Name: Coffee and Walnut Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 200 g unsalted butter (softened at room temperature); 200 g granulated sugar (for sweetness); 4 large eggs (room temperature); 200 g all-purpose flour (sifted); 1 tbsp baking powder (for leavening); 50 g walnuts (chopped); 2 tbsp instant coffee granules (dissolved in 2 tbsp hot water); 1 tsp vanilla extract (for flavor); 1/2 tsp salt (to enhance flavor); 100 g unsalted butter (softened at room temperature); 200 g powdered sugar (sifted); 2 tbsp instant coffee granules (dissolved in 1 tbsp hot water); 1 tbsp milk (to adjust consistency); 50 g walnuts (halved, for topping)

Imagine the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through your kitchen, mingling perfectly with the nutty essence of toasted walnuts. As you slice into a velvety piece of coffee and walnut cake, the buttery layers give way to a delightful crunch from the walnuts, all while a hint of sweetness lingers on your palate. It's a comforting treat that beckons for cozy afternoons or celebratory gatherings, making every bite feel like a warm hug.

Baking this cake is not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating moments that bring people together. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you’ll find that whipping up this delicious dessert is both rewarding and enjoyable. So grab your mixing bowl and join me in crafting this delightful masterpiece that’s sure to impress friends and family alike! Now, let’s dive into the specifics of making this irresistible coffee and walnut cake.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this coffee and walnut cake for its delightful balance of rich flavors and textures.
The ease of preparation makes it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.
Visually appealing with its beautiful layers and walnut decoration, it’s a showstopper for any occasion.
Plus, it's versatile enough to enjoy with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a sweet treat after dinner.

Now that you know what makes this cake special, let's dive into the ingredients you'll need to create this delicious masterpiece.

As I pulled the coffee and walnut cake from the oven, the rich aroma filled the kitchen. My family's delighted smiles as they took their first bites reminded me why this recipe holds a special place in our hearts.

Essential Ingredients

To create a delicious coffee and walnut cake, gather the following essential ingredients.

200 g unsalted butter: Ensure the butter is softened at room temperature for easy creaming with sugar to achieve a light and fluffy texture.

200 g granulated sugar: This will provide the necessary sweetness and help to aerate the butter during mixing.

4 large eggs: Use eggs at room temperature for easier incorporation into the batter, contributing to a moist and rich cake.

200 g all-purpose flour: Sifted flour is crucial for removing lumps and ensuring a light crumb structure in your cake.

1 tablespoon baking powder: This leavening agent helps the cake rise properly, giving it a soft and airy texture.

50 g walnuts: Chop these nuts finely to distribute their flavor throughout the cake while adding a delightful crunch.

2 tablespoon instant coffee granules: Dissolve in hot water before adding to enhance the coffee flavor in your cake effectively.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds depth to the flavor profile, balancing the richness of the cake.

½ teaspoon salt: Salt enhances all flavors present in the cake, making each bite more enjoyable.

100 g unsalted butter (for frosting): Like for the cake, ensure this is softened for easy mixing into a creamy frosting.

200 g powdered sugar: Sifted for smoothness, this will give your frosting a sweet finish without any graininess.

2 tablespoon instant coffee granules (for frosting): Dissolved in hot water, these will infuse your frosting with rich coffee notes that complement the cake beautifully.

1 tablespoon milk: Use this to adjust the consistency of your frosting; add more if needed for a smoother spread.

50 g walnuts (for decoration): Halved walnuts provide an appealing visual element on top of your finished cake while echoing its flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let's Make It Together

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare:

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). As the oven warms, take two 9-inch round cake pans and grease them well, lining them with parchment paper to ensure your beautiful coffee and walnut cake releases easily once baked. The anticipation builds as you prepare for the delightful aromas that will soon fill your kitchen!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar:

In a large mixing bowl, combine 200 g of softened unsalted butter and 200 g of granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, cream these together until light and fluffy—this should take about 4-5 minutes. You’ll notice the mixture turning pale, indicating that air has been incorporated, which is essential for a fluffy cake. A personal tip: make sure your butter is truly at room temperature for the best texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs One by One:

Now it’s time to add in the four large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will create a rich and moist base for your cake. After adding all the eggs, take a moment to enjoy that creamy texture!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, whisk together 200 g of sifted all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined—overmixing can lead to a dense texture that we want to avoid. You’ll see the batter coming together beautifully!

Step 5: Fold in Walnuts and Coffee:

Now for the magic touch! Gently fold in 50 g of chopped walnuts and the previously dissolved coffee mixture into your batter using a spatula. The rich aroma of coffee will start to waft through your kitchen as you mix—it’s heavenly! Make sure everything is well combined without overmixing; you want those lovely walnut chunks throughout.

Step 6: Bake Your Cakes:

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared cake pans and smooth out the tops with a spatula. Place them in your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them—the cakes should rise beautifully and turn a lovely golden brown! Once baked, let them cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

With our cakes now cooling down perfectly, let’s move on to creating that delicious frosting!

You Must Know

When creaming the butter and sugar, aim for a light and fluffy texture; this step is crucial as it incorporates air, resulting in a beautifully risen coffee and walnut cake.
I've learned that patience here pays off with a superior crumb.
Be cautious when folding in the walnuts and coffee mixture; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
I always remind myself that gentle handling preserves the airy texture we crave in baked goods.
Allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the icing from melting.
Trust me, this step transformed my frosting game—smooth layers make for a stunning presentation!

These expert tips will ensure your coffee and walnut cake turns out perfectly every time, setting you up for success as we dive into the baking process next.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to personalize your coffee and walnut cake by experimenting with different ingredients! Swap out the walnuts for pecans or hazelnuts for a unique twist. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter. If you love chocolate, fold in some dark chocolate chips along with the walnuts. Don’t hesitate to adjust the coffee strength in the frosting to suit your taste buds. Be creative and confident as you make this recipe your own! Now, let’s delve into how to perfectly assemble your cake.

Storing & Serving

To keep your coffee and walnut cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. Serve the cake at room temperature for the best flavor, and consider pairing it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee to enhance the delightful nutty and coffee notes. This combination elevates the experience beautifully.

Chef's Helpful Tips

1. To achieve a lighter texture in your coffee and walnut cake, ensure that your butter is softened properly before creaming it with sugar. If it's too hard, the mixture won't incorporate enough air, leading to a denser cake.
When folding in the chopped walnuts and dissolved coffee mixture, use gentle motions to avoid deflating the batter. This helps maintain the airy quality of the cake while ensuring an even distribution of flavor and texture.
For a more robust coffee flavor, allow the instant coffee granules to dissolve fully in hot water before adding them to the batter. This step enhances the overall taste of your coffee and walnut cake, making it truly irresistible.

With these tips in hand, you're well on your way to crafting a delicious coffee and walnut cake that will impress everyone!

Baking this coffee and walnut cake brings back fond memories of family gatherings, where every slice sparked laughter and joy, reminding me that the simplest recipes often create the most cherished moments. As I enjoyed each bite, warmth and satisfaction enveloped me, a delightful reminder of home.

How to Know It’s Done Perfectly

To ensure your coffee and walnut cake is done perfectly, look for a golden-brown top, and when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should feel springy to the touch and have a rich aroma of coffee and nuts. Remember, slight variations in color or texture are normal, so trust your instincts! Now that you’re confident in your baking success, let’s move on to making the luscious frosting.

FAQ

What is coffee and walnut cake made of?

Coffee and walnut cake is made with key ingredients including unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, all-purpose flour, baking powder, walnuts, instant coffee granules, vanilla extract, and salt. The frosting features additional unsalted butter, powdered sugar, instant coffee, and milk for a creamy finish.

How do I ensure my coffee and walnut cake is fluffy?

To achieve a fluffy texture in your coffee and walnut cake, it’s crucial to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy before adding the eggs. Additionally, mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture on low speed to avoid overmixing.

Can I make coffee and walnut cake in advance?

Yes, you can make coffee and walnut cake in advance. Bake the cake layers ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate them for longer freshness. Frosting can also be prepared ahead of time; simply store it in the fridge until you're ready to use it.

What can I substitute for walnuts in this coffee and walnut cake recipe?

If you're looking to substitute walnuts in your coffee and walnut cake, consider using pecans or hazelnuts for a similar nutty flavor. However, keep in mind that this will slightly alter the taste profile of the cake.

How should I store leftover coffee and walnut cake?

Leftover coffee and walnut cake should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for about a week. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months.

With these answers to your questions about coffee and walnut cake, you’re well-equipped to bake this delightful dessert! Next, let’s explore some serving suggestions that will complement its rich flavors beautifully.