Imagine slicing into a golden-brown traybake, the rich aroma of coffee mingling with the sweet scent of caramel and the nutty crunch of hazelnuts. You can’t help but wonder how these flavors intertwine to create such a decadent treat. While its roots stretch back through European baking traditions, the preparation of this dessert is straightforward, yet it holds the potential to impress anyone who tastes it. As you consider making this indulgent dish, there are essential steps and tips that could elevate your baking experience. To begin your journey, gather quality ingredients that speak to the heart of this dessert, including finely ground coffee, fresh oranges, and a hint of nutmeg to enhance the flavors. The nutmeg orange coffee recipe comes to life as you blend these elements, creating a harmonious balance that tantalizes the taste buds. Every slice promises a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will have you reaching for seconds and sharing the joy with friends and family.
Key Takeaways
- The Coffee Caramel Hazelnut Traybake combines rich hazelnut flavors, caramel sweetness, and deep coffee notes for a delicious dessert experience.
- Key ingredients include finely chopped hazelnuts, flour, caramel sauce, ground coffee, eggs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Bake the mixture at 180°C (350°F) for 30-35 minutes until a skewer comes out clean for best results.
- Store the traybake in an airtight container at room temperature and consume within three days for optimal freshness.
- Enhance the dish by toasting hazelnuts, adjusting coffee in icing, or serving with ice cream or a chocolate drizzle.
History
As coffee became a beloved beverage in the 17th century, it sparked a wave of culinary creativity, leading to the delightful combination of coffee, caramel, and hazelnuts in desserts.
This trio gained popularity in the 19th century across Europe, especially in France and Italy, where coffee culture thrived. Hazelnuts, known for their rich flavor, enhanced sweet dishes, notably in Italian confections like gianduja.
Meanwhile, caramel, originating from the Middle Ages, added a luscious sweetness when made by boiling sugar. The rise of coffee prompted bakers to experiment with new flavor pairings, inspiring various coffee-infused pastries.
Today, the modern coffee caramel hazelnut traybake reflects this rich history, blending indulgent flavors that cater to contemporary dessert lovers.
Recipe
Coffee Caramel Hazelnut Traybake Recipe
Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors found in this Coffee Caramel Hazelnut Traybake. The rich, nutty taste of finely chopped hazelnuts complements the sweetness of caramel, while the hint of coffee adds a warm depth to the batter. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for entertaining guests at afternoon tea or enjoying a cozy gathering with friends and family.
To start, prepare your baking tin and gather all the ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Toasting the hazelnuts before adding them to the batter will enhance their flavor and provide a delightful crunch in each bite.
Once baked and topped with a creamy coffee-flavored icing, this traybake won't only satisfy your sweet cravings but also impress anyone who's the pleasure of tasting it.
Ingredients:
- 200g finely chopped hazelnuts
- 250g plain flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 100g caramel sauce
- 100g ground coffee (instant works well)
- 3 eggs
- 150g sugar
- 100g unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 150g icing sugar (for icing)
- 2 tbsp coffee (brewed)
- Chopped hazelnuts (for decoration)
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a rectangular baking tin with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped hazelnuts, flour, and baking powder. In another bowl, whisk together the caramel sauce, ground coffee, eggs, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until combined. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely before spreading the creamy coffee-flavored icing on top and sprinkling with chopped hazelnuts.
Extra Tips:
To achieve the best flavor, make sure to toast the hazelnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Additionally, you can adjust the amount of coffee in the icing based on your taste preference. If you wish to prepare the traybake ahead of time, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain its freshness. Remember, different brewing methods can lead to varying caffeine levels in coffee, enhancing your overall experience.
Enjoy your baking!
Cooking Steps
To get started on your Coffee Caramel Hazelnut Traybake, preheat your oven to 350°F.
Next, mix your dry ingredients thoroughly before folding in those deliciously chopped hazelnuts.
Once that's done, pour the batter into your prepared pan, and you're ready to bake!
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F
Preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) is essential for achieving the perfect coffee caramel hazelnut traybake. This temperature ensures even baking and an optimal texture for your treat.
To verify the temperature, consider using an oven thermometer, as accurate preheating is crucial for the cake's rise and doneness. Allow the oven to preheat for at least 15-20 minutes before placing your baking tin inside.
While you're waiting, position the wire rack in the center of the oven for consistent heat distribution.
Remember, avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking; this can lead to temperature fluctuations that may affect the final outcome of your delicious traybake.
Happy baking!
Step 2. Mix Dry Ingredients Thoroughly
With your oven now warmed up, it's time to focus on mixing the dry ingredients for your coffee caramel hazelnut traybake.
Start by measuring out your flour, a pinch of sea salt, and baking powder.
Next, use a food processor to blitz your hazelnuts until they're finely chopped. This not only improves their incorporation but also enhances that nutty flavor we love.
Combine all the dry ingredients in a large bowl, making sure everything is thoroughly blended. This step is crucial; you want the baking powder evenly distributed to ensure the traybake rises perfectly.
Once mixed, set the dry ingredients aside to keep them moisture-free until you're ready to combine them with the wet ingredients.
Step 3. Fold in Chopped Hazelnuts
Gently fold the chopped hazelnuts into your batter, taking care to maintain its light texture. Using toasted hazelnuts enhances the nutty flavor, so make sure you've prepared them beforehand.
Grab a spatula and use a gentle motion to fold in the nuts, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This technique helps keep your batter light and fluffy, preventing any overmixing that could lead to a denser cake.
For a richer hazelnut experience, consider mixing finely chopped and coarsely chopped hazelnuts. This way, every bite will feature a balanced burst of flavor. Additionally, incorporating low-acid coffee varieties into your recipe can help minimize the risk of heartburn for those sensitive to acidity.
Step 4. Pour Batter Into Prepared Pan
After incorporating the chopped hazelnuts, it's time to pour the batter into your prepared pan.
Make sure your baking tin is well-buttered and lined with baking parchment to prevent sticking.
Pour the cake batter into the center of the tin, and use a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges for uniform baking.
Gently tap the tin on the countertop to release any air bubbles that may have formed, ensuring an even texture.
Level the top of the batter with the spatula, as this helps guarantee an even rise during baking.
Now, you're ready for the next step, where you'll be placing it in the oven until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5. Bake for 25 Minutes
As you prepare to bake, preheat your oven to 180C (160C fan/gas 4), ensuring it reaches the right temperature for optimal results.
Place your traybake in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. This is a crucial time to check for doneness; insert a skewer into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
If the top looks golden but the center remains wet, loosely cover it with foil to prevent overbaking. Keep an eye on your traybake as oven temperatures can vary.
Once baked, let it cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring a perfect texture for slicing.
Final Thoughts
While you may be tempted to savor every bite of the coffee caramel hazelnut traybake, it's important to remember that this delightful treat is best enjoyed fresh. Aim to indulge within three days of baking to fully appreciate the rich flavors of hazelnuts and coffee, enhanced by the smooth caramel icing.
The incorporation of toasted hazelnuts adds a nuttier flavour, providing a delightful crunch and healthy fats. Don't forget to pair your traybake with a warm cup of coffee or tea; the flavors complement each other beautifully.
If you have dietary preferences, feel free to adapt the recipe with different nuts. With softened butter and icing sugar in the mix, this traybake is a true dessert lover's dream!
In the vast and diverse world of coffee, coffee alternatives, and tea, Olivia has found her calling. As an author and a dedicated coffee and tea aficionado, her work for Cappuccino Oracle reflects her profound love and understanding of the intricate complexities found within these beverages. Olivia’s passion for the subject serves as both a catalyst for her creativity and a connection point with her audience.
