Coffee And Walnut Loaf

There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. For me, there’s no better scent than that of a warm, nutty Coffee and Walnut Loaf. It harks back to soothing Sunday afternoons spent with family, cups of strong coffee in hand, and laughter echoing through the air. This loaf is not just a recipe; it’s a nostalgia-filled joy that merges the rich, robust flavor of coffee with the crunchiness of walnuts in a luscious, fluffy cake. I’m here to guide you on how to recreate that wonderful experience in your very own kitchen.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 15 minutes
• Active Cooking: 60 minutes
• Total Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Portion Size: 8 slices
• Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: Approx. 300
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 43g
• Fats: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 20g
• Sodium: 150mg

Why You’ll Love This Coffee And Walnut Loaf

This Coffee and Walnut Loaf is a delightful paradox—it’s both decadent and comforting. The slight bitterness of the brewed coffee harmonizes beautifully with the natural sweetness of sugar, while the toasted walnuts add a satisfying crunch in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying a slice for breakfast, pairing it with an afternoon cup of tea, or serving it at gatherings, this loaf is incredibly versatile. It’s a dessert that invites you to linger, savor, and reminisce.

The Complete Cooking Journey

As you embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll find that every step brings you closer to that delicious finished product. With each mix, fold, and bake, you can practically hear the symphony of flavors coming together. So, grab your measuring spoons and let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• 250g all-purpose flour
• 200g sugar
• 100g unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 200ml brewed coffee, cooled
• 100g walnuts, chopped
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt

Method:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a loaf pan to ensure your wonderful creation doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This incorporates air into your batter, helping it rise beautifully.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step is crucial for achieving a uniform batter and a moist loaf.

Step 4: Incorporate the Brewed Coffee

Stir in the cooled coffee, allowing its rich flavor to meld with the creamed butter and sugar.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your loaf tender.

Step 6: Fold in the Walnuts

Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Pour and Smooth

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula for an even bake.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This is the moment when the house fills with the warm, inviting scent of coffee.

Step 9: Cooling Time

Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key—this will help you slice the loaf without crumbling!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This Coffee and Walnut Loaf shines on its own, but pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It also complements a steaming cup of coffee or a glass of milk perfectly—ideal for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up!

Storage & Leftovers Guide

To store, wrap your loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days at room temperature, or you can store it in the fridge for about a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just ensure it’s well wrapped!

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

• Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and blending.
• Toast your walnuts before adding them to the batter to enhance their flavor.
• If you’d like an extra coffee kick, try folding in some coffee granules into the batter for a stronger taste.

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

Feeling adventurous? Switch it up by incorporating chocolate chips for a mocha twist or add a dash of cinnamon for warmth. You can even experiment with different nuts such as pecans or hazelnuts.

Reader Questions & Solutions

• Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee? Yes, just dissolve it in hot water and cool it before adding to the mixture.
• Why is my loaf too dense? This often happens from overmixing the batter or not using the right ratio of liquid to dry ingredients.
• How can I make it gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
• What if my loaf sinks in the middle? This could be due to underbaking—make sure to check for doneness with a toothpick.
• Can I add frosting? Absolutely! A light coffee glaze or cream cheese frosting can elevate this loaf to another level.

Wrapping Up

Baking this Coffee and Walnut Loaf is more than just a kitchen task; it’s a chance to create a delicious, comforting treat that brings people together. As you savor each slice, remember the love and warmth baked within, and embrace the joy it brings. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some memories one loaf at a time! Happy baking!

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