Name: Heavenly Coffee and Walnut Cake for Pure Indulgence
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 225 g All-purpose flour (Can be substituted with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.); 200 g Granulated sugar (Using light brown sugar lends a deeper flavor.); 100 g Chopped walnuts (Pecans can replace walnuts for a twist.); 200 g Unsalted butter, softened (Opt for dairy-free butter for a vegan alternative.); 4 large Eggs (Flax eggs can replace them for a vegan version.); 2 tbsp Instant coffee granules (Gives that bold coffee flavor.); 200 ml Boiling water (Helps to dissolve the coffee granules perfectly.); 2 tsp Baking powder (Ensure it's fresh for optimal results.); 1 pinch Salt (Enhances all the flavors in your cake.); 1 tsp Vanilla extract (Use pure extract for superior flavor.); 150 ml Whole milk (Non-dairy milk can be swapped for a lactose-free option.); 100 g Unsalted butter (Same rich role as in the cake.); 300 g Powdered sugar (Sweetens and thickens the frosting.); 60 ml Brewed coffee (Infuses additional flavor into the frosting.); 50 g Chopped walnuts (Optional, yet highly recommended for garnish.)

The aroma wafting through my kitchen transports me straight to a quaint café where the rich scent of coffee mingles with the tantalizing crunch of walnuts. Today, I’m thrilled to share my Ultimate Coffee and Walnut Cake recipe, an effortless way to bring that cozy treat home. This well-loved cake strikes just the right balance between moist and fluffy, making it a perfect companion for your afternoon tea or post-dinner dessert. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a delightful masterpiece that will impress your friends and family without tying yourself to the kitchen for hours. Have you ever thought about combining coffee and cake in one slice? Let’s dive into this delightful creation!

Why is Coffee and Walnut Cake So Irresistible?

Indulgent Flavor Combination: There’s something magical about the harmonious blend of coffee and walnuts that creates a symphony of taste in every bite. Effortless Preparation: In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this easy recipe without fussing over complicated techniques. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual gathering or a special celebration, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for more. Moist and Fluffy Texture: Enjoy a cake that delivers a tender crumb paired with the delightful crunch of walnuts, making it utterly satisfying. Pairing Possibilities: Serve it alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a cozy experience, or check out our delightful Moist Chantilly Cake for another treat. Trust me, once you’ve tried this cake, you’ll never view dessert the same way again!

Coffee and Walnut Cake Ingredients

• Discover the essential components for this delightful treat!

For the Cake

All-purpose flour – Provides structure and a light texture; can be substituted with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
Granulated sugar – Adds the perfect sweetness; using light brown sugar lends a deeper flavor.
Chopped walnuts – Infuses a delightful nuttiness and crunch; pecans can replace walnuts for a twist.
Unsalted butter, softened – Brings richness and moisture; opt for dairy-free butter for a vegan alternative.
Eggs – Essential for binding and aeration; flax eggs can replace them for a vegan version.
Instant coffee granules – Gives that bold coffee flavor; brewed coffee works too, but adjust liquid accordingly.
Boiling water – This helps to dissolve the coffee granules perfectly.
Baking powder – A leavening agent that helps achieve a light texture; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
Salt – Enhances all the flavors in your cake wonderfully.
Vanilla extract – Adds aromatic depth; use pure extract for superior flavor.
Whole milk – Provides necessary moisture and fat; non-dairy milk can be swapped for a lactose-free option.

For the Frosting

Unsalted butter (frosting) – Same rich role as in the cake; make substitutions as necessary.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; no need for substitutes here!
Brewed coffee – Infuses additional flavor into the frosting; you can omit it for a vanilla frosting.
Chopped walnuts (garnish) – Optional, yet highly recommended for a lovely finishing touch.

Enjoy crafting your Coffee and Walnut Cake!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Coffee and Walnut Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). While it heats up, prepare two 8-inch round cake pans by greasing them with butter and lining the bottoms with parchment paper. This ensures your Coffee and Walnut Cake releases easily and maintains its perfect shape once baked.

Step 2: Prepare the Coffee Mixture
In a small bowl, dissolve instant coffee granules in 200ml of boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved, then set the mixture aside to cool as you move on to the next steps. This rich coffee infusion will give your cake its distinct flavor and aroma, making it a delightful treat.

Step 3: Sift the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together 225g of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures that your Coffee and Walnut Cake will rise evenly and achieve that light, fluffy texture we all love. Set the bowl aside for later use.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, beat 200g of softened unsalted butter and 200g of granulated sugar together using an electric mixer. Mix on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 4-5 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air, leading to a beautifully textured cake.

Step 5: Add the Eggs
Next, crack in 4 large eggs, adding them one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture. After each addition, mix well until fully incorporated. This process helps to create a stable batter that supports the delicious structure of your Coffee and Walnut Cake, ensuring it will rise perfectly in the oven.

Step 6: Combine Wet Ingredients
Pour the cooled coffee mixture and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the egg mixture. Stir gently to combine, allowing the rich coffee flavor to infuse throughout the mixture. This delightful blend elevates the taste of your cake and enhances the overall flavor profile that coffee lovers will adore.

Step 7: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with 150ml of whole milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks remaining is perfect for achieving that moist and tender Coffee and Walnut Cake.

Step 8: Fold in the Walnuts
Once your batter is smooth, gently fold in 100g of chopped walnuts using a spatula. This will add delightful crunch and flavor to your cake. Make sure the walnuts are evenly distributed throughout the batter to ensure every slice gets that delicious nutty surprise.

Step 9: Pour and Level the Batter
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops, ensuring each layer is level for easy stacking once baked. The anticipation of a perfect Coffee and Walnut Cake will be worth the effort spent on these steps!

Step 10: Bake the Cake
Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cakes; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them towards the end for that beautiful golden-brown color.

Step 11: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 20 minutes. After this, carefully transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential to prevent melting when you frost your Coffee and Walnut Cake.

Step 12: Prepare the Frosting
While the cakes cool, it’s time to prepare the frosting. In a bowl, beat 100g of softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add 300g of powdered sugar, mixing well, then blend in 60ml of brewed coffee. Keep mixing until the frosting is smooth and spreadable, ready to complement your cake.

Step 13: Frost the Cooled Cakes
Once the layers have completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and evenly spread frosting over the top. Add the second layer on top, applying frosting to the sides and the top of the cake as well. The luscious frosting will beautifully enhance the flavor of your Coffee and Walnut Cake.

Step 14: Garnish and Serve
If desired, sprinkle additional chopped walnuts on top of the frosted cake for a decorative touch. Your stunning Coffee and Walnut Cake is now ready to be cut and enjoyed. Serve it with a comforting cup of coffee or tea for a delightful experience that invites warmth and joy.

Make Ahead Options

These Coffee and Walnut Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks who need to streamline their meal planning! You can bake the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and storing at room temperature. This helps maintain their moisture and airy texture! Additionally, you can prepare the frosting 3 days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, allow the frosting to come to room temperature, then frost the cake layers for a freshly assembled dessert that’s just as delectable as if made the same day. Enjoy the time-saving advantages of this delightful Coffee and Walnut Cake!

What to Serve with Ultimate Coffee and Walnut Cake

Delight in creating a complete culinary experience that beautifully complements the rich flavors of this classic cake.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes adds a comforting element to your meal, balancing the rich cake perfectly.
Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette brings brightness and refreshment, making a lovely contrast to the sweet cake.
Buttercream Frosted Cupcakes: Create a delightful dessert duo by serving mini cupcakes alongside your coffee and walnut creation, appealing to all sweet tooths.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal veggies adds depth and earthy flavors to your table, harmonizing with the cake’s nutty richness.
Chai Latte: The warm spices of a chai latte beautifully complement the coffee notes in your cake, offering a delightful pairing for tea enthusiasts.
Dark Chocolate Tart: Indulge in a rich chocolate tart to serve alongside; the deep flavors and textures create a luxurious balance with your cake.
Cheese Platter: A savory selection of cheeses paired with fruits provides a lovely contrast to your sweet cake while appealing to different palates.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside the cake offers a deliciously cold contrast to the warm, rich sweetness of the coffee walnut layers.
Sparkling Water: Stay refreshed with a glass of sparkling water, a delightful palate cleanser that complements the cake’s richness without overpowering it.

Expert Tips for Coffee and Walnut Cake

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for easy mixing, creating a fluffier cake texture.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined to prevent a dense cake. A few flour streaks remaining are perfectly fine.
Cooling Time: Allow the cakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting to avoid melting your frosting and compromising the design.
Leveling Cakes: Use a serrated knife to trim the tops of your cake layers, making them level. This ensures better stacking and presentation for your Coffee and Walnut Cake.
Fresh Ingredients: Check the freshness of your baking powder to guarantee the cake rises well and achieves that light, fluffy texture everyone loves.

Coffee and Walnut Cake Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with this delightful cake! Your taste buds will thank you for every twist you make.

Nut Swap: Replace walnuts with pecans or hazelnuts for a completely new flavor dimension. Each nut offers its unique character, giving your cake a personal touch.
Mocha Twist: Add 100g of chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful mocha experience. The rich chocolate will complement the coffee flavor beautifully, creating a dreamy combination.
Almond Flavor: Swap out vanilla extract for almond extract to transform the flavor profile into something uniquely aromatic and delicious. Its sweet notes harmonize wonderfully with coffee.
Coconut Delight: Mix in 50g of shredded coconut for a tropical twist. The coconut adds moisture and a pleasant chewiness, making each bite an adventure.
Spice Infusion: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor incredibly. Just a hint will add a warm, cozy feel, perfect for those chilly afternoons.
Dairy-Free: Use non-dairy milk and vegan butter to make this recipe entirely plant-based without sacrificing flavor. Everyone can enjoy a slice of this indulgence.
Fruity Addition: Fold in a cup of chopped dates or figs for a naturally sweet addition. Their flavor pairs seamlessly with coffee, enhancing the overall richness of the cake.
Layer It Up: Create a layered cake experience by adding a layer of coffee jelly or frosting between the cake layers. It brings a delightful surprise and adds elegance to your presentation.

For even more delightful desserts to enjoy alongside your Coffee and Walnut Cake, be sure to check out our fabulous Coffee Cheesecake or the vibrant Ube Mochi Cake. Enjoy your baking adventures!

How to Store and Freeze Coffee and Walnut Cake

Room Temperature: Store your Coffee and Walnut Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and freshness.

Fridge: If you prefer longer storage, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Wrap it well to prevent it from drying out and absorbing other odors.

Freezer: For freezing, wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: To reheat, let the slices come to room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy your cake at its best!

Coffee and Walnut Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right walnuts for my cake?
Absolutely! Look for fresh walnuts that are plump and have a light brown color. Avoid any with dark spots or a rancid smell, as this indicates they may be past their prime. Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain their freshness.

How should I store my Coffee and Walnut Cake to keep it fresh?
I recommend placing your Coffee and Walnut Cake in an airtight container at room temperature, where it will stay delightful for up to 3 days. If you need it to last longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days to prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze my Coffee and Walnut Cake? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cake (either whole or in slices) tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost in the refrigerator overnight. Trust me, it will taste just as fresh as the day you baked it!

What can I do if my cake turns out too dry?
Oh no! If your Coffee and Walnut Cake is on the dry side, it might be due to overbaking or not enough fat or moisture in the recipe. Make sure to monitor baking times closely and check for doneness with a toothpick a few minutes early. You can also brush the layers lightly with a coffee syrup (just mix equal parts brewed coffee and sugar until dissolved) before frosting them to add moisture back in.

Can I make this cake dairy-free or vegan?
Yes, you certainly can! For a dairy-free version, substitute unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative, and use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk. For a vegan variation, replace the eggs with flax eggs—simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg and let it sit until it thickens. Enjoy your delicious Coffee and Walnut Cake with these alternatives!

Are there any allergies I should consider with this recipe?
Very! Since this recipe includes eggs and walnuts, it’s essential to inform guests of these allergens. If you’re baking for someone with a nut allergy, you could substitute the walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely for a nut-free option. Always best to check before you bake!