Black Walnut Cake Recipe

Black Walnut Cake Recipe, a classic dessert loved for its deep nutty flavor from black walnuts. Black walnuts have a characteristic, more intense and bitter taste than regular walnuts – their almost overwhelming flavor works well here when complemented with cake sugar.

This cake is a favorite, often passed down through the generations, and can be used to take advantage of all those black walnuts that fall each autumn. The firm texture and nutty flavor of the cake can make a family, celebration, or holiday treat.

This cake has such a great nutty flavor and is so moist, it will have your whole family asking for seconds this holiday season. While the cake was baking, I prepared a black walnut praline for contrast—a simple treat that pairs wonderfully with sweet cookies or cakes. 

This recipe is about the required ingredients, equipment and how to prepare this amazing dessert. So prepare your sleeves to bake a super yummy cake.

Black walnut cake ingredients

That scrumptious black walnut cake recipe requires the following ingredients:.

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup chopped pecan nuts
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped black walnuts

Cream Cheese Frosting

• ¼ cup softened butter
• 10 ounce cream cheese
• 4 ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment Needed

Equipment for making granola before baking:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Baking pan
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Cooling rack

Making Process

So now your ingredients and supplies are all ready to go… If you want the delicious details of this black walnut cake recipe, just read on!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan with butter or cooking spray. You can line the bottom with parchment paper if you want to be sure.

Step 2: In a large bowl, add butter and sugar; Beat two until creamy. This may take a few minutes. Then add the eggs, one at a time, and mix thoroughly between each addition. Mix in the buttermilk and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3:In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt , chopped pecan nuts and chopped black walnuts. Gently add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan on a rack for about 15 min. 

Step 5: Cream the butter and cheese in a bowl. Mix together powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Mix well. When the cake is done baking, remove from the oven and spread the cream cheese frosting and chopped pecan nuts evenly over the cooled cake.

Storage Tips

Room Temperature:For best flavor, keep the walnut cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. 

Refrigeration: Store it for up to 7 days in the fridge if you want to keep it longer..

Nutrition

• Calories: 445 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Sugars: 45g

FAQ

Can I substitute black walnuts with regular ones?

A: Yes! Since black walnut cake recip have a very specific flavor, you could also use regular walnuts for the base instead to tone down this unique taste.

Can I prepare this in advance? 

A: Absolutely! The cake can be made a day ahead. Instead, place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

A: If desired, the all-purpose flour can be swapped with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend you select is appropriate for baking.

Is it possible to decorate this cake with icing?

A: The topping has a lot of flavor, but feel free to use your favorite cream cheese frosting or even just drizzle with powdered sugar glaze for a sweeter treat.

Final Thoughts

If you like black walnuts and want to know how they can become the best walnut cake, probably here is your answer. This cake is perfect for serving up at a family gathering, birthday party, or just having those lazy nights in! Basically, grab your ingredients, follow the recipe, and enjoy one (or two) slices of this yummy goodness. Happy baking!