Coffee Walnut Cake
A moist coffee walnut cake with rich flavors of strong coffee and crunchy walnuts, perfect for coffee lovers and suitable for tea-time or dessert gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the margarine and castor sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Sift the plain flour, salt, and baking soda together and fold into the mixture.
- Gently fold in the strong coffee and chopped walnuts until just combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased cake tin and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you prefer, you can substitute the walnuts with pecans or almonds. To enhance the coffee flavor, use espresso instead of regular coffee. Make sure to not overmix the batter after adding the flour, as this can lead to a denser cake. Additionally, sifting the dry ingredients helps incorporate air for a lighter texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Coffee Walnut Cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for afternoon tea. For a festive touch, try serving it alongside a slice of Christmas White Cake. Adding fresh fruit can also enhance the presentation and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Coffee Walnut Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy it at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coffee Walnut Cake contains roughly 171 calories, with 4g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1397mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).
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 make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture. The baking soda will still work well with the gluten-free flour, ensuring the cake rises nicely.
How can I make the cake more chocolatey?
To add a chocolate twist, consider incorporating cocoa powder into the batter. You can replace a few tablespoons of plain flour with unsweetened cocoa powder to achieve a chocolate-flavored Coffee Walnut Cake that complements the coffee beautifully.
What can I use instead of strong coffee?
If you're not a coffee drinker, you can substitute strong coffee with brewed tea, such as chai or Earl Grey, for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, use a coffee substitute made from roasted grains, which will still provide a pleasant depth without the caffeine.
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).