Cinnamon Walnut Coffee Cake Recipe That Melts in Your Mouth

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm slice of cinnamon walnut coffee cake, especially when enjoyed alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea. This classic treat combines the rich, nutty flavor of crunchy walnuts with the aromatic warmth of cinnamon, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, looking for a cozy dessert, or simply craving a delightful snack, this coffee cake recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

With moist, tender crumb and a crunchy cinnamon-sugar walnut topping, this cake is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. It’s straightforward to make, requiring simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand.

Plus, it fills your kitchen with the most heavenly aroma that promises comfort and joy in every bite.

Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow cinnamon walnut coffee cake recipe that will have you baking like a pro in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cinnamon walnut coffee cake is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons:

• Perfect Texture: The cake is moist and fluffy on the inside, with a crisp, crumbly topping that adds delightful contrast.
• Balanced Flavors: The warm cinnamon spice combined with toasted walnuts gives it a rich, nutty flavor that’s not too sweet.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like flour, sugar, butter, and eggs, it’s accessible for any home baker.
• Versatile Occasion: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, afternoon tea, or dessert.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This cake tastes even better the next day and can be stored easily or frozen for later enjoyment.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
• For the topping:
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Equipment

• 9×9 inch square baking pan (or similar size)
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Cooling rack
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Toast the walnuts: Spread 1 cup of chopped walnuts on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix until the nuts are evenly coated. Set aside.
4. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
5. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
6. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Combine wet and dry: Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
8. Fold in toasted walnuts: Gently fold the toasted walnuts into the batter.
9. Assemble the cake: Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Sprinkle half of the topping mixture over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top and finish with the rest of the topping.
10. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Cool and serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

“For extra crunch, toast your walnuts just before mixing them into the batter. Avoid overbaking to keep the cake moist and tender.”

• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
• Add fruit: Mix in 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries or chopped apples for a fruity twist.
• Use pecans: Swap walnuts with pecans if preferred; they offer a slightly sweeter and buttery flavor.
• Cream cheese swirl: Add a layer of sweetened cream cheese between the batters for a rich surprise.
• Vegan option: Use plant-based butter, flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg), and dairy-free yogurt to make this recipe vegan.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This cinnamon walnut coffee cake is delicious on its own, but here are some ways to elevate your serving experience:

• Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Pair with your favorite hot coffee or chai tea to enhance the cinnamon aroma.
• Top with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
• Accompany with fresh fruit or a fruit compote for a refreshing contrast.

Conclusion

This cinnamon walnut coffee cake is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its tender crumb, spicy cinnamon notes, and crunchy walnut topping, it’s a treat that satisfies both simple and sophisticated cravings.

The recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels and lends itself beautifully to customization, whether you’re adding fruit, switching nuts, or seeking a vegan alternative.

Not only does this cake make a perfect breakfast or brunch centerpiece, but it also shines as an afternoon snack or sweet ending to dinner. Plus, the inviting aroma that fills your kitchen while baking is a wonderful bonus that makes the whole experience even more rewarding.

Give this recipe a try, and you’ll soon discover why cinnamon walnut coffee cake remains a beloved staple in homes everywhere.

For more delicious recipes to try next, check out our Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious, or Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.

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