If you’re a fan of rich, nutty flavors with a hint of coffee, then this Coffee and Walnut Cake Mary Berry style is a must-try. Inspired by the baking legend Mary Berry, this classic British cake is light, moist, and perfectly balanced between sweetness and bitterness.
Mary Berry has long been a household name in baking, and her version of this traditional cake has won hearts across the UK. The combination of ground walnuts, a deep coffee essence, and silky buttercream frosting creates an irresistible treat. Whether you’re baking for an afternoon tea, a special occasion, or simply craving something indulgent, this recipe delivers perfection every time.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make a flawless Coffee and Walnut Cake step by step, along with expert tips, decoration ideas, and storage advice. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients List
Before you start, gather all the ingredients for both the cake and the buttercream. Using quality ingredients ensures a deliciously moist sponge with a smooth, creamy frosting.
For the Cake
Ingredient | Quantity |
Unsalted butter (softened) | 225g (8 oz) |
Caster sugar | 225g (8 oz) |
Self-raising flour | 225g (8 oz) |
Baking powder | 1 tsp |
Eggs (large) | 4 |
Instant coffee (dissolved in 1 tbsp hot water) | 2 tbsp |
Walnuts (chopped) | 75g (2.5 oz) |
For the Coffee Buttercream Frosting
Ingredient | Quantity |
Unsalted butter (softened) | 125g (4.5 oz) |
Icing sugar (sifted) | 250g (9 oz) |
Instant coffee (dissolved in 1 tbsp hot water) | 1 tbsp |
Walnuts (for decoration) | 8-10 halves |
Optional Variations
- For a stronger coffee flavor, increase the coffee amount slightly in both the cake and frosting.
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts.
- For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter substitute.
Equipments
Having the right tools makes the process smoother and ensures professional results. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 x 20cm (8-inch) round cake tins – Greased and lined with parchment paper.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk – To cream butter and sugar for a light texture.
- Mixing bowls – For preparing the batter and frosting.
- Spatula – For even mixing and spreading buttercream.
- Cooling rack – Allows the cake to cool completely before frosting.
- Piping bag (optional) – For decorative buttercream swirls.
Instructions
Follow this easy step-by-step guide to bake a perfectly moist Coffee and Walnut Cake, Mary Berry style.
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F / Gas mark 4. Grease and line two 20cm (8-inch) round cake tins with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and caster sugar until pale and fluffy. An electric mixer makes this process quicker.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps incorporate air for a light sponge.
- Dissolve the instant coffee in 1 tablespoon of hot water, then stir it into the batter for a rich coffee flavor.
- Sift in the self-raising flour and baking powder, then fold gently using a spatula to keep the air in the batter.
- Stir in the chopped walnuts, ensuring even distribution.
Step 2: Baking the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared tins. Use a spatula to smooth the tops.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. The cakes should spring back when lightly pressed.
- To check doneness, insert a skewer into the center—if it comes out clean, the cakes are ready.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the tins for 5 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Making the Coffee Buttercream Frosting
Step 1: Preparing the Buttercream
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add sifted icing sugar, beating well after each addition to prevent lumps.
- Dissolve 1 tablespoon of instant coffee in 1 tablespoon of hot water, then add it to the buttercream. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Step 2: Adjusting the Consistency
- If the buttercream is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk to loosen it.
- If it’s too soft, chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before using.
Assembling the Cake
- Place one sponge layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of coffee buttercream over the surface.
- Place the second sponge on top and press down gently to ensure it sticks.
- Cover the top of the cake with buttercream and use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Decorate with walnut halves arranged neatly on top.
Decoration Ideas
While Mary Berry’s recipe keeps it simple, here are extra decoration ideas to elevate your cake:
Decoration Idea | Description |
Chocolate Drizzle | Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cake for contrast. |
Caramelized Walnuts | Coat walnuts in caramelized sugar for a glossy finish. |
Coffee Bean Garnish | Place whole coffee beans for an elegant look. |
Piped Buttercream Swirls | Use a piping bag for a decorative edge. |
Serving Suggestions
- Best served with: A hot cup of coffee or Earl Grey tea for a classic pairing.
- Ideal occasions: Afternoon tea, birthdays, or as a comforting weekend bake.
- Portion size: This recipe yields 8-10 slices.
“A slice of coffee and walnut cake is a hug in cake form – perfect for sharing with loved ones!”
Storage Tips
To keep your cake fresh, follow these storage methods:
Storage Method | How Long It Lasts |
At Room Temperature | 3 days in an airtight container. |
In the Fridge | Up to 5 days (bring to room temp before serving). |
Freezing (Unfrosted Layers) | Up to 3 months, wrapped in cling film. |
Tip: Avoid refrigerating a fully frosted cake unless necessary, as it can dry out the sponge.
Common Mistakes & Troubleshooting
Even experienced bakers can run into issues! Here’s how to fix common problems:
Issue | Cause | Solution |
Cake is too dry | Overbaking | Reduce bake time & check early. |
Sponge didn’t rise well | Old baking powder or overmixing | Use fresh baking powder & fold batter gently. |
Buttercream is too runny | Butter too soft or warm kitchen | Chill buttercream in the fridge before using. |
Cake stuck to tin | Didn’t grease properly | Always grease and line tins with parchment paper. |
Conclusion
There you have it—Mary Berry’s classic Coffee and Walnut Cake, made simple! This cake is a perfect balance of nutty richness and coffee intensity, ideal for coffee lovers and afternoon tea enthusiasts alike.
Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! If you enjoyed this guide, share it with fellow bakers or leave a comment below with your baking experience.
Happy baking! 🍰☕
