Looking for a cake that combines the richness of chocolate with the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts? This chocolate walnut cake is the answer. Moist, fudgy, and loaded with flavor, it’s the perfect dessert for gatherings, birthdays, holidays, or a luxurious everyday treat.
Walnuts add texture, healthy fats, and a deep nutty undertone that enhances the depth of the cocoa. Whether served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with ganache, this cake is simple to make but delivers bakery-level results.
Ingredients
This recipe yields one 9-inch round or square cake, serving 8 to 10 people.
Dry Ingredients
- One cup all-purpose flour
- Half cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- One teaspoon baking soda
- Half teaspoon baking powder
- Quarter teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- Two large eggs
- Three fourths cup granulated sugar
- Half cup brown sugar
- Half cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- One teaspoon vanilla extract
- Three fourths cup buttermilk (or milk with one teaspoon vinegar)
- Half cup hot water or brewed coffee (enhances chocolate flavor)
Add-Ins
- One cup chopped walnuts, lightly toasted
- Half cup chocolate chips (optional, for extra richness)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 30 to 35 minutes
- Cooling time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Grease and line a 9-inch round or square cake pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract and buttermilk. Mix well.
Step 4: Bring It Together
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Slowly pour in the hot water or coffee and stir gently to form a smooth, pourable batter.
Step 5: Add Walnuts and Chocolate
- Fold in the toasted walnuts and chocolate chips (if using) evenly throughout the batter.
Step 6: Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
- Dust the top with powdered sugar for a simple finish.
- Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with chocolate ganache or a coffee glaze for an elegant touch.
- Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or tea to complement the cake’s richness.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Slice (1 of 10) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Total Fat | 18 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 4 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 38 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sugars | 21 grams |
| Sodium | 220 milligrams |
Key Health Benefits:
- Walnuts provide heart-healthy omega-3 fats and antioxidants.
- Cocoa offers polyphenols that may support circulation and mood.
- Buttermilk adds calcium and a subtle tang that enhances flavor.
- Lower sugar content than many frosted cakes makes this a more balanced indulgence.
Tips for Best Results
- Toast the walnuts in a dry pan for 3 to 5 minutes before using to deepen their flavor.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate taste.
- Coffee (even if you do not like drinking it) intensifies the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.
Variations to Try
- Add a swirl of cream cheese filling before baking for a marbled effect.
- Substitute pecans or almonds for walnuts for a different nutty twist.
- Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a slightly floral flavor.
- Make it vegan by using dairy-free milk, oil, and egg substitutes.
Chocolate walnut cake is a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and indulgence. With its moist crumb, rich chocolate depth, and nutty crunch, it is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s simple enough to make on a weeknight and elegant enough to serve at a celebration.