Classic Butter and Walnut Cake: A Journey to Traditional Flavors

Classic Butter and Walnut Cake: A Journey to Traditional Flavors 🥜

This classic butter cake with toasted walnuts is a delight for the palate. Its fluffy texture, buttery flavor, and crunchy walnuts make it the perfect choice for any occasion. Whether for a relaxed breakfast or a special snack, this cake will never disappoint. 😍✨

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened 🧈
• 2 cups of granulated sugar 🍚
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature 🥚
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract 🍦
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour 🌾
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder 🌟
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt 🧂
• 1 cup of milk 🥛
• 1 cup of toasted, chopped walnuts 🥜

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the oven and walnuts: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a baking pan or line it with parchment paper. Toast the walnuts in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until golden and fragrant. Let them cool.

2️⃣ Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.

3️⃣ Add eggs and vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

4️⃣ Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.

5️⃣ Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually alternate adding the dry mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.

6️⃣ Add the walnuts: Gently fold the toasted walnuts into the batter to keep them evenly distributed.

7️⃣ Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8️⃣ Cool and serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for a Perfect Cake

1. Use room-temperature ingredients: Room-temperature butter and eggs mix more evenly, creating a uniform batter.
2. Toast the walnuts properly: Toasting enhances their flavor and improves texture.
3. Don’t overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so stop once the ingredients are just combined.

Common Mistakes and Solutions

1. Why is my cake dense?
   • Cause: Overmixing the batter or inaccurate measuring of ingredients.
   • Solution: Use a scale for precise measurements and mix until ingredients are just combined.
2. Why did my cake sink in the center?
   • Cause: Opening the oven door too soon or underbaking.
   • Solution: Avoid opening the oven before 50 minutes and ensure the cake is fully baked before removing it.
3. Can I use other types of nuts?
   • Yes! Almonds, hazelnuts, or macadamia nuts are excellent alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I substitute the milk with another liquid?
Yes, you can use almond milk, coconut milk, or even cream for a different twist.

2. How long does the cake stay fresh?
If stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to 4 days at room temperature or a week in the refrigerator.

3. Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.