Walnut Cake with Syrup: A Delicious Delight
Welcome to the wonderful world of Walnut Cake with Syrup! This delightful dessert is not just a treat for your taste buds, but it also holds a special place in various cultures. Walnut Cake is loved in many parts of the world, especially in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, where walnuts are a popular ingredient.
This recipe has a rich history and is often associated with celebrations and family gatherings. People enjoy making it for birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy afternoon with friends. The combination of fluffy cake with a sweet, sticky syrup makes this dessert absolutely irresistible.
One of the reasons this Walnut Cake is so popular is its wonderful flavor and texture. The crunchiness of the walnuts pairs perfectly with the moist cake and sweet syrup, creating a delightful experience with every bite!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Butter (softened) | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Chopped walnuts | 1 cup |
| Water | 1 cup (for syrup) |
| Sugar (for syrup) | 1 cup |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
Note: You can substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour if you have dietary restrictions. Also, feel free to use honey instead of sugar for a healthier syrup!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir well to mix.
- Beat the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Then fold in the chopped walnuts gently.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Syrup: While the cake is baking, make the syrup. In a saucepan, bring the water and sugar to a boil, stirring until dissolved. Remove from heat and add lemon juice. Let it cool slightly.
- Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then, poke holes in the top of the cake using a toothpick and pour the warm syrup over it.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to absorb the syrup for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 300 | 15% |
| Protein | 6g | 12% |
| Carbohydrates | 45g | 15% |
| Fats | 12g | 18% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugars | 26g | N/A |
Tips and Tricks
- Walnuts: Toast your walnuts lightly before adding them to the batter for an enhanced flavor.
- Storage: Keep your Walnut Cake covered at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate it for a week.
- Serve Warm: For an extra special treat, serve your cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Yes! You can use pecans or almonds as a substitute for walnuts. Just chop them up and follow the recipe as is.
What can I add to the syrup for more flavor?
Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the syrup for an extra kick.
How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day ahead and add the syrup just before serving to keep it fresh.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Walnut Cake with Syrup is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products.
Can I freeze the walnut cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw it in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy it.
What can I serve with Walnut Cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh fruit.
How do I make the cake gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the flour package for the best results.
What if I don’t have lemon juice?
If you don’t have lemon juice, you can use vinegar as an alternative, but it will slightly change the flavor.
Can I make this cake in a bundt pan?
Yes, you can! Just remember to adjust the baking time as it may take longer to cook through in a bundt pan.
Is the syrup necessary?
The syrup adds moisture and sweetness to the cake, but if you prefer, you can skip it and enjoy the cake on its own!
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking this delicious Walnut Cake with Syrup. Enjoy every moment of baking and, of course, eating it!
