Walnut Cake is a classic homemade dessert that captures the warmth and richness of old-fashioned baking. This recipe pairs tender, buttery crumb with the nutty depth of walnuts, a beloved flavor combination popular throughout the early 20th century in American kitchens. The process of folding in whipped egg whites gives the cake its delicate texture, while the caramel frosting adds a luscious, nostalgic finish. It’s the kind of cake that evokes the charm of farmhouse tables, Sunday dinners, and celebrations where the aroma of baking filled the home.
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup butter (softened)
- 1 cup sugar (divided use)
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 ¾ cups flour
- 2 ¾ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup milk
- 2 egg whites
- ¼ cup walnuts (chopped )
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Cream butter with ⅔ of the sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg yolks one at a time, beating after each addition.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 3: Add Milk and Flour Alternately
- Add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture alternately with milk, beginning and ending with flour. Stir in chopped walnuts.
Step 4: Whip Egg Whites
- Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the remaining ⅓ of sugar and continue beating until glossy.
Step 5: Fold and Bake
- Gently fold the egg white mixture into the batter until combined.
- Pour into a greased 8-inch round cake pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Frost
- Cool completely and cover with caramel frosting.
Tips
- Use room-temperature butter, eggs, and milk for better batter emulsification.
- Toast the walnuts lightly before adding them to enhance flavor.
- Line the pan with parchment to prevent sticking and ensure clean removal.
- Do not overbeat egg whites after adding sugar; soft peaks give lighter texture.
- Fold egg whites gently into batter to maintain volume.
- Substitute pecans if walnuts are unavailable.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note.
- Check doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center.
- The recipe mentions Caramel frosting, pair with caramel icing for authenticity.
- Bake in cupcakes or loaf pans; adjust baking time accordingly.
Nutrition
Calories: 315kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 5gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 220mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 350IUCalcium: 80mgIron: 1.3mg
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