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Moravian Hickory Nut Cake

Moravian Hickory Nut Cake recipe image
This Moravian Hickory Nut Cake is a rustic, old-fashioned dessert that celebrates the deep, earthy flavor of hickory nuts. The batter is enriched with a generous amount of butter and eggs, beaten slowly to create a dense, moist crumb that holds up well to the heavy nut content. A splash of brandy adds warmth and complexity, enhancing the natural sweetness of the sugar without overpowering the nuts. Ideal for holiday gatherings or autumn afternoons, this cake pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. It is best enjoyed slightly warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors of the toasted nuts and spirit to meld together.
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 12
Calories: 1248.7
Dietary: Vegetarian
Description
This Moravian Hickory Nut Cake is a rustic, old-fashioned dessert that celebrates the deep, earthy flavor of hickory nuts. The batter is enriched with a generous amount of butter and eggs, beaten slowly to create a dense, moist crumb that holds up well to the heavy nut content. A splash of brandy adds warmth and complexity, enhancing the natural sweetness of the sugar without overpowering the nuts. Ideal for holiday gatherings or autumn afternoons, this cake pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. It is best enjoyed slightly warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors of the toasted nuts and spirit to meld together.
Ingredients
  • 1 lb Sugar
  • 2 cups Butter, softened
  • 8 ea Eggs
  • 2 cups Flour
  • 1 pint Hickory nuts, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Brandy
Directions
  1. 1
    Preheat oven to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC). Grease a deep baking dish or loaf pan thoroughly with butter.
  2. 2
    In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is very light and fluffy.
  3. 3
    Add one egg to the mixture and beat vigorously for at least 5 minutes until fully incorporated and pale.
  4. 4
    Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour over the mixture and fold it in gently.
  5. 5
    Repeat this process, adding one egg at a time and beating for 5 minutes, followed by 1 tablespoon of flour, until all 8 eggs and all but 2 tablespoons of flour are used.
  6. 6
    Fold in the remaining flour and the finely chopped hickory nuts until evenly distributed.
  7. 7
    Stir in the brandy just until combined.
  8. 8
    Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Place the dish on a rack in the lower third of the oven.
  9. 9
    Bake for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and dry.
  10. 10
    Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12

Amount Per Serving
Calories 1248.7kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 88.7g137%
Saturated Fat 52.8g264%
Cholesterol 875.0mg292%
Sodium 654.3mg28%
Total Carbohydrate 83.6g28%
Dietary Fiber 48.2g193%
Sugars 4.7g
Protein 51.3g103%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Hickory nuts can be difficult to find in some regions; pecans or walnuts can be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile will differ.

Ensure eggs are at room temperature before mixing to prevent the batter from curdling when added to the butter.

The long beating time for each egg is crucial for achieving the traditional dense yet tender texture of this cake. Do not rush this step.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The brandy helps preserve moisture.

Keywords: moravian, hickory nut, cake, brandy, traditional, nut cake, dessert, baking, rich, moist, christmas, holiday, german, central european, rustic, spice, nutty, alcohol, classic, homemade
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/moravian-hickory-nut-cake/