Walnut Bundt Cake with Coffee Glaze

This walnut bundt cake is a moist, tender dessert infused with the deep nuttiness of walnuts and topped with a rich coffee glaze. Beautifully presented in a bundt shape, it’s a perfect centerpiece for gatherings or a refined everyday treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually striking yet easy to prepare.

• The flavor combination of walnuts and coffee is classic and comforting.

• Moist and tender crumb with just the right amount of sweetness.

• The coffee glaze adds elegance and a hint of bold flavor.

• Stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Baking soda

• Salt

• Unsalted butter

• Granulated sugar

• Eggs

• Plain yogurt or sour cream

• Vanilla extract

• Finely chopped walnuts

• Brewed coffee (for the glaze)

• Powdered sugar (for the glaze)

• Additional walnuts for topping

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 175 °C (350 °F). Grease and flour a bundt pan thoroughly.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

5. Mix in the yogurt (or sour cream) until combined.

6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just incorporated.

7. Fold in the chopped walnuts.

8. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.

9. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

10. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

11. Prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and brewed coffee until smooth.

12. Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top and garnish with extra walnuts.

Servings and timing

Makes 12–14 slices.
Prep time: 15–20 minutes
Bake time: 45–55 minutes
Cool and glaze time: 30 minutes
Total time: approx. 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Use pecans or hazelnuts instead of walnuts.

• Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for added warmth.

• Substitute the coffee glaze with a chocolate or vanilla glaze.

• For a citrus twist, add lemon zest to the batter and use a lemon glaze.

• Fold in chocolate chips for added richness.

Storage/reheating

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerate for up to 5–6 days. Allow to come to room temperature before serving.

• To freeze, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

• To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds if desired.

FAQs

Can I make this bundt cake ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made a day in advance. In fact, the flavor develops more overnight.

Do I have to use a bundt pan?

A bundt pan gives the classic look and even baking, but you may use a tube pan or two loaf pans instead—adjust baking time accordingly.

Can I omit the glaze?

Yes, the cake is flavorful on its own. However, the glaze adds an elegant finish and extra moisture.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Grease and flour the pan thoroughly, or use baking spray that includes flour. Allow the cake to cool slightly before removing it.

What kind of coffee should I use for the glaze?

Use strong brewed coffee or espresso for the best flavor. Instant coffee dissolved in water also works.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, a neutral oil can be used, though butter provides a richer taste.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

How should I chop the walnuts?

Finely chop the walnuts so they distribute evenly in the batter without sinking.

Can I use buttermilk instead of yogurt or sour cream?

Yes, buttermilk can be used; it will slightly change the texture to be lighter.

Can I add dried fruit to the batter?

Yes, raisins or chopped dates pair well with walnuts and coffee flavors. Toss them in flour to prevent sinking.

Conclusion

This walnut bundt cake with coffee glaze is a dessert that balances elegance with homely charm. Whether served as a tea-time treat or a holiday dessert, it offers a nutty richness and aromatic glaze that elevate the classic bundt into something memorable. Easy to prepare and impressive to serve, it’s a reliable recipe you’ll return to often.

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