Name: Coffee and Walnut Loaf Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 200 g Light Brown Sugar; 200 g Butter; 200 g Self-Raising Flour; 60 g Chopped Walnuts; 2 Eggs; 1 tbsp Instant Coffee (dissolved in water) or 1 tbsp Coffee Essence; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 180 g Icing Sugar; 90 g Butter; 1 tbsp Instant Coffee (dissolved in water) or 1 tbsp Coffee Essence; 1 tbsp Milk (optional); Chopped Walnuts (handful, to decorate)

There is something irresistibly comforting about a classic Coffee and Walnut Loaf Cake Recipe, and this version is an absolute showstopper. Picture a moist, tender crumb infused with rich coffee flavor and studded with crunchy walnuts, all crowned with a luscious coffee buttercream frosting. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy afternoon treat, this cake brings warmth and joy to any table. If you love the combination of deep coffee aromas with nutty textures, this Coffee and Walnut Loaf Cake Recipe is sure to become one of your all-time favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with one layer of light brown, creamy dough. The dough has a soft, smooth texture with visible swirls and peaks from mixing, clinging to the sides of the bowl, showing a thick consistency. The glass bowl is transparent and rounded, allowing a good view of the dough inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step towards baking an exceptional Coffee and Walnut Loaf Cake Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role in building its wonderful taste, moist texture, and inviting appearance. From the sweetness of light brown sugar to the subtle bitterness of coffee and the satisfying crunch of walnuts, these simple ingredients combine beautifully in every bite.

200 g Light Brown Sugar: Adds a deep caramel sweetness and moisture to the cake.
200 g Butter: Provides richness and a tender crumb when creamed with sugar.
200 g Self-Raising Flour: Gives structure and a soft, fluffy texture to the loaf.
60 g Chopped Walnuts: Introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor throughout the cake.
2 Eggs: Bind the ingredients and help the cake rise beautifully.
1 tbsp Instant Coffee (Dissolved in Water) or Coffee Essence: The star flavor, adding that unmistakable coffee kick.
1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall aroma and deepens the cake’s flavor.
180 g Icing Sugar: Sweetens the buttercream frosting perfectly.
90 g Butter (for icing): Creates that smooth, creamy texture for the buttercream.
1 tbsp Instant Coffee (Dissolved in Water) or Coffee Essence (for icing): Intensifies the coffee flavor in the frosting.
1 tbsp Milk (Optional): Helps to achieve a spreadable consistency for the buttercream.
Handful of Chopped Walnuts (for decorating): Adds a finishing touch of crunch and visual appeal.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Coffee and Walnut Loaf Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Tin

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan, gas mark 4, 350°F). Line a 2lb loaf tin thoroughly with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of your beautiful cake later.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Place 200 g of softened butter and 200 g of light brown sugar into a large mixing bowl. Whisk them together until you achieve a light, fluffy texture—this is the magic that sets a wonderfully moist base for the cake.

Step 3: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Coffee

Into the creamy mixture, beat in 2 eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a tablespoon of instant coffee dissolved in warm water or your preferred coffee essence. Mix gently until everything is well combined and smooth, forming the batter’s coffee-scented heart.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour and Walnuts

Sift in 200 g of self-raising flour, then fold in 60 g of chopped walnuts. This is where the cake’s texture really comes together: light and tender with delightful nutty surprises.

Step 5: Bake Your Loaf

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf tin, smoothing the top with a spatula. Slide it into the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. To check if it’s ready, insert a skewer into the center—if it comes out clean, your loaf is perfectly baked.

Step 6: Make the Coffee Buttercream Icing

While the cake cools, start on the frosting. Cream together 90 g of butter and 180 g of icing sugar until fluffy and pale. Then whisk in 1 tbsp of instant coffee dissolved in water or coffee essence and 1 tbsp of milk, if desired, until the buttercream is smooth and spreads easily.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate

Once the loaf is completely cool, generously spread the coffee buttercream on top. Finish by scattering a handful of chopped walnuts over the icing for a beautiful and tasty garnish.

How to Serve Coffee and Walnut Loaf Cake Recipe

A golden brown rectangular loaf cake with a slightly cracked top, placed on crumpled white parchment paper over a white marbled surface. To the top right of the loaf, there is a small white bowl filled with walnut halves. Below the bowl, there is a small white bowl containing a light beige creamy spread, and a wooden-handled spoon resting beside it with the spread on it. In the bottom right corner, there is a white cup filled with black coffee sitting on a small beige coaster, next to a couple of golden coffee pods. To the left, there is a stack of white plates with wooden chopsticks resting on top. Soft cream-colored cloth is casually draped in the right background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Beyond the classic chopped walnuts, try adding a dusting of cocoa powder or a few whole coffee beans for a charming presentation. Fresh edible flowers can also brighten the loaf beautifully for a special touch.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you prefer drinks, a creamy latte or rich hot chocolate makes an excellent companion to the coffee-infused loaf.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the loaf into thick, rustic pieces and serve on a wooden board alongside small jars of honey and butter for guests to customize their slices. Alternatively, cut into cubes and offer toothpicks as a delightful coffee table treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Coffee and Walnut Loaf Cake Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It will stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days when stored at room temperature.

Freezing

This cake freezes wonderfully. Wrap individual slices in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for effortless indulgence on busy days.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy a warm slice, simply microwave a piece for 15 to 20 seconds or warm gently in a low oven. The buttercream will soften slightly, making each bite heavenly.

FAQs

Can I use ground coffee instead of instant coffee in this recipe?

Instant coffee dissolves easily and disperses flavor uniformly in the batter and icing. Ground coffee is best avoided here, as it can create a gritty texture. However, espresso powder can be a suitable substitute if you want a bolder coffee flavor.

Is it necessary to use self-raising flour?

Self-raising flour contains baking powder which helps the cake rise. If you only have plain flour, simply add 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder to every 200 g of flour to achieve the same lightness.

Can I replace walnuts with another nut?

Absolutely! Pecans or hazelnuts make excellent alternatives and offer a slightly different flavor profile that still complements the coffee beautifully.

How do I prevent the buttercream from being too runny?

If your buttercream is too soft, chill it in the fridge for a few minutes. Alternatively, reduce the milk slightly or add more sifted icing sugar to thicken the consistency to your liking.

Is this cake suitable for making into cupcakes?

Yes! The batter works wonderfully in cupcake tins. Just adjust the baking time to around 20 minutes and always check for doneness with a skewer to avoid overbaking.

Final Thoughts

This Coffee and Walnut Loaf Cake Recipe is truly a treasure worth baking whenever you want to impress or simply treat yourself. Its moist crumb, rich coffee flavor, and buttery walnut crunch come together in perfect harmony, topped off with an irresistible coffee buttercream. I can’t wait for you to hear the lovely aroma wafting from your kitchen and share those first bites with your loved ones. Give this recipe a go—you might just find your new go-to cake!