If you're searching for a cake that perfectly combines the rich flavors of coffee and walnuts, look no further than Mary Berry's Decadent Coffee Walnut Cake. This classic recipe is not only a delight to the senses but also a testament to the artistry of baking. Mary Berry, the queen of British baking, has been inspiring home bakers for decades with her simple yet sophisticated recipes. This cake is no exception; it's an elegant dessert that is perfect for tea time or any special occasion.
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Decadent%20Coffee%20Walnut%20Cake%20Recipe%20By%20Mary%20Berry" alt="Decadent Coffee Walnut Cake by Mary Berry"> </div>
Ingredients 🥄
To create this luscious cake, gather the following ingredients:
<table> <tr> <th>Ingredient</th> <th>Quantity</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Self-raising flour</td> <td>225g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Unsalted butter</td> <td>225g (softened)</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Caster sugar</td> <td>225g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Large eggs</td> <td>4</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Ground coffee</td> <td>2 tablespoons</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Walnuts (chopped)</td> <td>100g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Milk</td> <td>2 tablespoons</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Buttercream icing</td> <td>(for filling and decoration)</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Whole walnuts</td> <td>(for decoration)</td> </tr> </table>
Preparing the Cake 🎂
Step 1: Preheat the Oven 🔥
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (fan oven). Grease and line two 20cm (8-inch) round cake tins with baking paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it creates the base for your cake's texture.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to ensure that your batter is well combined.
Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Sift the self-raising flour into the mixture and fold it gently. Add the ground coffee mixed with hot water (to dissolve it) and the milk. Finally, fold in the chopped walnuts. Be careful not to overmix!
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Divide the mixture evenly between the prepared cake tins and smooth the tops. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Decadent%20Coffee%20Walnut%20Cake%20Recipe%20By%20Mary%20Berry" alt="Preparing the Decadent Coffee Walnut Cake"> </div>
Icing and Decoration 🍰
Step 6: Make the Buttercream Icing
While your cakes are cooling, prepare the buttercream icing. In a bowl, beat together butter, icing sugar, and a splash of coffee until smooth and fluffy. You can adjust the consistency with a little milk if needed.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of buttercream icing on top. Place the second layer on top and cover the whole cake with the remaining icing.
Step 8: Decorate
To finish, decorate the top of the cake with whole walnuts. This adds a delightful crunch and makes for an elegant presentation.
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Decadent%20Coffee%20Walnut%20Cake%20Recipe%20By%20Mary%20Berry" alt="Decorating the Coffee Walnut Cake"> </div>
Serving Suggestions ☕
Mary Berry's Decadent Coffee Walnut Cake is best served with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. Slice it into generous portions and watch as your friends and family indulge in its rich flavors. This cake can also be stored in an airtight container for up to three days, but it’s unlikely to last that long!
Pro Tips for Success ✨
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh coffee and high-quality butter can significantly enhance the flavor of your cake.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Cool Completely: Always allow the cakes to cool completely before icing to prevent the buttercream from melting.
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Decadent%20Coffee%20Walnut%20Cake%20Recipe%20By%20Mary%20Berry" alt="Serving the Decadent Coffee Walnut Cake"> </div>
Important Note 📌
"Remember that baking is as much science as it is art; precision is key!" This means you should always measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
Conclusion 🍽️
Mary Berry's Decadent Coffee Walnut Cake is a timeless recipe that captures the essence of classic British baking. Its rich and moist texture, combined with the delightful crunch of walnuts, creates a cake that is truly unforgettable. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress. So why not give it a try? You may just find that it becomes a staple in your baking repertoire!
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Decadent%20Coffee%20Walnut%20Cake%20Recipe%20By%20Mary%20Berry" alt="Enjoying the Decadent Coffee Walnut Cake"> </div>