Coffee and walnut cake is a delightful and indulgent treat that is loved by coffee enthusiasts all over the world. The rich and aromatic flavors of coffee combined with the crunchiness of walnuts create a perfect harmony of taste and texture. If you are a coffee lover looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, then learning how to make a coffee and walnut cake is a must. In this article, I will guide you through the step-by-step process of making this delicious cake.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
To make the coffee and walnut cake, you will need the following ingredients:
– 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
– 200g (1 cup) caster sugar
– 4 medium eggs
– 200g (1 and 1/3 cup) self-raising flour
– 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 100g (1 cup) walnuts, roughly chopped
For the Buttercream:
– 250g (2 cups) unsalted butter, softened
– 500g (4 cups) icing sugar, sifted
– 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water
– Walnut halves, for decoration
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) and greasing two 8-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. I find using an electric mixer makes this process much easier and quicker.
Step 2: Adding Eggs and Flour
Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to ensure a smooth and uniform texture in the cake. Gradually add the self-raising flour, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
Step 3: Adding the Coffee and Walnuts
Now, it’s time to add the star ingredients – coffee and walnuts. Pour the dissolved coffee into the cake batter and mix until evenly distributed. Then, fold in the chopped walnuts, making sure they are evenly dispersed throughout the batter.
Step 4: Baking the Cake
Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Making the Buttercream
While the cakes are baking and cooling, let’s prepare the delicious coffee-infused buttercream. In a separate mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until pale and fluffy. Gradually add the sifted icing sugar, mixing well after each addition. Finally, dissolve the instant coffee granules in hot water and add it to the buttercream, giving it a rich and fragrant coffee flavor.
Step 6: Assembling the Cake
Once the cakes have completely cooled, it’s time to assemble the coffee and walnut cake. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of buttercream on top. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining buttercream, using a spatula to smooth the surface.
Step 7: Decorating the Cake
To add a touch of elegance, decorate the cake with walnut halves. You can arrange them in a symmetrical pattern or get creative and create your own design. The choice is yours!
Step 8: Serving and Enjoying
Once you’ve finished decorating the coffee and walnut cake, it’s time to savor your creation. Cut a generous slice, serve it on a plate, and pair it with a freshly brewed cup of coffee for the ultimate coffee lover’s treat. The moist and flavorful cake, coupled with the aromatic coffee, is a match made in heaven.
In conclusion, making a coffee and walnut cake is a delightful experience for coffee lovers looking to satisfy their sweet cravings. By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious and indulgent cake that will surely impress your taste buds. Whether you are baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this coffee and walnut cake is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the wonderful aroma of coffee fill your kitchen as you embark on this tasty baking adventure.