Old Fashioned Black Walnut Cake Recipe Made Easy

If you’ve ever had the pleasure of tasting an old fashioned black walnut cake, you know it’s a nostalgic treat that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. This classic dessert, cherished through generations, combines the rich, slightly bitter flavor of black walnuts with a moist, tender cake base.

Perfect for afternoon tea or special occasions, this cake embodies a rustic charm that’s hard to resist. Whether you grew up with this recipe or are discovering it for the first time, making an old fashioned black walnut cake at home is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and your heart with fond memories.

In this post, I’ll guide you through a traditional recipe that’s easy to follow and yields a perfectly textured cake bursting with nutty goodness. Plus, I’ll share some tips, variations, and serving ideas to make this a go-to dessert for your family and friends.

So, dust off your mixing bowls and get ready to bake a timeless classic!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This old fashioned black walnut cake recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, boasting a depth of flavor that modern cakes sometimes lack. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

• Rich, nutty flavor: The black walnuts add an earthy, slightly bittersweet taste that’s uniquely satisfying.
• Moist and tender crumb: Thanks to the perfect balance of butter, sugar, and buttermilk, this cake stays moist for days.
• Versatile: Enjoy it plain, with frosting, or even as a layered cake for celebrations.
• Easy to make: The recipe uses common baking ingredients and straightforward steps—no fancy techniques required.
• Comfort food at its best: It’s an ideal cake to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee, evoking nostalgic memories.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 ½ cups chopped black walnuts
• Optional: ½ cup chopped dates or raisins (for added sweetness and texture)

Equipment

• Two 9-inch round cake pans (or one 9×13-inch pan)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack
• Knife and chopping board (for walnuts)
• Toothpick or cake tester

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer or beat vigorously by hand until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently after each addition just until combined.
6. Fold in the chopped black walnuts (and optional dates or raisins) using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then turn them out onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, frost or serve as desired. Classic choices include a simple cream cheese frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Tips & Variations

“For the deepest flavor, toast the black walnuts lightly in a dry pan before chopping.”

• Toast the walnuts: Enhance their flavor and crunch by toasting them over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring often. Let cool before folding into the batter.
• Use sour cream instead of buttermilk: For an even richer cake, substitute buttermilk with sour cream in equal amounts.
• Add spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg complements the walnuts beautifully.
• Frosting options: Try classic cream cheese frosting, brown sugar buttercream, or even a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
• Make it gluten-free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for structure.
• Layer cake: Double the recipe and stack two or three layers with frosting in between for a showstopper.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This black walnut cake is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments:

• Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Top with a simple cream cheese frosting for a classic Southern-style treat.
• Pair with your favorite hot beverage like coffee, black tea, or chai for a cozy afternoon snack.
• For a festive touch, garnish with extra chopped walnuts and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey.
• Slice the cake thinly and serve alongside fresh fruit for a lighter option.

If you enjoy this old fashioned black walnut cake, you might also love exploring other comforting and wholesome recipes such as the Clean Eating Breakfast Vegetarian Recipes for Every Morning, the hearty Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food, or a refreshing Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

These recipes complement your baking adventures perfectly with wholesome flavors.

Conclusion

The old fashioned black walnut cake is more than just dessert—it’s a nostalgic journey back to a simpler time when baking was a cherished ritual. Its rich, nutty flavor and moist texture make it a wonderful treat for all occasions, from casual family gatherings to special celebrations.

The recipe is straightforward, uses familiar ingredients, and offers plenty of room for creativity with frosting and mix-ins.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this cake invites you to slow down and enjoy the process of making something truly comforting. Once you bake it, you’ll understand why this classic has stood the test of time.

So, gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones, and enjoy a slice of tradition that tastes like home.

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