When the leaves start to turn and the crisp autumn air sets in, I can’t help but crave something warm and comforting from the oven. That’s how I discovered my love for this Maple Walnut Coffee Cake. The moment I pull it from the oven, I’m enveloped in an irresistible blend of maple sweetness and nutty crunch that immediately fills my kitchen with a welcoming aroma.
This delightful coffee cake comes together in a breeze, requiring no mixer—perfect for those busy mornings or cozy afternoons when you just want to whip up something special without the fuss. With its perfectly moist texture and a golden, buttery streusel topping, it’s become my go-to choice for brunches, holiday gatherings, or simply indulging with a hot cup of coffee. Trust me; once you take a bite, you’ll want to savor this seasonal treat again and again!
Why is Maple Walnut Coffee Cake a Must-Try?
Heavenly Aroma: The moment this cake hits the oven, your kitchen transforms into a cozy cafe, filled with the enticing scents of maple and walnuts.
No Mixer Needed: With just a few bowls and a spoon, this recipe makes baking accessible for everyone, from novice bakers to seasoned chefs.
Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, it pairs beautifully with coffee or tea.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, this coffee cake will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
Perfectly Moist: Thanks to ingredients like sour cream and butter, each slice is incredibly light and fluffy, making it a delightful treat that’s hard to resist!
Maple Walnut Coffee Cake Ingredients
For the Coffee Cake
• Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture; can replace with granulated sugar, but flavor will vary.
• All-Purpose Flour – The main structure component for the cake; no substitutions needed without altering the texture significantly.
• California Walnuts – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; pecans can be used instead for a different taste.
• Ground Cinnamon – Enhances warmth and spice notes; it’s optional, but it truly complements the maple taste.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; vegetable oil can be substituted for a dairy-free option.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential for lift; do not omit or substitute unless following specific recipe adjustments.
• Fine Sea Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; regular table salt works as a substitute.
• Maple Syrup – The star ingredient that imparts a distinct maple flavor, key to the recipe; using 100% pure maple syrup is advised for the best flavor.
• Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake tender and moist; can substitute with melted coconut oil if desired.
• Whole Milk – Adds moisture and richness; can replace with any non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk.
• Eggs – Provide structure and moisture; flax eggs can be used for a vegan alternative.
• Maple Extract – Optional for an enhanced maple flavor; without it, the maple taste will be milder.
• Sour Cream – Adds moisture and creates a tender crumb; plain yogurt can also work as a substitute.
• Powdered Sugar – Used for the icing; no substitutions as it affects the icing’s quality.
For the Icing
• Powdered Sugar – Essential for creating a sweet, smooth icing that complements the coffee cake; no substitutions will maintain the intended sweetness and texture.
• Maple Syrup – Drizzled over the warm cake for extra maple goodness; it ties the flavors together beautifully, making the Maple Walnut Coffee Cake even more delightful!
How to Make Maple Walnut Coffee Cake
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly prepare an 8-inch square pan with nonstick cooking spray. This will ensure your cake releases easily when baked to perfection.
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Mix the streusel topping by combining light brown sugar, flour, walnuts, ground cinnamon, and melted butter in a small bowl. Stir until crumbly; this will create a deliciously crunchy layer on top.
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Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl by whisking together flour, baking powder, baking soda, fine sea salt, brown sugar, and walnuts. This creates a solid base for your cake.
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Blend the wet ingredients in a separate bowl by whisking together maple syrup, vegetable oil, milk, eggs, and optional maple extract. Stir in the sour cream for that extra moisture and richness.
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Create a well in the dry mix and pour in the wet ingredients. Gently stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix—this keeps your cake fluffy and light.
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Layer half of the batter in the prepared pan, followed by half of the streusel mixture. Add the remaining batter on top, finishing with the rest of the streusel to create a beautiful topping.
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Bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow it to cool in the pan for 15 minutes to set.
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Drizzle a delicious icing made from powdered sugar and maple syrup over the warm cake before serving. This adds just the right touch of sweetness to each slice!
Optional: Top with additional walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra special touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Maple Walnut Coffee Cake
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps the cake moist and fresh, ready for your morning coffee!
- Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can keep the cake in the refrigerator for about a week, but be sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy your Maple Walnut Coffee Cake, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm up slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a delightful treat!
Maple Walnut Coffee Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful coffee cake recipe; you can easily tailor it to your taste!
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Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts to enjoy a delicious nut-free version without sacrificing flavor.
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Pecans: Substitute walnuts with pecans for a buttery, softer nut flavor that adds a unique twist.
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Chocolate Chips: Add a handful of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a sweet, decadent surprise throughout the cake.
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Dried Fruits: Toss in some dried cranberries or cherries to provide a delightful chewiness and tart flavor contrast.
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Spice Boost: Enhance the warm flavors by incorporating a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon for a cozy autumn taste.
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Coconut Flavor: Mix in shredded coconut to the batter or top it with coconut flakes before baking for tropical flair.
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Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use almond milk to craft a wholesome vegan version of this treat.
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Maple Variations: Experiment with different flavored syrups like hazelnut or caramel for a fun spin on the traditional maple experience.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a Maple Walnut Coffee Cake that’s uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Maple Walnut Coffee Cake?
Indulging in a slice of warm coffee cake evokes the comforting aromas of fall, making it come alive when paired with delightful accompaniments.
- Fresh Fruit Medley: A mix of seasonal fruits like apples and pears adds a refreshing contrast to the rich maple flavor, perfect for balancing sweetness.
- Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a luscious, airy texture that enhances the moistness of the cake and elevates each bite.
- Spiced Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai or cinnamon-infused tea complements the flavors of the cake, creating a cozy moment to savor.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Enhance the flavor by drizzling extra maple syrup on top; it’s like doubling the treat in a sweet, rich way.
- Cream Cheese Icing: A tangy cream cheese frosting can elevate your coffee cake into a decadent dessert, balancing the sweetness with its creamy texture.
- Coffee: A robust cup of freshly brewed coffee is the classic pairing, its deep notes countering the sweetness and bringing a comforting start to your day.
- Nuts on Top: To maintain the walnut theme, sprinkle extra chopped walnuts on top after icing for an added crunch and nutty finish.
- Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream: As a delightful twist, serve warm slices over vanilla ice cream, letting it melt slightly for a delicious temperature contrast.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free option, top with airy coconut whipped cream for a tropical hint that contrasts beautifully with the warm spices.
- Hot Chocolate: For a rich treat, pair with a mug of homemade hot chocolate, adding a touch of indulgence to your coffee cake experience.
Expert Tips for Maple Walnut Coffee Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing to achieve ultimate moisture in your Maple Walnut Coffee Cake.
- Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter; this keeps the cake light and fluffy. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
- Double Batch Caution: If you’re doubling the recipe, keep an eye on baking time. Check for doneness at the 40-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
- Streusel Crunch: For added crunch, use slightly larger pieces of walnuts in the streusel topping, so they hold up better during baking.
- Icing Finish: Drizzle the icing over the cake while it’s still warm, allowing it to soak in slightly and create a deliciously sweet crust.
Make Ahead Options
These Maple Walnut Coffee Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing your dry and wet ingredients separately, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to combine and bake. For even more convenience, pre-make the streusel topping and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply mix the wet and dry ingredients, layer them in the pan with the streusel, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll still savor that warm, delightful coffee cake with minimal effort on your busy morning!
Maple Walnut Coffee Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe walnuts for the Maple Walnut Coffee Cake?
Absolutely! When selecting walnuts, look for fresh, plump nuts with no dark spots or signs of rancidity. A good way to check freshness is to smell them—if they have an off or bitter odor, they may not be fresh. For the best flavor in your coffee cake, I recommend using California walnuts, known for their rich taste and superior quality.
What’s the best way to store Maple Walnut Coffee Cake?
To keep your Maple Walnut Coffee Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. You want it to stay moist and delicious! If you won’t finish it in that time, consider refrigerating it for about a week, just remember to wrap it well to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze the Maple Walnut Coffee Cake?
Yes, freezing is a great option! To freeze, wrap slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This method protects against freezer burn. Your coffee cake can stay fresh for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
Why is my Maple Walnut Coffee Cake dense or tough?
Very common! If your cake turns out dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter. Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined to maintain that light, fluffy texture. Also, ensure that your ingredients are at room temperature, as this helps with achieving the ideal consistency.
Can I make this Maple Walnut Coffee Cake dairy-free?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, substitute the unsalted butter with vegetable oil or melted coconut oil. You can also replace whole milk with almond milk or oat milk, and for the eggs, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) for each egg needed. This way, everyone can indulge in this delightful treat!
Maple Walnut Coffee Cake That Will Wow Your Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly prepare an 8-inch square pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- Mix the streusel topping by combining light brown sugar, flour, walnuts, ground cinnamon, and melted butter in a small bowl.
- Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl by whisking together flour, baking powder, baking soda, fine sea salt, brown sugar, and walnuts.
- Blend the wet ingredients in a separate bowl by whisking together maple syrup, vegetable oil, milk, eggs, and optional maple extract.
- Create a well in the dry mix and pour in the wet ingredients, then gently stir until just combined.
- Layer half of the batter in the prepared pan, followed by half of the streusel mixture. Add the remaining batter on top, finishing with the rest of the streusel.
- Bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Drizzle the icing made from powdered sugar and maple syrup over the warm cake before serving.