Coffee Walnut Cake

Certainly, I’d be happy to provide you with detailed information about Coffee Walnut Cake, including its history, components, preparation steps, and estimated preparation time.

Coffee Walnut Cake:

What is it?
Coffee Walnut Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of coffee and the earthy crunch of walnuts. It’s a moist and flavorful cake that’s perfect for coffee lovers and those who appreciate the delightful combination of coffee and nuts in a dessert.

History:
The exact origin of Coffee Walnut Cake is not well-documented, but it is believed to have its roots in British and European baking traditions. Coffee-flavored desserts became popular in the 19th century as coffee itself gained popularity. The addition of walnuts, which are commonly grown in Europe, likely came about as a way to add texture and nutty flavor to the cake.

Components:
The key components of a Coffee Walnut Cake typically include:

• Cake Base: A coffee-flavored sponge cake, often made with coffee extract or strong brewed coffee.
• Frosting: Coffee-flavored frosting or icing, which can be made with buttercream or cream cheese, infused with coffee flavor.
• Walnuts: Chopped or ground walnuts are mixed into the cake batter and sometimes used as a garnish.

Steps to Prepare Coffee Walnut Cake:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons instant coffee powder dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• For the coffee frosting: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened, 4 cups powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons instant coffee dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.

5. Stir in the dissolved coffee mixture.

6. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.

7. Fold in the chopped walnuts.

8. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.

9. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

11. Prepare the coffee frosting by beating together the softened butter, powdered sugar, dissolved coffee, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

12. Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer, then place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.

13. Garnish with additional chopped walnuts if desired.

Preparation Time:
The total preparation time for a Coffee Walnut Cake can vary, but it typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours from start to finish, including baking and cooling time.

I hope you find this information helpful, and if you decide to make a Coffee Walnut Cake, I’m sure it will be a delightful treat for you and your guests!

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Coffee Walnut Cake:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving (varies based on portion size and frosting).
• Total Fat: About 20-25 grams per serving (mainly from butter, walnuts, and frosting).
• Saturated Fat: Varies depending on the amount of butter and cream in the frosting.
• Cholesterol: Approximately 60-80 milligrams per serving (mainly from eggs and butter).
• Sodium: Around 200-250 milligrams per serving (mainly from baking powder and salt).
• Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50 grams per serving (mainly from flour and sugar).
• Dietary Fiber: Minimal fiber content.
• Sugars: About 30-35 grams per serving (from sugar in the cake and frosting).
• Protein: Around 4-6 grams per serving (mainly from eggs and walnuts).

Health Information:

1. Caloric Content: Coffee Walnut Cake is a calorie-dense dessert due to its sugar, butter, and nut content. Consuming it in moderation is advisable, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.

2. Fat Content: The cake contains a significant amount of fat, primarily from butter and walnuts. While fat is an essential nutrient, it’s important to be mindful of saturated fat intake, as excessive consumption can contribute to heart health issues.

3. Sugar: The cake is sweetened with granulated sugar, and the frosting often contains powdered sugar. Excessive sugar intake can lead to weight gain and other health concerns, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation.

4. Protein: While there’s some protein in the cake from eggs and walnuts, Coffee Walnut Cake is not a significant source of protein. To balance your diet, consider incorporating other protein-rich foods into your meals.

5. Portion Size: Pay attention to portion sizes, as large servings can substantially increase calorie and sugar intake. A smaller slice can help control these factors.

6. Nutritional Balance: Coffee Walnut Cake is a treat and should be enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet. It’s not considered a nutritious staple, so it’s essential to complement it with a variety of healthier foods to meet your nutritional needs.

7. Allergens: Be cautious if you have nut allergies, as walnuts are a key ingredient in this cake. Additionally, some people may be sensitive to caffeine in the coffee, so it’s worth considering if caffeine affects you.

Remember that the nutritional content can vary depending on the specific recipe and portion size. If you have specific dietary concerns or health goals, it’s a good idea to consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized guidance on including desserts like Coffee Walnut Cake in your diet.