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Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Dissolve the yeast in the warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar.

Allow it to stand for 5–10 minutes, until foamy.

In a large bowl, combine:

• Flour
• Salt

Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add:

• Yeast mixture
• Remaining sugar
• Egg yolks
• Whole egg
• Vanilla
• Lemon zest

Mix until a smooth dough forms.

Knead for 8–10 minutes.

Divide the dough into four equal portions.

Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.

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Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Combine:

• Ground walnuts
• Sugar
• Vanilla
• Lemon zest

Mix well.

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Step 3: Assemble the Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease the baking pan.

Roll one dough portion to fit the pan.

Place it into the pan.

Spread one-third of the apricot jam evenly over the dough.

Sprinkle one-third of the walnut mixture over the jam.

Repeat with the remaining dough layers, jam, and walnuts.

Finish with the final dough layer.

Prick the top with a fork.

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Step 4: Bake

Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the pastry is lightly golden.

Cool completely in the pan.

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Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Glaze

Heat the heavy cream until steaming.

Pour over the chopped chocolate.

Add the butter.

Stir until smooth and glossy.

Spread evenly over the cooled cake.

Allow the glaze to set completely before slicing.

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Recipe Variations

Orange Zserbó

Replace the lemon zest with fresh orange zest.

Chocolate Walnut

Mix finely chopped dark chocolate into the walnut filling.

Hazelnut Version

Replace half of the walnuts with toasted hazelnuts.

Spiced Holiday Zserbó

Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon and a pinch of cloves to the walnut mixture.

Mini Zserbó Bars

Bake in a smaller pan and cut into bite-sized squares for holiday cookie trays.