Mary Berry Coffee And Walnut Cake

Name: Mary Berry's Coffee and Walnut Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 225g self-raising flour; 225g caster sugar; 225g butter, softened; 1 tsp baking powder; 4 large eggs; 2 tbsp instant coffee granules; 75g walnuts, chopped; For the buttercream:; 175g butter, softened; 350g icing sugar, sifted; 2 tbsp instant coffee granules; Walnut halves, to decorate

Discover the delightful blend of flavors in Mary Berry's Coffee and Walnut Cake, a classic dessert that combines the rich aroma of coffee with the crunchiness of walnuts, crowned with a silky coffee icing for a decadent treat. Perfect for any celebration or a cozy afternoon tea, this cake is sure to impress.

Mary Berry's Coffee and Walnut Cake: A Rich and Decadent Delight

Cultural or Historical Context

The Coffee and Walnut Cake is a quintessential British dessert known for its moist, crunchy texture and exquisite coffee flavor. Mary Berry, a revered figure in British baking, offers her own rendition of this traditional cake, making it a favorite in households and afternoon tea menus across the UK.

Ingredients List

To make this cake, you'll need the following:

For the Sponge:
- 225g self-raising flour
- 225g softened unsalted butter
- 225g sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 45g chopped walnuts
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee mixed with 2 tablespoons of hot water
For the Coffee Buttercream Icing:
- 450g icing sugar
- 150g softened unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons instant coffee mixed with 1 tablespoon water
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Walnut halves for decoration

Preparation Instructions

Preheat your oven and prepare your cake tins.
Mix the cake ingredients until smooth and divide the batter between the tins.
Bake until golden and let cool before removing from tins.
For the icing, blend the coffee mixture with butter and icing sugar until fluffy.
Assemble the cake by spreading buttercream between the layers and on top, then decorate with walnut halves.

Storage and Reheating

The assembled cake is best enjoyed at room temperature to maintain its texture and flavors. If you need to store it, keep it in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Avoid refrigerating as it can dry out the sponge. For longer storage, consider freezing the sponges without icing.

Nutritional Information

A slice of Mary Berry's Coffee and Walnut Cake is rich in flavors and calories, with each serving providing an indulgent mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. The exact nutritional values can vary based on the ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use gluten-free flour for this cake? While the original recipe doesn't specify gluten-free alternatives, substituting gluten-free flour for self-raising flour is generally possible, though it may slightly alter the texture of the cake.
How do I make my cake moister? Adding a bit of sour cream or yogurt to the batter can enhance the cake's moisture. Additionally, applying a simple syrup to the cake layers before assembling can also help.

Final Thoughts or Serving Suggestions

Mary Berry's Coffee and Walnut Cake is a testament to the beauty of traditional British baking. Serve it with a cup of tea or coffee for a truly delightful experience. The rich flavors and moist texture make it a perfect dessert for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.

Original recipe by Mary Berry, renowned for her contributions to British baking and her ability to make classic recipes accessible to everyone. For more details and precise measurements, visit the sources like My Gorgeous Recipes, Rachel's Recipe Pantry, and The Happy Foodie.