Chestnuts, flavours of autumn

Among the fruits that best represent autumn, chestnuts occupy a place of honor. This extraordinary food not only enriches the woods with its presence, but also offers a wide range of culinary possibilities, encouraging everyone to rediscover its flavor unmistakable. In Italy, the chestnut season is celebrated through numerous festivals that take place in different regions, keeping alive the tradition of collecting them and involving entire families in this activity.

Chestnuts, the fruit of the chestnut tree (Castanea sativa), have been an essential food for many cultures for centuries, especially in Europe. They are nutritious, rich in carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are also relatively low in calories and naturally gluten-free, making them an ideal choice for those following specific diets.

How can they be prepared?

Chestnuts can be prepared in many ways: from the classic cooking on the grill, accompanied by an incision in the peel, to the refined marron glacés, candied chestnuts immersed in sugar syrup and then dried. Other delicious dishes include the chestnut puree, perfect to accompany roast meats, and the chestnut soup, creamy and enveloping, blended with vegetable broth. But we can't forget the beloved chestnut cake.

Recipe

One of the most popular desserts made with this autumn fruit is definitely the chestnut cake. Characterized by an enveloping aroma and an intense flavor, this cake is perfect for different occasions. Here are the ingredients needed to prepare this delicious dessert:

– 300 g of chestnut flour

- 100 g of sugar

- 4 eggs

– 80 g of melted butter

– 200 ml of milk

– 1 sachet of baking powder

- 1 pinch of salt

– icing sugar (for decoration).

Method

Start by beating the eggs in a bowl with the sugar until the mixture is light and frothy. Then add the melted butter and milk and mix everything well. In another bowl, sift the chestnut flour, yeast and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture and mix until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. Pour the mixture into a greased and floured cake pan and bake in a preheated oven at 180° for about 30-35 minutes. Once the cake is cooked, let it cool. Before serving, you can sprinkle it with powdered sugar to give it a finishing touch. Chestnut cake is a great way to celebrate the autumn season and enjoy a traditional Italian dessert. Whether it's a family snack or a dessert for a dinner with friends, it will amaze and conquer all palates.