Mary Berry's Coffee and Walnut Cake: A Classic Recipe

Mary Berry's Coffee and Walnut Cake is a timeless classic, loved for its moist texture, rich coffee flavor, and the delightful crunch of walnuts. This recipe delivers a perfectly balanced cake, ideal for any occasion – from afternoon tea to a celebratory gathering. Let's delve into the details of this delectable dessert and explore how to bake it to perfection.

Ingredients: A Blend of Classic Flavors

This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it accessible to even beginner bakers. Here's what you'll need:

• For the Cake:
  • 175g (6oz) softened butter
  • 175g (6oz) caster sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 175g (6oz) self-raising flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tbsp strong, freshly brewed coffee, cooled
  • 100g (3½oz) walnuts, roughly chopped
• For the Buttercream Frosting:
  • 100g (3½oz) softened butter
  • 200g (7oz) icing sugar
  • 1-2 tbsp strong, freshly brewed coffee, cooled
  • Extra walnuts, for decoration (optional)

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions: Achieving Perfection

Follow these steps carefully to achieve Mary Berry's signature moist and flavorful cake:

1. Preparing the Batter: A Foundation for Flavor

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/Gas Mark 4). Grease and flour two 20cm (8 inch) sandwich tins. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
2. Cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporates air, leading to a lighter cake. Use an electric mixer for best results.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. If the mixture curdles, add a spoonful of flour to stabilize it.
4. Gently fold in the sieved flour and baking powder. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake.
5. Stir in the cooled coffee and chopped walnuts. The cooled coffee is crucial to prevent the batter from becoming too runny.

2. Baking the Cake: Evenly and Perfectly

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared tins.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cakes.
3. Let the cakes cool in the tins for a few minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from crumbling.

3. Making the Buttercream Frosting: The Finishing Touch

1. While the cakes cool, prepare the buttercream frosting. Beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the icing sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
3. Add the cooled coffee, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

4. Assembling the Cake: Layers of Delight

1. Once the cakes are completely cool, level the tops if necessary.
2. Spread a generous layer of buttercream frosting onto one cake layer.
3. Top with the second cake layer and frost the entire cake with the remaining buttercream.
4. Decorate with extra chopped walnuts, if desired.

Tips and Variations: Elevate Your Baking Game

• Coffee Choice: Using a strong, freshly brewed coffee significantly enhances the flavor of the cake. Experiment with different coffee beans for varying nuances.
• Walnut Variations: Try adding other nuts like pecans or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion: A Deliciously Rewarding Bake

Mary Berry's Coffee and Walnut Cake is a rewarding bake that delivers delicious results. Following these steps carefully will ensure you create a moist, flavorful, and beautifully frosted cake that's sure to impress. Enjoy!