If you’re searching for a dessert that wraps you in warm, nutty, and slightly spicy comfort, this Walnut Cinnamon Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture a tender, moist cake bursting with crunchy walnut pieces and embraced by fragrant cinnamon tones that create a perfect harmony in every bite. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or treating yourself to a cozy moment, this cake will quickly become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Walnut Cinnamon Cake Recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays its part to create an irresistibly flavorful cake. Using pantry staples and fresh walnuts ensures you get the perfect blend of texture, sweetness, and that inviting cinnamon aroma.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cake its structure and light crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds the perfect sweetness and helps with moisture retention.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened: Brings richness and tenderness to the cake’s texture.
- 1 cup crushed walnuts: Provides a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor contrast.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Offers subtle molasses notes that deepen the cake’s taste.
- 2 eggs: Bind everything together and give the cake a lovely rise.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and adds aromatic warmth.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This spice adds a cozy touch that perfectly complements the walnuts.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- 1/2 cup milk: Ensures a moist, tender crumb throughout.
How to Make Walnut Cinnamon Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to have your oven fully heated so the cake bakes evenly and develops a golden, inviting crust. Grease your cake pan to keep every slice coming out smoothly.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter with both granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for incorporating air, which lends a beautiful lightness to the cake.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to make sure they’re fully incorporated. Then, stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with its warm, sweet fragrance.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This combination ensures even distribution of the rising agents and spice for a perfectly balanced flavor throughout the cake.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. This technique keeps the batter smooth and prevents it from becoming too dense, resulting in a tender crumb you’ll love.
Step 6: Fold in Walnuts
Gently fold in the crushed walnuts last. This step allows the nuts to remain evenly distributed, providing delightful crunch in every bite without breaking down the batter.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pour your batter into the greased cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell while baking will have you counting down the minutes!
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a bit before transferring it to a wire rack to cool fully. This resting time helps the flavors settle and the texture firm up just right for slicing.
How to Serve Walnut Cinnamon Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of honey accentuates the warm spices and nutty crunch, making every slice look as tempting as it tastes. Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can take this cake from cozy to celebratory in seconds.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea, making it an ideal companion for relaxed morning gatherings or afternoon chats. For a fresh contrast, serve with a side of berries or a crisp apple salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the cake into small squares and serving on a wooden board for a rustic, inviting display. For a festive twist, sprinkle extra chopped walnuts and cinnamon on top before serving or layer it with cream cheese frosting for an indulgent makeover.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Walnut Cinnamon Cake stays moist and tasty when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. It’s perfect for baking ahead when you want a quick treat ready to go.
Freezing
If you want to keep the cake longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor revival.
Reheating
Rewarm slices in a low oven or microwave for a few seconds to bring back that just-baked sensation. A warm slice feels especially inviting alongside melting butter or a smear of cream cheese.
FAQs
Can I substitute the walnuts with another nut?
Absolutely! Pecans or almonds make excellent alternatives that offer a similar crunch and complementary flavor. Just be sure to adjust quantities to keep the texture balanced.
Is this cake suitable for baking in a different pan size?
Yes, you can use an 8-inch or 9-inch round or square pan. Adjust the baking time as needed—starting to check for doneness after 20 minutes is a good practice.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix, you can accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste. Just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free.
How do I get the walnuts evenly distributed in the cake?
Gently folding the walnuts in at the end of mixing helps keep them suspended evenly throughout the batter rather than settling at the bottom.
Can I add frosting or glaze to this cake?
Definitely! A simple cream cheese frosting or a cinnamon glaze pairs beautifully, enhancing both moisture and flavor if you want to dress it up.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about a slice of this Walnut Cinnamon Cake Recipe fresh from the oven. Its warm spices, crunchy walnuts, and tender crumb make it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends, I highly encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s sure to bring warmth and smiles around your table.
Print
Walnut Cinnamon Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Walnut Cinnamon Cake is a deliciously cozy treat perfect for any time of year. Loaded with crunchy walnuts and a warm hint of cinnamon, this cake offers a moist texture and a comforting flavor profile that’s ideal for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
Add-ins
- 1 cup crushed walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for baking the cake.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, combine the softened butter with both granulated and brown sugars. Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cake.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the creamed mixture, mixing thoroughly after each addition to ensure an even texture.
- Mix in Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with a rich aroma and flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. This helps maintain a smooth batter without overmixing.
- Fold in Walnuts: Gently fold in the crushed walnuts to add a crunchy texture throughout the cake.
- Prepare Cake Pan: Grease a cake pan and pour in the batter, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan before slicing and serving to allow it to set properly.
Notes
- For extra flavor, toast the walnuts lightly before adding them to the batter.
- You can substitute milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the cinnamon flavor if desired.
