100 Year Old Black Walnut Cake
A rich, nutty cake featuring black walnuts with a moist texture, perfect for special occasions or teatime indulgence, offering a nostalgic flavor experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut cold butter into pieces and quickly cream it.
- Add sugar and cream well with butter.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition.
- Sift flour and baking powder together.
- Add alternately with milk to the creamed mixture.
- Stir in flavoring and chopped black walnuts.
- Turn batter into a tube pan that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray or well buttered.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 1 1/2 hours or until the cake tests done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the butter is at the right temperature before creaming; cold butter can lead to a dense cake. If black walnut flavoring is hard to find, you can substitute with a mix of vanilla and a little extra chopped walnuts for a similar taste. Make sure to sift the flour and baking powder to avoid lumps.
Serving Suggestions
This Black Walnut Cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. Serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For a festive touch, consider serving it with slices of fresh fruits or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, slice the cake and warm it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 100 Year Old Black Walnut Cake contains roughly 416 calories, with 10g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular walnuts instead of black walnuts?
Yes, you can substitute regular walnuts, but the flavor will be milder. Black walnuts have a more intense, earthy flavor that is characteristic of this cake. If you prefer, you can also experiment with a mix of both for a unique taste.
What can I do if the cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out dense, ensure that the butter was sufficiently creamed and that you didn’t overmix the batter after adding the flour. Always fold in the dry ingredients gently. Adding a little more buttermilk can also help lighten the texture.
How can I enhance the flavor of the cake?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract alongside the black walnut flavoring. You can also incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note that complements the walnuts beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).