Best Moist Coffee Walnut Cake That’ll Wow Every Guest (Easy 10-Step Guide)

If you’re a fan of rich, nutty flavors and the comforting aroma of coffee, you’re in for a treat! This Coffee Walnut Cake combines the deep taste of brewed coffee with the crunch of walnuts, all wrapped up in a moist, tender crumb. Topped with a luscious coffee buttercream frosting, it’s the perfect centerpiece for any gathering or a delightful afternoon indulgence.

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Overview of Coffee Walnut Cake

This classic Coffee Walnut Cake is a beloved favorite, especially in British baking traditions. It’s often enjoyed during afternoon tea or as a special dessert for celebrations. The combination of coffee and walnuts creates a harmonious blend of flavors that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Cake:

• Rich Flavor: The brewed coffee infuses the cake with a deep, aromatic flavor that coffee lovers will adore.
• Crunchy Texture: Chopped walnuts add a delightful crunch to every bite.
• Moist Crumb: The combination of butter, milk, and coffee ensures a tender and moist cake.
• Versatile: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply as a treat with your afternoon tea or coffee.

Taste Profile:

Imagine a soft, buttery cake with the boldness of coffee and the earthy crunch of walnuts, all complemented by a smooth, sweet coffee-infused buttercream. It’s a harmonious blend that’s both satisfying and sophisticated.

Health/Nutritional Benefits:

While this cake is a treat, walnuts are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants. Enjoying a slice can be part of a balanced diet when savored in moderation.

Ingredients:

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For the Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled to room temperature)
• 1/2 cup whole milk (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

For the Coffee Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled to room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Tools Needed:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• 9-inch round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack
• Spatula

Suggested Substitutions and Additions:

• Flour: Substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Milk: Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
• Walnuts: Swap with pecans or hazelnuts if preferred.
• Coffee: Espresso or instant coffee can be used for a stronger flavor.

How to Make Coffee Walnut Cake

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Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, mix the brewed coffee and milk. Alternately add the dry ingredients and the coffee-milk mixture to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 6: Fold in Walnuts

Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the brewed coffee and vanilla extract, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Garnish with additional chopped walnuts if desired.

What to Serve with Coffee Walnut Cake

• Beverages: Pair with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, espresso, or black tea.
• Sides: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Fruit: Fresh berries or a fruit compote can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.

Tips for Making It Perfect

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• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to avoid a dense cake.
• Cool Completely: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Refrigerate for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: Wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.

General Information

Coffee and walnut cake is a classic British dessert, often enjoyed during afternoon tea. Its origins date back to at least the early 20th century, and it remains a popular choice for its rich flavor and satisfying texture. The combination of coffee and walnuts creates a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to maintain the cake’s structure.

Q: Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?

A: Absolutely! Dissolve 1-2 teaspoons of instant coffee granules in 1/2 cup of hot water and allow it to cool before using.

Q: Can I make cupcakes with this recipe?

A: Yes, this recipe can yield approximately 12-16 cupcakes. Adjust the baking time to 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Q: How can I make the cake more moist?

A: Ensure not to overbake the cake. Additionally, you can brush the cake layers with a simple syrup infused with coffee before frosting to add extra moisture.

Conclusion

This Coffee Walnut Cake is a delightful blend of rich coffee flavor and crunchy walnuts, topped with a smooth buttercream frosting. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like our Chocolate Walnut Cake or Espresso Almond Cake.

Happy baking!

Interactive Elements

We’d love to see your creations! Share a photo of your Coffee Walnut Cake on Pinterest and tag us at https://www.pinterest.com/poulefrecipe/. Leave a comment below to let us know how it turned out!

Nutritional Information Coffee Walnut Cake

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450
Total Fat	25g
Saturated Fat	12g
Cholesterol	80mg
Sodium	200mg
Total Carbohydrates	50g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	30g
Protein	5g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

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