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–+ servings
Coffee Cake
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.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 285 kcal

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
Keyword brunch cake, cinnamon walnut filling, classic American baking, coffee cake, heirloom recipe, old-fashioned baking, streusel, vintage
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