delightful texture of walnuts, creating a dessert that's both luxurious and comforting.