Ingredients
Walnut Base
- 3 cups (340g) fine walnut crumbs (pulse raw walnut halves in a food processor until fine crumbs)
Egg Mixture
- 4 large eggs (whites and yolks separated)
Sugar
- 1 cup (198g) granulated white sugar, divided (½ cup for yolks, ½ cup for egg whites)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch round springform pan and line the bottom and sides with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Process Walnuts: Pulse the walnuts in a food processor until they are very small crumbs or coarse flour but be cautious not to over-process, as this can release oils and turn the walnuts into butter. If you don’t have a food scale, measure 3 cups of finely ground walnuts.
- Mix Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg yolks and ½ cup (98g) sugar. Whisk until the sugar is fully incorporated. Fold in the walnut crumbs gently until fully combined; the mixture will be thick.
- Beat Egg Whites: Using a stand mixer with a wire whisk attachment, beat the egg whites at medium speed until foamy, about 1 to 2 minutes. Gradually add the remaining ½ cup sugar while continuing to beat, then increase the speed and beat until thick, glossy, and medium peaks form, roughly 3 to 5 minutes.
- Fold Egg Whites into Walnut Mixture: Carefully fold one-third of the whipped egg whites into the walnut mixture using a spatula. Repeat with the next two thirds, being gentle to maintain the airy texture. The batter should appear light and fluffy.
- Bake the Cake: Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The top should be lightly firm and form a thin, crispy meringue layer.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Run a spatula around the edges to loosen, then remove and transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar, top with fresh fruit, chopped walnuts, or caramel sauce before serving.
Notes
- Use a food processor instead of a blender to prevent over-processing the walnuts.
- Be careful not to deflate the whipped egg whites when folding them into the walnut mixture.
- The cake features a thin crispy meringue crust and a moist interior.
- You can top the cake with powdered sugar, fruit, caramel sauce, or chopped walnuts for added flavor and presentation.
- If adding frosting, leveling the top of the cake first is recommended.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free