This isn't just any coffee cake; it's a symphony of warm cinnamon, crunchy walnuts, and moist, tender crumb. This recipe is designed to deliver the perfect balance of flavors and textures, ensuring a coffee cake experience that will leave you wanting more. We'll cover everything from choosing the right ingredients to mastering the baking process, ensuring you achieve that picture-perfect, golden-brown cake every time.
What Makes This Cinnamon Walnut Coffee Cake Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, we emphasize the quality of ingredients. Using fresh, high-quality walnuts and a good quality cinnamon will make a noticeable difference in the final flavor profile. Second, the recipe is carefully balanced to ensure the cake is moist and tender, avoiding dryness that can often plague coffee cakes. Finally, we've included tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect crumb topping, that irresistible crunchy layer that makes this cake so satisfying.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
For the Cinnamon Crumble Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt for the cake.
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Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is crucial for a tender crumb.
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Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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Alternate Wet & Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
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Fold in Walnuts: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts.
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Make the Crumble Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt for the topping. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Assemble & Bake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the batter.
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Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool & Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts would work well in this recipe. Just be sure to use the same quantity (1 cup chopped nuts).
How can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
You can bake the cake a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist and delicious for several days.
Can I freeze this coffee cake?
Yes! Once cooled completely, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What type of butter is best for this recipe?
Unsalted butter is preferred as it allows you to control the salt level in the cake. Using salted butter might make the cake too salty.
Can I use a different pan size?
While a 9x13 inch pan is recommended, you could use a different size. However, the baking time may need to be adjusted. Keep a close eye on it and use a toothpick to check for doneness.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Use cold butter for the crumble topping: This helps create a crispier topping.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting (optional): If you plan to frost the cake, let it cool completely to prevent the frosting from melting.
This cinnamon walnut coffee cake recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Its delightful aroma and irresistible taste will make it the star of any gathering. Enjoy!
