If you’re looking to elevate your Sunday with a delicious homemade treat, look no further than the classic Coffee and Walnut Cake. This beloved British staple combines the rich flavors of coffee and the nutty crunch of walnuts into a moist, decadent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a slice with a cup of tea, this cake promises to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 225g unsalted butter, softened
- 225g caster sugar
- 200g plain flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp instant espresso powder
- 2½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda
- 1-2 tbsp milk
- 50g walnut pieces, chopped
Step-By-Step Instructions:
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C Fan/Gas Mark 4). Grease and line two 20cm (8-inch) sandwich tins with baking parchment.
- Blend the Cake Batter: In a food processor, blitz together walnut pieces and caster sugar until finely ground. Add softened butter, plain flour, instant espresso powder, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, and eggs. Process until the mixture forms a smooth batter.
- Adjust Consistency: While the processor is running, add milk gradually until the batter reaches a soft dropping consistency. If mixing by hand, combine dry ingredients and chopped walnuts, then alternate adding them with beaten eggs and milk into the butter and sugar.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake tins. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the sponges are risen and springy to the touch.
- Cool and Prepare Buttercream: Allow the cakes to cool in their tins for 10 minutes, then transfer them onto a wire rack. While they cool, prepare the coffee buttercream. Pulse icing sugar in the food processor until smooth, then add softened butter and dissolved instant espresso. Process until you have a creamy frosting.
- Assemble: Place one sponge upside down on your serving plate. Spread half of the buttercream on top. Add the second sponge, right side up, and cover the top with the remaining buttercream, swirling it in a rustic pattern.
- Decorate: Arrange walnut halves around the edge of the cake for an added visual and textural appeal.
Directions:
- Preparation Time: Approximately 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: Around 25 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour (including cooling and frosting)
Nutrition Facts: (Per Serving)
- Calories: 490 kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Sugar: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
Reviews:
- Users rave about the cake’s light texture and balanced sweetness, praising its ease of preparation and delicious coffee flavor.
Community Tips and Praise:
- Many bakers recommend using high-quality instant coffee for a richer taste. Some suggest adjusting sugar levels in the frosting to personal preference.
This Coffee and Walnut Cake recipe not only satisfies cravings for a classic British dessert but also provides a delightful baking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at baking for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy a slice of nostalgia with each bite of this comforting cake!
