Grandma's secret New England Walnut Coffee Cake recipe has been a cherished tradition in our family for generations. This moist, delicious cake filled with walnuts and topped with a sweet, crumbly streusel is a beloved comfort food that evokes warm, nostalgic memories of childhood and family gatherings. Whether it's for a special occasion or a simple afternoon treat, this cake never fails to bring smiles and satisfaction. Here’s how you can make this timeless classic at home:
Ingredients for the Cake:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1⁄4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 1⁄2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1⁄2 cup of whole milk
- 1 cup of chopped walnuts
Ingredients for the Streusel:
- 1⁄2 cup of brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- 1⁄4 cup of cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1⁄2 cup of chopped walnuts
Instructions:
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Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or a similar sized baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
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Prepare the Streusel:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and walnuts. Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to blend in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set this mixture aside.
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Mix the Cake Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the milk to the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until incorporated. Fold in the sour cream gently until the batter is smooth. Then, stir in the walnuts.
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Assemble the Cake:
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle half of the streusel mixture over the top. Add the remaining batter, smoothing it out, and then finish with the rest of the streusel.
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Bake:
Place the cake in the oven and bake for about 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it; you don’t want to overbake this delicate treat.
🌟 Note: To check for doneness, a toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
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Cool and Serve:
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before removing the sides of the springform pan. Serve the cake slightly warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
As you bring this New England Walnut Coffee Cake to your table, you'll find that its comforting simplicity and heartwarming taste can transform any gathering into a special occasion. It's not just about the flavors but the love and memories baked into each slice. This cake brings people together, reminding us of our roots and the joy of shared meals.
Can I use another type of nut instead of walnuts?
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Yes, while walnuts are traditional, you can substitute pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor profile in your New England Walnut Coffee Cake.
How long does this cake keep?
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If stored in an airtight container, the cake can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. For best texture, warm it slightly before serving if it has been refrigerated.
Can I freeze this cake?
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Absolutely! You can freeze this cake either whole or in slices. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Is there a healthier version of this recipe?
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To make this cake healthier, consider using whole wheat flour or a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour, reducing sugar by up to a third, or using applesauce instead of butter for moisture. However, these changes might alter the texture and flavor slightly.
What can I serve with this cake?
+The New England Walnut Coffee Cake pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. For a more indulgent treat, serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
As you bring this New England Walnut Coffee Cake to your table, you’ll find that its comforting simplicity and heartwarming taste can transform any gathering into a special occasion. It’s not just about the flavors but the love and memories baked into each slice. This cake brings people together, reminding us of our roots and the joy of shared meals.
