Walnut Spice Cake
Walnut Spice Cake offers a moist, flavorful treat with warm spices and crunchy walnuts, perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings. Its aromatic blend of cinnamon and cloves makes it a comforting dessert that pairs well with caramel frosting, appealing to spice lovers and nut enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round pans with 1 1/2-inch sides.
- In a mixing bowl, beat all ingredients except walnuts on low speed for 30 seconds, scraping the bowl constantly.
- Increase to high speed and beat for 3 minutes, scraping the bowl frequently.
- Stir in chopped walnuts.
- Pour batter evenly into the prepared pans.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and cool completely.
- Fill and frost with caramel frosting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using light brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. If you don't have buttermilk, you can easily substitute it by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes. Make sure to fold in the walnuts gently to avoid overmixing the batter. This cake pairs beautifully with Cherry Cheese Cake Ice Cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the walnut spice cake with a drizzle of caramel frosting on top for an indulgent treat. It pairs well with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect afternoon snack. For a more festive presentation, consider garnishing with extra chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This cake also complements well with Simple Rolls as a delightful side during gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover walnut spice cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can last up to 3 months. To reheat, just let it thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Walnut Spice Cake contains roughly 307 calories, with 8g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value) and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 884mg per serving (38% 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 use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds if you prefer. Just ensure that the nuts are chopped to a similar size to maintain the texture of the cake. Keep in mind that different nuts may slightly alter the flavor, but they will still provide a delightful crunch.
What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
A sinking cake can be caused by underbaking or using too much leavening agent. Always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, it is ready. Ensure that you measure the baking powder and baking soda accurately to prevent this issue.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free walnut spice cake, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum, which helps to provide structure. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly, so keep an eye on the batter consistency to achieve the right texture.
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).