Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Walnut Cake is a perfect balance of textures and flavors, with the earthy crunch of walnuts providing contrast to the moist, fluffy cake. The nutty richness from the walnuts enhances the sweetness of the cake, and the addition of a light frosting or glaze makes it even more indulgent. It’s not overly sweet, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle dessert. Plus, it’s simple to make, requiring only a few ingredients, making it a great go-to for any occasion. If you love nuts in your desserts, this cake is a must-try!

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups walnuts, chopped and toasted

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Walnuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped walnuts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and fragrant. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon (if using), and salt.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Add the Toasted Walnuts: Gently fold in the toasted walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9-inch round cake pan or a similar-sized pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Frost (Optional): Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, frost the cake with a simple cream cheese frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10 slices
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Frosting Options: You can frost the walnut cake with a simple cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or a light buttercream. Alternatively, dust the top with powdered sugar for a simpler presentation.
Add Raisins or Dried Fruit: For a more complex flavor, you can add raisins, dried cranberries, or apricots to the batter along with the walnuts.
Spices: Experiment with other spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover walnut cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing: The walnut cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cake, you can gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm the entire cake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use raw walnuts instead of toasted walnuts?

Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can use raw walnuts. Toasting them, however, brings out their natural oils and adds depth to the cake’s flavor.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the walnut cake a day in advance. Just allow it to cool completely and store it in an airtight container. You can frost it the day you plan to serve it.

Can I substitute butter with oil in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with an equal amount of vegetable oil or another mild-flavored oil. This may result in a slightly different texture, but the cake will still be delicious.

Can I add other nuts to this cake?

Yes, you can experiment with other nuts like pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary depending on the nut you use.

Can I make this cake without eggs?

Yes, you can use an egg substitute such as a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or a store-bought egg replacer to make this cake vegan-friendly.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. The cake may have a denser texture and a slightly nuttier flavor, but it will still be delicious.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, the cake is ready.

Can I make this walnut cake in a different pan size?

Yes, you can use a different-sized pan. If you use a smaller pan, the cake will be thicker and may require additional baking time. If using a larger pan, the cake may bake faster, so be sure to check for doneness early.

Can I make a walnut cake with a different flavor?

Absolutely! You can add other flavorings like lemon zest, orange zest, or almond extract to change the flavor profile of the cake.

How should I serve walnut cake?

You can serve walnut cake on its own or with a side of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Conclusion

Walnut Cake is a simple yet decadent dessert that combines the rich flavor of toasted walnuts with a moist, tender cake base. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with a light frosting, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress. The perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors makes this cake a great choice for any occasion, from casual gatherings to more formal celebrations. With easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward preparation process, this walnut cake is a must-try for any nut lover!