This classic cinnamon walnut coffee cake is a vintage favorite known for its tender, moist crumb and layered filling of brown sugar, walnuts, and cinnamon. Topped with a sweet, nutty crunch, this cake pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The recipe uses simple pantry staples and features a two-layer assembly, making it an ideal choice for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dessert. Its timeless flavor and beautiful presentation make it a must-have for family gatherings and weekend treats.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 2 tbsp shortening
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 egg
- ¾ cup flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg white (beaten stiff)
Filling
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Cream the shortening and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolk and mix well.
- Sift flour and baking powder together.
- Add dry ingredients alternately with milk, mixing until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Fold in the stiffly beaten egg white until just combined.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, walnuts, flour, and melted butter.
- Mix thoroughly until crumbly.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Grease a deep pie tin or cake pan.
- Spread half of the cake batter into the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle half of the filling mixture evenly over the batter.
- Spread the remaining batter on top, then sprinkle the remaining filling.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350–375°F (175–190°C) for 45–60 minutes.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Tips
- Use sour cream or buttermilk in place of milk for richer flavor and tenderness.
- Add ½ teaspoon nutmeg or clove to boost warm spice profile.
- Substitute pecans for walnuts if preferred.
- Drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze after baking for a bakery-style finish.
- Bake in a 9-inch springform pan for easier slicing and presentation.
- Fold egg whites very gently to preserve lift and keep cake light.
- Toast the walnuts lightly before adding for deeper flavor.
- Add a handful of raisins or chopped dates to the filling for extra sweetness.
- Line pan with parchment for easier removal.
- Serve warm with coffee for classic presentation.
Nutrition
Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 33gProtein: 4gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 95mgPotassium: 115mgFiber: 2gSugar: 21gVitamin A: 80IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1.2mg
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