If you love a rich, moist cake with a strong coffee flavor, this Hairy Bikers Coffee And Walnut Cake Recipe is perfect for you.
It combines soft sponge, crunchy walnuts and a smooth coffee buttercream that melts in your mouth. This recipe is easy to follow, uses simple ingredients and will impress everyone at your table.
Whether for a birthday, tea time or just a treat, learning how to make Hairy Bikers Coffee And Walnut Cake is a joy.
Why I Love Making This Hairy Bikers Coffee And Walnut Cake
I love making this Hairy Bikers Coffee And Walnut Cake because it fills my kitchen with a wonderful coffee aroma. The combination of walnuts and coffee is simply irresistible.
It’s not too sweet and always has a soft, moist texture. Sharing this cake with family and friends always brings smiles.
It feels like a small celebration every time I slice it. The recipe is forgiving and perfect for home bakers who want impressive results without stress.
Equipment List
- 2 round 8-inch cake tins
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Saucepan
- Cooling rack
- Serrated knife for leveling
Recipe Overview
- Recipe Name: Hairy Bikers Coffee And Walnut Cake
- Servings: 10–12
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 35–40 mins
- Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: British
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
Ingredients You Need for Hairy Bikers Coffee And Walnut Cake
For the Cake:
- 225g unsalted butter, softened
- 225g caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 225g self-raising flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 3 tbsp strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 100g chopped walnuts
For the Coffee Buttercream:
- 150g unsalted butter, softened
- 300g icing sugar
- 2 tbsp strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 50g chopped walnuts for decoration
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas 4. Grease the cake tins and line with parchment paper. This ensures the cake won’t stick.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. This usually takes 3–4 minutes using an electric mixer.
3. Add the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. If the mixture starts to curdle, add a spoon of flour to stabilize it.
4. Fold in Flour and Baking Powder
Sift the flour and baking powder together. Gently fold into the mixture using a spatula to keep it light and airy.
5. Add Coffee and Walnuts
Stir in the cooled coffee and chopped walnuts. Make sure they are evenly distributed without overmixing the batter.
6. Divide the Batter
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake tins. Smooth the top with a spatula so it cooks evenly.
7. Bake the Cakes
Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes. Check with a skewer; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
8. Cool the Cakes
Allow the cakes to cool in the tins for 10 minutes. Then remove and place on a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Prepare the Coffee Buttercream
Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add icing sugar, then mix in the cooled coffee. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
10. Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a plate. Spread half of the buttercream evenly on top. Place the second layer and cover the cake with remaining buttercream.
11. Decorate with Walnuts
Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for a crunchy, decorative finish. This adds texture and enhances the walnut flavor.
Read More: Twinkie Cake Recipe
Expert Tips & Variations
- Use fresh, strong coffee for the best flavor.
- Toast walnuts lightly for extra aroma.
- For a mocha twist, add 1 tsp cocoa powder to the buttercream.
- You can make this cake a day ahead; the flavors improve overnight.
- Substitute half of the butter with mascarpone for a creamier texture.
History or Fun Fact About the Dish
Coffee and walnut cake is a classic British teatime treat. Its popularity grew in the 20th century, and it is now a staple in bakeries.
The Hairy Bikers version is known for its rich flavor and simple, foolproof recipe. The combination of coffee and nuts has been cherished in Europe for centuries.
Pairings & Complementary Recipes
This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Serve it alongside vanilla ice cream or a scoop of custard for extra indulgence.
Fresh berries also complement the rich coffee flavor. You can also slice it thinly and serve with afternoon sandwiches for a traditional British tea experience.
Occasion or Event Ideas
Hairy Bikers Coffee And Walnut Cake is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or casual afternoon tea. It’s also a fantastic dessert for family gatherings or potlucks.
Its rich flavor makes it ideal for festive celebrations like Christmas or Easter. Even a small treat on a weekday can brighten your day.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to a week, but allow it to reach room temperature before serving.
- Freeze for up to 2 months; defrost in the fridge overnight.
- Avoid microwaving directly; warm slices in a low oven for best results.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 50 g |
| Sugars | 30 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
Health Benefits
While this cake is a treat and high in calories, it does provide some nutrition from walnuts. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
Coffee contains antioxidants as well and can provide a small energy boost. Moderation is key, but enjoying this cake occasionally is perfectly fine.
Hairy Bikers Coffee And Walnut Cake Recipe
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 225 g unsalted butter softened
- 225 g caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 225 g self-raising flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 3 tbsp strong brewed coffee cooled
- 100 g chopped walnuts
For the Coffee Buttercream:
- 150 g unsalted butter softened
- 300 g icing sugar
- 2 tbsp strong brewed coffee cooled
- 50 g chopped walnuts for decoration
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas 4. Grease the cake tins and line with parchment paper. This ensures the cake won’t stick.
Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. This usually takes 3–4 minutes using an electric mixer.
Add the Eggs
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. If the mixture starts to curdle, add a spoon of flour to stabilize it.
Fold in Flour and Baking Powder
- Sift the flour and baking powder together. Gently fold into the mixture using a spatula to keep it light and airy.
Add Coffee and Walnuts
- Stir in the cooled coffee and chopped walnuts. Make sure they are evenly distributed without overmixing the batter.
Divide the Batter
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake tins. Smooth the top with a spatula so it cooks evenly.
Bake the Cakes
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes. Check with a skewer; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
Cool the Cakes
- Allow the cakes to cool in the tins for 10 minutes. Then remove and place on a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Coffee Buttercream
- Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add icing sugar, then mix in the cooled coffee. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a plate. Spread half of the buttercream evenly on top. Place the second layer and cover the cake with remaining buttercream.
Decorate with Walnuts
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for a crunchy, decorative finish. This adds texture and enhances the walnut flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh, strong coffee for the best flavor.
- Toast walnuts lightly for extra aroma.
- For a mocha twist, add 1 tsp cocoa powder to the buttercream.
- You can make this cake a day ahead; the flavors improve overnight.
- Substitute half of the butter with mascarpone for a creamier texture.
FAQs about Hairy Bikers Coffee And Walnut Cake
1. Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?
Yes, dissolve 2 tsp instant coffee in 3 tbsp hot water and let it cool before adding. The flavor will remain strong and rich.
2. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free mix. Make sure it includes a raising agent for a fluffy texture.
3. How long does the cake stay fresh?
The cake stays fresh for 3–4 days at room temperature. Refrigeration can extend its shelf life to a week.
4. Can I use another nut instead of walnuts?
Yes, pecans or almonds can be used. Toast them lightly for enhanced flavor and texture.
5. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely, the flavors improve when the cake rests overnight. Cover tightly with foil or a cake dome.
Final Thoughts
Hairy Bikers Coffee And Walnut Cake Recipe is a classic treat that everyone will love. Its rich coffee flavor, soft sponge and crunchy walnuts make it perfect for tea time or dessert.
Learning how to make Hairy Bikers Coffee And Walnut Cake is simple and rewarding. Once you try it, this recipe will become a favorite in your home.
Enjoy slicing a piece and sharing it with family or friends for a delightful treat every time.
Zoey Lane is the voice behind ZoeyCooks.com, where she shares comforting, home-tested recipes inspired by everyday cooking. She believes great food should be simple, approachable and enjoyable to make.