Best Coffee Walnut Cake Recipe – Moist, Rich, and Easy

Coffee Walnut Cake – There’s something irresistibly comforting about a perfectly baked Coffee Walnut Cake, especially for those who appreciate the deep aroma of coffee paired with the mild crunch of toasted walnuts. This classic cake has long been a favorite for afternoon tea, weekend gatherings, and celebratory brunches.

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It carries the perfect balance of rich coffee flavor, buttery softness, and nutty texture. Whether you prefer it as a layered treat with silky coffee buttercream or enjoy it plain with a dusting of sugar, this cake never disappoints.

Recipe Overview

Keyword Used Once: Coffee Walnut Cake

• Cuisines: British, European

• Course: Dessert / Tea-Time Cake

• Servings: 10–12 slices

• Calories: Approx. 420 per slice

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Active Time: 15 minutes

• Resting Time: 20 minutes cooling

• Total Time: 55 minutes

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls (2–3)

• Electric mixer or hand whisk

• Spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• 8-inch round cake pans (2)

• Baking parchment

• Cooling rack

• Small saucepan (to dissolve coffee)

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour

• 2 tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp salt

• ¼ cup strong brewed coffee, cooled

• ½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Coffee Buttercream:

• 1 cup (230g) butter, softened

• 2 ½ cups (300g) powdered sugar

• 2 tbsp strong brewed coffee

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ cup finely chopped walnuts (optional for filling)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides. This prevents sticking and ensures the sponges rise evenly and cleanly release from the tins.

2. Beat the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the batter, giving your cake a soft and airy texture.

3. Add Eggs One at a Time

Add the eggs individually, beating well after each addition. This prevents the mixture from curdling and helps maintain smooth consistency. If the batter looks slightly split, add a tablespoon of flour and continue mixing.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula to avoid overmixing.

5. Add Coffee and Walnuts

Pour in the cooled brewed coffee and vanilla extract, mixing just until combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts to add both texture and nutty flavor.

6. Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Tap them gently on the counter to release air bubbles.
Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched and a toothpick comes out clean.

7. Cool Completely

Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer them to a cooling rack and let them rest for another 20 minutes before frosting.

Nutrition (Per Slice)

Tips for the Perfect Coffee Walnut Cake

• Use freshly brewed strong coffee for the richest flavor.

• Don’t overmix the batter once the flour is added; it can make the cake dense.

• Toast the walnuts briefly for enhanced aroma and crunch.

• For alcohol lovers, add 1 teaspoon of coffee liqueur to the frosting.

• For less sweetness, reduce the powdered sugar in the frosting slightly.

Conclusion

The Coffee Walnut Cake is a timeless treat that blends bold coffee flavor with the comforting crunch of walnuts. Its moist texture, rich aroma, and delightful sweetness make it a perfect dessert for coffee lovers and cake enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re preparing it for a family celebration, tea-time indulgence, or simply as a weekend baking project, this recipe provides reliable results and memorable flavor every time.