Name: Cinnamon Walnut Cake Recipe | Moist And Spiced
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 10 servings
Cuisine: American / Baked goods
Ingredients: ½ cup chopped California walnuts; ⅓ cup light brown sugar; ⅓ cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; ½ cup salted butter, melted; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; ¾ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup packed brown sugar; ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt; ½ cup milk

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Cinnamon walnut cake recipe is a moist and flavorful dessert made by combining spiced cake batter with a rich cinnamon walnut filling.

This cinnamon walnut cake recipe offers a delightful contrast between the soft, tender crumb and the crunchy, sweet walnut layer infused with cinnamon and sugars.

The special feature of this recipe is the generous cinnamon walnut filling that creates layers of texture and taste throughout the cake. Inspired by classic bakery flavors, this cake brings warmth and comfort to every bite.

The step-by-step process involves preparing the filling, mixing the batter, layering carefully, and baking until golden. This cake makes a wonderful treat to enjoy with family and friends.

Why This Recipe Is A Must-Try?

This cinnamon walnut cake recipe is a must-try because it combines rich, warm spices with the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts, creating a unique texture and flavor experience. The balance between the moist cake and the sweet, spiced filling makes every bite delightful.

Cinnamon walnut cake recipe stands out from typical cakes by offering a layered surprise that feels homemade and comforting. The ingredients are simple and accessible, yet the result is impressive and delicious.

This cinnamon walnut cake recipe brings together familiar flavors in a way that feels special and indulgent, making it a wonderful choice for anyone wanting to enjoy a homemade dessert with a little extra charm.

How To Prepare Cinnamon Walnut Cake Recipe?

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Course: Dessert / Cake

Cuisine: American / Baked goods

Yield: 10 servings

Kitchen Utensils Needed

Mixing bowls (2)
Electric mixer or whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula
9-inch round cake pan or loaf pan
Cooling rack
Knife (for chopping walnuts)

Ingredients

For the Cinnamon Walnut Filling:

½ cup chopped California walnuts
⅓ cup light brown sugar
⅓ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ cup salted butter, melted

For the Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup packed brown sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
½ cup milk

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour your cake pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2:

Prepare the cinnamon walnut filling by combining chopped walnuts, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Stir in the melted salted butter until everything is evenly coated. Set aside.

Step 3:

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This ensures the dry ingredients are well combined.

Step 4:

In another bowl, use an electric mixer or whisk to cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.

Step 5:

Mix the sour cream (or yogurt) and milk into the wet ingredients. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Avoid over mixing to keep the cake tender.

Step 6:

Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan. Evenly spread the cinnamon walnut filling over the batter layer. Then, pour the remaining batter over the filling, smoothing the top gently with a spatula.

Step 7:

Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts Of Cinnamon Walnut Cake Recipe

Nutrition	Amounts
Calories	350 kcal
Fat	18 g
Carbohydrates	42 g
Protein	5 g
Sugar	25 g
Fiber	2 g

Why My Recipe Works

My cinnamon walnut cake recipe works because it carefully balances flavors and textures, ensuring the cake stay moist while the cinnamon walnut filling adds a rich, crunchy layer.

The use of both baking powder and baking soda provides the perfect rise and light crumb. Combining sour cream with milk keeps the cake tender and slightly tangy, which complements the sweetness of the filling.

Melting the butter in the filling helps the sugar and cinnamon coat the walnuts evenly, creating a flavorful, gooey layer.

Each step is designed to build on the last, resulting in a harmonious cinnamon walnut cake recipe that’s both flavorful and satisfying every time.

Serving Suggestions

To serve cinnamon walnut cake recipe, let it cool completely before slicing for clean, even pieces. Warm each slice slightly if you prefer a soft, comforting texture.

Place on a dessert plate and garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel, or a dollop of whipped cream.

Pair it with coffee, tea, or warm milk for a cozy treat. For special occasions, add a few fresh berries or a mint leaf to elevate the presentation.

Health Benefits

Cinnamon walnut cake recipe, while a sweet treat, includes ingredients that offer some nutritional value. Walnuts are a great source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, which can support heart health and help reduce inflammation.

They also provide protein, fiber, and antioxidants that contribute to overall wellness. Cinnamon may help with blood sugar regulation and has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.

Using sour cream or yogurt adds calcium and beneficial bacteria for digestion. Though it’s still a dessert, incorporating these wholesome ingredients makes this cake a more balanced option when enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Best Variations

➤ Apple Cinnamon Walnut Cake: Fold in finely chopped apples into the batter for added moisture and a fruity flavor that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon and walnuts.

➤ Maple Glazed Cinnamon Walnut Cake: Drizzle a warm maple syrup glaze over the cooled cake for a rich, sweet finish with a hint of caramel flavor.

➤ Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Walnut Cake: Add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful combination of chocolate, spice, and nuts.

➤ Cream Cheese Swirl Cinnamon Walnut Cake: Swirl a sweetened cream cheese mixture into the batter before baking to add richness and a cheesecake-like layer.

➤ Whole Wheat Cinnamon Walnut Cake: Replace half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and added fiber, making it a slightly healthier version.

Pro Expert Tips

1. Lightly toasting the walnuts before adding them enhances their flavor and adds a deeper, nuttier taste to the filling.

2. Full-fat versions give the cake better moisture, richness, and texture compared to low-fat alternatives.

3. Sifting the flour, baking powder, soda, and cinnamon removes lumps and helps the batter mix evenly for a lighter, fluffier cake.

4. For even flavor, sprinkle the filling evenly across the batter layer rather than dumping it in one spot.

5. Allow the cake to cool fully in the pan or on a rack to set the structure and prevent crumbling when slicing.

How To Make With More Delicious

◆ Toast the Walnuts: Lightly toast the walnuts before mixing them in to bring out their nutty flavor and add a satisfying crunch.

◆ Add Warm Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding spices like nutmeg, cloves, or allspice along with cinnamon for a richer, more complex taste.

◆ Use Buttermilk: Substitute regular milk with buttermilk to make the cake extra moist and tender with a subtle tang.

◆ Incorporate Fruit: Fold in chopped apples or raisins into the batter for natural sweetness and extra texture.

◆ Top with Cream Cheese Frosting: Spread a smooth cream cheese frosting on top for a creamy, tangy finish that complements the cinnamon and walnuts perfectly.

Storage Tips

To keep your cinnamon walnut cake recipe fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week.

To preserve moisture, let the cake come to room temperature before serving. You can also freeze the cake, well-wrapped, for up to 2 months just thaw it slowly in the fridge before enjoying.

FAQs About Cinnamon Walnut Cake

Can I substitute other nuts for walnuts?

Yes, you can easily swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Each nut adds a slightly different flavor and texture, but all pair beautifully with cinnamon and add a satisfying crunch to the cake.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour. This will maintain the cake’s texture and flavor without compromising the recipe.

What’s the best way to store leftover cinnamon walnut cake?

Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. Always bring refrigerated cake to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Can I freeze cinnamon walnut cake for later?

Yes, the cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.

Can I replace sour cream with something else?

Plain yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and will keep the cake moist and tender. You can also use Greek yogurt for a thicker texture or buttermilk as an alternative, but adjust the quantities slightly to maintain the right batter consistency.

Conclusion

This cinnamon walnut cake recipe was an easy success, resulting in a delicious and moist cake that I truly enjoyed.

The cinnamon walnut cake recipe process was straightforward, and the flavors of cinnamon and walnuts blended perfectly to create a wonderful treat.

I hope my clear and simple steps help you feel confident in making this cinnamon walnut cake recipe yourself. I’m sure once you try it, you’ll love it as much as I did and want to make it again soon!

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