Delia Smith’s Coffee And Walnut Cake Recipe

Delia Smith’s Coffee and Walnut Cake is a classic British dessert that blends the rich, aromatic flavor of coffee with the earthy crunch of walnuts, all enveloped in a tender, moist cake. This cake, a favorite for tea-time and special occasions, features layers of light, buttery sponge complemented by a coffee-flavored buttercream frosting.

The addition of crushed walnuts, both in the batter and as decoration, adds texture and depth, making each bite a delightful experience. Delia Smith, a beloved British chef, has made this cake a staple in many kitchens due to its easy preparation, balanced flavors, and versatility for different occasions.

Her version of the cake is simple yet sophisticated, appealing to both coffee lovers and those who enjoy a more subtle sweetness in their desserts. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon treat or served at a celebration, this cake never fails to impress with its classic flavors and comforting warmth.

Delia Smith’s Coffee And Walnut Cake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For this cake, the ingredients are fairly straightforward but crucial for bringing out the best in its flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

For The Cake

• Butter (unsalted, room temperature) – 175g (to provide richness and moistness to the cake)
• Caster sugar – 175g (gives sweetness and helps create a light sponge)
• Self-raising flour – 175g (the leavening agent needed to make the cake rise)
• Eggs – 2 large (these bind the ingredients and provide structure)
• Ground coffee – 1 tablespoon (for the characteristic coffee flavor)
• Walnuts – 75g (chopped, to add texture and nutty richness)
• Baking powder – 1 teaspoon (to support the cake’s rise alongside the self-raising flour)
• Milk – 2 tablespoons (to help bring everything together and create a smooth batter)

For The Buttercream Frosting

• Butter (unsalted, room temperature) – 100g (forms the creamy base of the frosting)
• Icing sugar – 200g (provides the necessary sweetness and smooth texture for the frosting)
• Ground coffee – 1 teaspoon (for that extra coffee kick in the frosting)
• Boiling water – 1 tablespoon (to dissolve the coffee and help incorporate it into the frosting)

For Decoration

• Walnut halves – for decorating the top of the cake (adds a final elegant touch to the presentation)

Equipment Needed

To successfully make Delia Smith’s Coffee and Walnut Cake, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

• Two 20cm (8-inch) round cake tins – to bake the cake layers evenly.
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer – for creaming the butter and sugar together and mixing the cake batter efficiently.
• Sifter or fine mesh sieve – to sift the dry ingredients, ensuring no lumps in the flour and baking powder.
• Mixing bowls – one for the cake batter and one for the frosting.
• Cooling rack – to cool the cakes evenly and prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Spatula – for spreading the buttercream frosting smoothly.
• A small saucepan – for dissolving the coffee in hot water for the buttercream.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Delia Smith’s Coffee And Walnut Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F), and grease and line the base of your two 20cm round cake tins.
2. Prepare the cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and caster sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This should take around 3-4 minutes.
3. Incorporate the eggs: Beat the eggs lightly and then add them to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, a little at a time, mixing well after each addition to prevent curdling.
4. Add dry ingredients: Sift the self-raising flour and baking powder into the bowl. Stir in the ground coffee and fold everything together gently, ensuring all the dry ingredients are incorporated.
5. Add the walnuts and milk: Chop the walnuts roughly and fold them into the cake batter. Add the milk, one tablespoon at a time, to achieve a smooth and dropping consistency.
6. Divide the batter: Split the batter evenly between the two prepared cake tins, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
7. Bake the cakes: Place the tins in the oven and bake for around 20-25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as oven temperatures can vary.
8. Cool the cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in their tins for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Prepare the buttercream: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Sift in the icing sugar and beat until smooth. Dissolve the ground coffee in the tablespoon of boiling water, then add it to the buttercream, mixing until well combined.
10. Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of the coffee buttercream over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining buttercream.
11. Decorate: Finish the cake by decorating the top with walnut halves in a circular pattern.
12. Serve: Once the cake is decorated, let it sit for a little while to set the frosting, then slice and enjoy!

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Use high-quality coffee: The coffee flavor is central to the cake, so using freshly brewed coffee or good-quality instant coffee can really enhance the flavor.
• Ensure the butter is at room temperature: Cold butter can cause the batter to curdle, while softened butter ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overworking the batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix just enough to combine all ingredients.
• Toast the walnuts: For extra flavor, lightly toast the walnuts in a dry pan before adding them to the batter. This brings out their nuttiness and adds an extra layer of depth to the cake.
• Let the cake layers cool completely: If the cakes are warm when assembling, the buttercream can melt. Make sure they are fully cooled before frosting.

Delia Smith’s Coffee and Walnut Cake is a deliciously simple yet elegant dessert that is perfect for a variety of occasions. Its combination of rich coffee flavor, crunchy walnuts, and a light, fluffy sponge makes it a timeless classic.

By following the step-by-step instructions, and using some of the tips to perfect the recipe, you’ll be able to create a cake that is sure to delight your guests or make any tea-time special. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is manageable and rewarding to make!.

Simple Twists On Delia Smith’s Coffee And Walnut Cake Recipe

Delia Smith’s Coffee and Walnut Cake is a beloved classic, perfect for coffee lovers and cake enthusiasts alike. But while the original recipe is a tried-and-true delight, there’s always room to experiment with subtle twists to elevate the flavors or add a personal touch. Here are some simple variations you can try to make this cake even more unique:

1. Add a Dash of Spice: For an autumnal twist, try incorporating a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cake batter. These spices complement the coffee and walnut flavors, adding depth and warmth to the cake. Cinnamon pairs particularly well with coffee, enhancing the rich aroma.
2. Use Flavored Coffee: Instead of just regular instant coffee, experiment with flavored coffee granules. Hazelnut, vanilla, or caramel coffee can infuse the cake with a different layer of flavor, giving it a more complex taste profile. Be sure to use a mild-flavored coffee, so it doesn’t overpower the walnuts.
3. Incorporate a Nutty Twist: While the classic version uses walnuts, you can substitute or complement them with other nuts like pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts. This not only changes the flavor but also adds a different texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, chop up some dark chocolate and mix it into the batter for a chocolate-coffee-walnut combination.
4. Use Buttermilk for Moisture: Swapping out a bit of regular milk for buttermilk in the batter will add a subtle tangy flavor, which balances the sweetness of the cake while ensuring a moist crumb. Buttermilk also helps the cake rise beautifully.
5. Frosting Variations: The original recipe uses a coffee-flavored buttercream, which is delicious. However, if you’re looking for a lighter alternative, consider using mascarpone cheese mixed with a bit of powdered sugar and coffee. This results in a creamy, slightly tangy frosting that pairs wonderfully with the cake’s coffee notes.
6. Glazed Finish: Instead of using the usual buttercream, try glazing the cake with a coffee syrup. You can make a syrup by dissolving sugar into brewed coffee and drizzling it over the top of the cake. This will add an extra layer of moisture and a shiny, caramelized finish.
7. Coconut Garnish: For a tropical flair, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the frosting or into the cake itself. The delicate coconut flavor complements the earthy tones of the coffee and the crunch of the walnuts, creating a pleasant contrast.

These variations maintain the essence of Delia Smith’s recipe but introduce fun, flavorful twists that cater to your preferences or give your guests a pleasant surprise.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

After enjoying a slice or two of this delectable cake, it’s important to store any leftovers properly to maintain freshness and texture. Here’s how to ensure that your Coffee and Walnut Cake stays delicious for as long as possible:

1. Cool the Cake Completely: Before storing the cake, make sure it has cooled completely. Storing a warm cake can lead to moisture accumulation, which could affect the texture and make it soggy.
2. Wrap it Properly: To prevent the cake from drying out, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can place the cake in an airtight container. Wrapping it helps retain moisture, ensuring that the cake stays soft.
3. Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to eat the leftovers within a couple of days, you can store the cake at room temperature. Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. The cake will remain fresh for about 2-3 days when stored this way.
4. Refrigeration: If you want to extend the shelf life of your coffee and walnut cake, refrigerate it. The cake can last for up to 5-7 days in the fridge. Be sure to cover it well with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any odors from other items in the fridge.
5. Freezing the Cake: For longer-term storage, freezing is an excellent option. Slice the cake into individual portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and then place the slices in a freezer bag. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it at room temperature for a few hours or heat it in the microwave for a quick snack.
6. Frosting Care: If you’ve already frosted the cake, the frosting should also be properly stored. It’s best to refrigerate a frosted cake to ensure the frosting doesn’t melt. If you’re freezing the cake, it’s a good idea to freeze the cake un-frosted and then apply the frosting after thawing.

By following these tips, you can savor your Coffee and Walnut Cake for days to come without losing any of its delightful flavor or texture.

What To Eat With Delia Smith’s Coffee And Walnut Cake?

Pairing your coffee and walnut cake with the right accompaniments can enhance the overall experience. Here are a few delightful ideas to elevate your coffee and walnut cake:

1. Fresh Fruit: A light, refreshing contrast to the rich, dense flavors of the cake, fresh fruit like berries, apples, or citrus can offer a burst of freshness. The acidity in fruits like oranges or raspberries balances the sweetness of the cake and makes for a well-rounded dessert.
2. Whipped Cream: For a luxurious touch, serve a dollop of freshly whipped cream alongside the cake. Its light, airy texture complements the dense cake, and the cream’s mild flavor provides a neutral base to the cake’s bold coffee and walnut profile. You can also flavor the cream with a splash of vanilla or a hint of cinnamon.
3. Espresso or Coffee: Since the cake is coffee-flavored, serving it with a cup of espresso, black coffee, or even a milky latte makes for a delightful pairing. The coffee will enhance the flavor of the cake while making for an ideal match, whether you’re hosting a brunch or afternoon tea.
4. Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla, coffee, or hazelnut ice cream can create a decadent pairing with the cake. The cold, creamy texture of ice cream complements the cake’s richness and creates a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
5. Cheese: If you’re in the mood for something savory to balance the sweetness of the cake, a mild cheese such as mascarpone or cream cheese can work wonders. For a more daring combination, a sharp blue cheese can be paired for an unexpected and complex flavor experience.
6. A Glass of Port or Dessert Wine: If you’re serving the cake for a more formal occasion, consider pairing it with a glass of port or a sweet dessert wine. The deep, rich flavors of the wine will complement the coffee and walnut cake, making for a more sophisticated tasting experience.

These pairings can transform your simple Coffee and Walnut Cake into an extraordinary dessert spread, perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion

Delia Smith’s Coffee and Walnut Cake is a timeless classic, adored for its rich flavors of coffee and the delightful crunch of walnuts. With a few simple twists, you can elevate the recipe and make it your own-whether it’s adding spices, experimenting with different nuts, or trying a unique frosting.

Storing leftovers is a breeze if you follow the right steps, ensuring you can enjoy this indulgent treat for days. Whether you’re pairing the cake with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a hot cup of coffee, these thoughtful accompaniments will only enhance the cake’s delightful flavors. Whatever the occasion, Delia’s cake is always a showstopper, and with a few tweaks, it can become even more personalized and perfect for your taste.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients In Delia Smith’s Coffee And Walnut Cake?

The key ingredients for Delia Smith’s coffee and walnut cake include butter, sugar, eggs, flour, walnuts, instant coffee, and a small amount of milk. The cake is known for its rich flavor, which comes from the combination of ground walnuts and a strong coffee taste, and it is typically complemented by a smooth coffee-flavored icing.

Can I Substitute The Walnuts In Delia Smith’s Coffee And Walnut Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with other nuts like pecans or hazelnuts, although this will slightly alter the flavor. If you’re looking for a nut-free version, you could try using ground seeds such as sunflower seeds or simply omit the nuts altogether for a coffee-flavored cake with a smooth texture.

How Can I Ensure Delia Smith’s Coffee And Walnut Cake Stays Moist?

To ensure the cake stays moist, it’s important to measure your ingredients accurately and avoid overbaking. Delia Smith’s recipe suggests using butter and a little milk, both of which help create a tender crumb. Additionally, don’t forget to cool the cake in the tin for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack, as this helps maintain its moisture.