This isn't just any cinnamon walnut coffee cake recipe; it's a journey to baked-good bliss. We've combined the comforting warmth of cinnamon with the satisfying crunch of walnuts to create a coffee cake that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to coffee cake perfection. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this irresistible treat!
What Makes This Cinnamon Walnut Coffee Cake Recipe Special?
This recipe isn't just a collection of ingredients; it's a carefully crafted blend of techniques and ingredients designed to deliver exceptional results. We use a combination of butter and oil in the batter for optimal moisture and tenderness. The streusel topping is generously studded with walnuts, offering a delightful textural contrast to the soft cake. And, of course, the generous amount of cinnamon ensures that each bite is infused with warm, comforting spice.
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Cinnamon Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
Step-by-Step 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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Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Don't overmix!
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Streusel Time: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts for the streusel 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 streusel 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 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with a cup of coffee or tea!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts would be delicious substitutions. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite nut combination.
How can I store leftover coffee cake?
Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
You can prepare the batter and streusel topping ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator overnight. Assemble and bake as directed the next day.
What kind of buttermilk should I use?
You can use either homemade or store-bought buttermilk.
Can I freeze this coffee cake?
Yes, you can freeze this coffee cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips for Coffee Cake Success:
- Don't overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted.
- Use a good quality vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting, if desired.
This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and nutty flavors will make it a new favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy baking!
