Karydopita
Description
Karydopita is a classic Greek celebration cake known for its rich, moist texture and intense walnut flavor. This dense, sweet dessert relies on a generous amount of chopped walnuts and zwieback crumbs for a unique crumb structure. The cake is baked until just set, then drenched in a warm syrup infused with orange or lemon peel and cloves, ensuring every bite is fragrant and succulent. Traditionally served in diamond shapes, it is a staple at Easter, weddings, and festive gatherings. The combination of the nutty cake body, the sharp citrus notes, and the subtle warmth of cinnamon and cloves creates a sophisticated flavor profile that pairs beautifully with strong coffee or a glass of sweet wine.Directions
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Combine the water, 2 1/2 cups of the sugar, orange or lemon peel, and cloves in a saucepan.
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Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes.
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Remove the peel and cloves from the syrup and allow it to cool completely.
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Using an electric mixer, beat the egg yolks until light and lemon-colored.
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Gradually add the remaining 1 1/2 cups of sugar to the egg yolks while mixing.
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In a separate small bowl, mix the Cognac, vanilla extract, and baking soda.
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Slowly add the Cognac mixture to the yolk and sugar mixture, mixing on low speed.
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Combine the crushed zwieback, chopped walnuts, and ground cinnamon in a bowl.
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Gradually add the nut and zwieback mixture to the batter, mixing on low speed until just combined.
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In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.
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Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cake batter in two additions.
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Pour the batter into a greased 15 1/2" x 11" x 2" baking pan.
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Bake in a 350 degree oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is a deep chestnut color.
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Remove the cake from the oven and set it on a wire rack.
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Spoon the cooled syrup evenly over the warm cake.
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Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan so it can absorb the syrup.
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Cut into traditional diamond shapes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2 cups
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1730.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 73.9g114%
- Saturated Fat 7.0g35%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 5.8mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 259.7g87%
- Dietary Fiber 9.2g37%
- Sugars 243.8g
- Protein 17.7g36%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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