Nussecken, or German Nut Corners, are a deliciously rich and nutty treat that captures the essence of German baking. These delightful pastries combine a buttery shortcrust base, a sweet and sticky nut topping, and a hint of chocolate, making them incredibly tempting and satisfying. Each bite delivers a crunchy texture paired with a sweet, nutty flavor that is simply irresistible. Perfect for coffee breaks, festive gatherings, or simply indulging yourself, Nussecken are not just a treat; they are a delicious experience that brings comfort and joy.
If you’re new to baking or a seasoned cook, you will find that making Nussecken is straightforward and rewarding. The aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake is just the beginning of the delightful experience. Each piece is not only a taste sensation but also a beautifully presented dessert that will impress your family and friends. In this guide, you will discover why this recipe is so special, how to prepare it, and tips for serving these incredible nut corners. Let’s dive into the world of Nussecken!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Nussecken is a beloved dessert for many reasons. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
1. Simple Ingredients – Most of the ingredients are kitchen staples, making it easy to whip up whenever the craving strikes.
2. Quick to Prepare – With minimal hands-on time, you can have these treats ready in no time.
3. Ideal for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an afternoon snack, Nussecken fit perfectly into any setting.
4. Impressive Presentation – Their triangular shape and glossy nut topping make for an elegant display.
5. Deliciously Nutty – The combination of nuts and caramelized sugar creates a flavor profile that is both rich and satisfying.
6. Versatile Recipe – You can customize the nuts used in the topping to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
7. Easy to Store – Nussecken holds well for several days, making them great for meal prep or gifts.
With these factors in mind, you’ll understand why Nussecken are a cherished favorite among many. Each bite reveals layers of flavor and texture that are simply delightful!
Preparation and Cooking Time
Making Nussecken is not only enjoyable but also efficient. Here’s a breakdown of the time required for preparation and baking:
– Preparation Time: 30 minutes
– Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
– Cooling Time: 20-30 minutes
In total, you can expect to spend around 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish, depending on your kitchen experience. This makes it a perfect recipe for a weekend baking session or a quick treat during the week.
Ingredients
– For the Shortcrust Base:
– 250g all-purpose flour
– 125g unsalted butter, softened
– 100g granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
– For the Nut Topping:
– 200g mixed nuts (such as hazelnuts, almonds, and walnuts), chopped
– 150g granulated sugar
– 150ml heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– For the Chocolate Drizzle:
– 100g dark chocolate, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating Nussecken is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray (approximately 9×13 inches) with parchment paper.
2. Make the Shortcrust Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
3. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking tray.
4. Prepare the Nut Topping: In a saucepan, combine sugar, cream, honey, and vanilla extract over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
5. Add the Nuts: Remove the mixture from heat and stir in the chopped nuts until well-coated.
6. Spread the Topping: Pour the nut mixture over the shortcrust base, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
8. Cool and Cut: Remove from the oven and let it cool in the tray for about 20-30 minutes. Once cool, cut into triangles or squares.
9. Drizzle with Chocolate: Drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the pieces for an added touch of elegance.
10. Let Set: Allow the chocolate to set before transferring to a serving plate or storage container.
These steps will guide you in creating Nussecken effortlessly, leading to a delightful treat that you can be proud of!
How to Serve
To make a lasting impression when serving Nussecken, consider the following tips:
1. Presentation: Arrange the pieces on a decorative platter or tiered stand for an appealing display.
2. Beverage Pairing: Serve with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate to complement the rich flavors of the nut corners.
3. Accompaniments: Pair with fresh fruit, such as berries or slices of apple, to add a refreshing contrast.
4. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, ensuring they remain fresh and delightful.
By considering these serving ideas, you can enhance the experience of enjoying Nussecken, making them even more memorable for you and your guests.
Additional Tips
– Use Fresh Nuts: For the best flavor, opt for fresh, high-quality nuts. Toasting them lightly can enhance their richness.
– Let Them Cool Completely: Allow Nussecken to cool completely before cutting. This helps maintain their shape and makes for cleaner slices.
– Play with Flavors: If you desire a unique taste, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of almond extract to the nut mixture.
Recipe Variation
Feel free to experiment with your Nussecken! Here are some variations to try:
1. Chocolate Nut Topping: Incorporate cocoa powder into your nut topping for a chocolatey twist.
2. Dried Fruit Addition: Add chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries to the nut mixture for added sweetness and texture.
3. Different Nut Combinations: Substitute the mixed nuts with your favorite nuts, like cashews or pecans, to create your personalized flavor profile.
Freezing and Storage
– Storage: Store Nussecken in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain fresh for up to one week.
– Freezing: You can freeze slices by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Special Equipment
To make your Nussecken successfully, you will need the following tools:
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer or whisk
– Baking tray (approximately 9×13 inches)
– Parchment paper for lining
– Saucepan for preparing the nut topping
– Sharp knife for cutting
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of nuts?
Yes, you can customize the nut topping with any combination of nuts you prefer, such as pecans, cashews, or macadamia nuts.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep Nussecken in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness. They can also be refrigerated for longer shelf life.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make Nussecken gluten-free.
Can I make Nussecken in advance?
Absolutely! Nussecken taste even better after a day as the flavors meld. You can prepare them a day ahead of serving.
Conclusion
Nussecken, or German Nut Corners, are an irresistible treat that combines simple ingredients into a deliciously satisfying dessert. Their lovely texture and nutty flavor make them a favorite for gatherings and personal indulgence alike. With easy preparation and plenty of variations, this recipe invites you to create your version of this delightful pastry. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy the wonderful experience of baking and savoring Nussecken!
Nussecken: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 7 Amazing Slices
- Total Time: 42 minute
Ingredients
– For the Shortcrust Base:
– 250g all-purpose flour
– 125g unsalted butter, softened
– 100g granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
– For the Nut Topping:
– 200g mixed nuts (such as hazelnuts, almonds, and walnuts), chopped
– 150g granulated sugar
– 150ml heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– For the Chocolate Drizzle:
– 100g dark chocolate, melted
Instructions
Creating Nussecken is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray (approximately 9×13 inches) with parchment paper.
2. Make the Shortcrust Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
3. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking tray.
4. Prepare the Nut Topping: In a saucepan, combine sugar, cream, honey, and vanilla extract over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
5. Add the Nuts: Remove the mixture from heat and stir in the chopped nuts until well-coated.
6. Spread the Topping: Pour the nut mixture over the shortcrust base, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
8. Cool and Cut: Remove from the oven and let it cool in the tray for about 20-30 minutes. Once cool, cut into triangles or squares.
9. Drizzle with Chocolate: Drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the pieces for an added touch of elegance.
10. Let Set: Allow the chocolate to set before transferring to a serving plate or storage container.
These steps will guide you in creating Nussecken effortlessly, leading to a delightful treat that you can be proud of!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 pieces
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 4g