Coffee Walnut Cake


Introduction

Coffee Walnut Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, aromatic flavor of coffee with the earthy crunch of walnuts. The soft, moist cake layers are complemented by a creamy coffee-flavored frosting and topped with extra walnuts for a satisfying crunch. It’s a wonderful treat for afternoon tea, coffee breaks, or any occasion that calls for a sweet indulgence.


Ingredients (Quantities)

For the Cake:

  • All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups (180g)
  • Baking powder: 1 1/2 teaspoons
  • Baking soda: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
  • Ground coffee: 2 tablespoons (instant coffee or brewed espresso)
  • Hot water: 1/2 cup (120ml)
  • Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (115g), softened
  • Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup (150g)
  • Brown sugar: 1/2 cup (100g)
  • Eggs: 2 large
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
  • Buttermilk: 1/2 cup (120ml)
  • Chopped walnuts: 1 cup (120g), toasted

For the Coffee Buttercream Frosting:

  • Unsalted butter: 1 cup (230g), softened
  • Powdered sugar: 2 cups (240g)
  • Ground coffee: 1 tablespoon
  • Hot water: 2 tablespoons
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
  • Chopped walnuts: 1/4 cup (for decoration)

Optional Ingredients

  • Walnut halves: For garnish on top of the cake
  • Coffee liqueur: 1 tablespoon (optional, for added flavor in the cake or frosting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the coffee:
    • In a small bowl, dissolve the ground coffee in 1/2 cup of hot water. Stir until the coffee is fully dissolved. Set aside to cool.
  3. Make the cake batter:
    • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
    • In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy.
    • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk and brewed coffee. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
    • Fold in the chopped walnuts, being careful not to overmix.
  4. Bake the cake:
    • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
    • 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 before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  5. Prepare the frosting:
    • In a small bowl, dissolve the ground coffee in 2 tablespoons of hot water. Allow the coffee to cool to room temperature.
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
    • Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1/4 cup at a time, until fully incorporated.
    • Stir in the coffee mixture and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with more powdered sugar if the frosting is too thin.
  6. Assemble the cake:
    • Once the cakes have cooled, spread a layer of coffee buttercream on top of the first cake layer.
    • Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining buttercream.
    • Decorate the top of the cake with chopped walnuts and optional walnut halves for a decorative touch.
  7. Chill and Serve:
    • Chill the cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set before slicing.
    • Serve and enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or tea!

Tips for Success

  • Toast the walnuts for extra flavor. Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant, then chop them for the cake and frosting.
  • Make sure the cake is fully cooled before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting.
  • For a deeper coffee flavor, add coffee liqueur to the cake batter or frosting.

Recommendations

  • This Coffee Walnut Cake pairs beautifully with a strong cup of coffee or a creamy latte.
  • For a more decadent dessert, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

Nutrition Information (per slice, based on 12 servings)

  • Calories: 350
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Sugar: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g

This Coffee Walnut Cake is a delightful combination of rich coffee flavor and crunchy walnuts, all enveloped in a creamy, coffee-infused buttercream. It’s perfect for coffee lovers and makes a lovely addition to any occasion! ☕🍰

Leave a Comment