Walnut Bundt Cake Recipe

Bundt cakes are known for their distinctive ring shape that allows a higher ratio of crust, and this walnut bundt cake incorporates the nutty crunch of walnuts for added texture and flavor. Not too sweet, with a moist crumb, it is a delightful dessert or a perfect accompaniment to afternoon tea.

Photos of Walnut Bundt Cake Recipe

The main ingredients for this recipe are easy to find in a regular supermarket. However, pay careful attention when buying walnuts. Walnuts are available in the baking aisle and there can be a difference in flavor depending on whether they are raw or roasted. For this recipe, raw walnuts are preferred but you can choose roasted for an added depth of flavor.

Ingredients for Walnut Bundt Cake

Unsalted butter: Gives the cake richness and flavor. It should be softened to room temperature for easier mixing.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the cake. Regular granulated sugar is used.

Brown sugar: Gives the cake a deeper, molasses-like flavor.

Eggs: Acts as a binder and gives the cake structure.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Flour: Provides the basic structure for the cake.

Baking powder: Leavens the cake, making it rise.

Salt: Balances the sweetness.

Walnuts: Gives the cake a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.

Whole milk: Adds moisture and aids in the cake's crumb structure.

One reader, Barret Greathouse says:

This walnut bundt cake recipe is a game-changer! The cake turned out moist and flavorful, and the walnuts added a delightful crunch. The instructions were easy to follow, and the end result was a hit with my family. I'll definitely be making this again!

Barret Greathouse

Techniques Required for Making a Walnut Bundt Cake

How to preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and allow it to heat up for at least 10-15 minutes before using it. This ensures that the oven is at the correct temperature for baking the walnut bundt cake.

How to cream the butter and sugars: In a stand mixer, beat the unsalted butter, sugar, and brown sugar together on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes and helps to incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake texture.

How to sift the dry ingredients: Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt to remove any lumps and aerate the mixture. This helps to ensure an even distribution of the leavening agents and prevents pockets of baking powder in the cake.

How to incorporate the dry ingredients and milk: Alternate adding the sifted dry ingredients and the whole milk into the stand mixer. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined after each addition. This method helps to prevent overmixing and ensures a tender crumb in the cake.

How to test for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake to check for doneness. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. If there is wet batter on the toothpick, continue baking and check again in a few minutes.

How to cool and remove the cake from the pan: Allow the cake to cool in the bundt pan for 20 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a cake plate. Then, invert it again to have the walnuts on top. This method helps to ensure that the cake releases from the pan without sticking and maintains its shape.

How To Make Walnut Bundt Cake

The richness and moistness of this bundt cake are made more tempting with the soft and earthy walnuts, making it the perfect teatime accompaniment.

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 15 minutes

Cool Time: 20 minutes

Total: 2 hours

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupunsalted butter,softened
1cupsugar
½cupbrown sugar,packed
4large eggs
1tbspvanilla extract
2½cupsflour
2tspbaking powder
½tspsalt
¾cupwalnuts,ground
1cupwhole milk
1cupwalnuts,chopped

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and spray a 12-cup bundt pan with baking spray.
Cream the butter, sugar, and brown sugar in stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.
Add in the eggs one at a time until well combined. Add in the vanilla extract.
Sift together the flour, baking powder and salt, then alternate adding with milk into the stand mixer, until just combined.
Add the ground walnuts and half the chopped walnuts until just combined.
Pour into bundt pan and top with the remaining walnuts.
Bake for 65 to 75 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool for 20 minutes before removing from pan by inverting over a cake plate. Invert again to have walnuts back on top.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 361.45kcal
Fat: 18.23g
Saturated Fat: 10.69g
Trans Fat: 0.63g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.83g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.32g
Carbohydrates: 43.97g
Fiber: 0.74g
Sugar: 23.82g
Protein: 5.68g
Cholesterol: 104.70mg
Sodium: 194.39mg
Calcium: 103.15mg
Potassium: 94.85mg
Iron: 0.76mg
Vitamin A: 165.42µg
Vitamin C: 0.01mg

Crucial Technique for Achieving the Perfect Texture

When preparing your walnuts for this recipe, consider toasting them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat before incorporating them into the batter. This will enhance their flavor and add a delightful crunch to your bundt cake. Just be sure to keep an eye on them as they toast, as nuts can burn quickly. Once they're fragrant and slightly golden, they're ready to be used.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Delicious Dessert

Plan ahead: Before starting the recipe, gather all the ingredients and equipment needed to avoid last-minute searches.

Multi-task: While the cake is baking, use the time to clean up the kitchen or prepare other dishes to maximize efficiency.

Organize: Arrange the ingredients and tools in a systematic manner to streamline the cooking process and minimize confusion.

Pre-measure: Measure and prepare all the ingredients in advance to avoid interruptions during the cooking process.

Use shortcuts: Utilize pre-chopped or pre-measured ingredients such as pre-ground walnuts to save time and effort.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the provided instructions to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking experience.

Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and bowls as you progress through the recipe to maintain a tidy workspace.

Substitute Ingredients For Walnut Bundt Cake Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and moisture to the cake, and it also adds a hint of coconut flavor.
walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans have a similar texture and flavor profile to walnuts, making them a great substitute in this recipe.

Presentation Ideas for a Delightful Walnut Bundt Cake

Elevate the plating: When presenting the walnut bundt cake, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use a large, elegant platter to showcase the cake, allowing it to take center stage.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of elegance by garnishing the plate with delicate, edible flowers such as pansies or violets. This adds a pop of color and a sophisticated touch to the presentation.
Incorporate a drizzle: Create an artful drizzle on the plate using a caramel sauce or a chocolate ganache. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a layer of flavor to the dish.
Accompany with a side: Pair the walnut bundt cake with a complementary side such as a quenelle of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. This adds dimension to the presentation and provides a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
Utilize height: Consider incorporating varying heights in the presentation by using a pedestal or cake stand. This adds a sense of grandeur and draws attention to the exquisite dessert.
Dust with powdered sugar: Before serving, delicately dust the cake with a fine sprinkling of powdered sugar. This adds a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness to the overall presentation.
Personalize with a monogram: For a truly sophisticated touch, consider personalizing each slice with a delicate, edible monogram. This adds a bespoke element to the presentation, elevating it to a fine dining experience.
Emphasize symmetry: Arrange the cake slices in a symmetrical pattern on the plate, ensuring a balanced and visually appealing presentation that reflects precision and attention to detail.
Highlight the walnuts: Showcase the star ingredient by strategically placing whole or halved walnuts around the plate, drawing attention to the key component of the dish.
Use a gold leaf accent: For a luxurious touch, consider adding a delicate, edible gold leaf accent to the plate. This adds a touch of opulence and sophistication to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Baking a Perfect Bundt Cake

Stand mixer: A stand mixer is a kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients. It is equipped with a mixing bowl and various attachments for different culinary tasks.
Bundt pan: A bundt pan is a round baking pan with a hollow center and decorative fluted sides, used for making bundt cakes. It helps the cake cook evenly and creates a beautiful shape.
Baking spray: Baking spray is a convenient combination of oil and flour used to grease baking pans and prevent baked goods from sticking. It ensures easy release of the cake from the pan.
Sifter: A sifter is a handheld or mechanical device used to aerate and break up clumps in dry ingredients such as flour, and to combine and smooth them for baking.
Toothpick: A toothpick is a small, pointed wooden stick used to test the doneness of baked goods. Inserted into the cake, it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.
Cake plate: A cake plate is a decorative serving dish designed for presenting and serving cakes. It often features a pedestal base and a flat, raised surface for displaying the cake.

Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Walnut Bundt Cake

Let the walnut bundt cake cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cake soggy.
To store the cake at room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the refrigerator.
To freeze the walnut bundt cake:
1. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, making sure to cover all sides and edges.
2. Wrap the cake again in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container with a tight-fitting lid.
3. Label the wrapped cake with the date and contents.
4. Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
To thaw a frozen walnut bundt cake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, remove the wrapping and let the cake come to room temperature before serving.
If you want to freeze individual slices, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or bag. To thaw, remove the desired number of slices and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour.

How To Reheat Leftover Walnut Bundt Cake

To reheat leftover walnut bundt cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cake is heated through and the walnuts are fragrant. This method helps to restore the cake's moisture and brings out the nutty flavor of the walnuts.
For a quicker reheating option, you can use the microwave. Cut a slice of the walnut bundt cake and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it on high power for 15-20 seconds, or until the cake is warm and soft. Be careful not to overheat the cake, as it may become rubbery or dry. This method is best for individual servings and when you're short on time.
If you want to add a touch of indulgence to your leftover walnut bundt cake, try warming it up in a skillet with a pat of butter. Melt the butter over medium heat and place a slice of the cake in the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until the cake is golden brown and crispy around the edges. This method creates a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft, moist interior of the cake.
For a no-fuss approach, you can enjoy your leftover walnut bundt cake at room temperature. Simply take the cake out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving, allowing it to come to room temperature naturally. This method is perfect for those who prefer a denser, more compact texture in their cake and want to savor the pure flavors of the walnuts and vanilla.

Interesting Trivia About Walnut Bundt Cakes

The walnut bundt cake is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. It's a versatile recipe that can be customized with different flavors and additions, such as chocolate chips or cinnamon.

Is Making a Walnut Bundt Cake at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this walnut bundt cake recipe is quite high. The ingredients are commonly found in households, and the recipe yields a large cake that can serve a family for several days. The use of walnuts adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly dessert option. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering the taste, ease of preparation, and cost-effectiveness.

Is This Dessert Healthy or Unhealthy?

This walnut bundt cake recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to its high sugar and fat content. The recipe calls for a significant amount of butter, sugar, and brown sugar, which can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues if consumed in excess. Additionally, the recipe uses refined flour, which has been stripped of its natural nutrients and fiber.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar and butter used in the recipe. You can experiment with using applesauce or mashed bananas as a partial substitute for butter to maintain moisture while cutting down on fat.
Replace some or all of the refined flour with whole wheat flour, almond flour, or oat flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the cake.
Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener to reduce the overall sugar content without sacrificing sweetness.
Incorporate additional healthy ingredients such as grated zucchini, carrots, or apples to add moisture, fiber, and nutrients to the cake.
Serve the cake with fresh berries or a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sugary frostings or toppings to keep the added sugar to a minimum.

Editor's Opinion on This Classic Walnut Bundt Cake Recipe

This walnut bundt cake recipe is a delightful combination of rich, buttery flavors and the satisfying crunch of walnuts. The use of both ground and chopped walnuts adds a wonderful texture to the cake, while the addition of vanilla extract enhances the overall aroma and taste. The baking time and temperature are perfect for achieving a moist and tender crumb. The presentation of the cake, with the walnuts on top, adds a beautiful finishing touch. Overall, this recipe promises a delectable dessert that will surely impress your guests.

Enhance Your Walnut Bundt Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and parmesan cheese, perfect for pairing with the rich walnut bundt cake.

Grilled Vegetables: A colorful medley of grilled vegetables, lightly seasoned and drizzled with balsamic glaze, providing a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the walnut bundt cake.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring a mix of seasonal fruits, such as juicy berries, sweet melon, and tangy citrus, offering a light and fruity accompaniment to the decadent walnut bundt cake.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Walnut Bundt Cake

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: This honey garlic glazed salmon is a delicious and healthy meal option that is quick and easy to make. The sweet and savory glaze pairs perfectly with the tender and flaky salmon, making it a crowd-pleaser for any dinner table.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Indulge in this tropical and refreshing mango coconut chia pudding for a guilt-free dessert or snack. The combination of sweet mango and creamy coconut milk creates a luscious and satisfying treat that is also packed with nutrients.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Walnut Bundt Cake

Appetizers:

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Combine creamy spinach and artichoke with a blend of cheeses for a rich and savory appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more. Serve with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread for dipping.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a flavorful and satisfying appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a mixture of savory ingredients like sausage, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: As a culinary chef, I recommend a creamy and indulgent Chicken Alfredo. This classic Italian dish features tender chicken and al dente pasta smothered in a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce. The combination of savory chicken and silky sauce is sure to satisfy any craving for comfort food.

Beef Stroganoff: For a hearty and comforting main course, consider preparing Beef Stroganoff. This Russian dish features tender strips of beef cooked in a creamy and flavorful sauce, typically served over a bed of buttery egg noodles. The combination of savory beef and luscious sauce creates a dish that is both satisfying and delicious.

Why trust this Walnut Bundt Cake Recipe:

This recipe uses only the finest ingredients, ensuring top-notch quality and flavor. The combination of walnuts and vanilla extract creates a delightful aroma and taste. The use of unsalted butter and whole milk guarantees a rich and creamy texture. The step-by-step instructions are clear and easy to follow, making it accessible for all levels of bakers. The inclusion of brown sugar adds a depth of flavor, while the baking powder ensures a perfect rise. Trust in this recipe to deliver a delectable bundt cake that will impress and satisfy your cravings.

Share your thoughts on the Walnut Bundt Cake Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum and let us know how your cake turned out!

FAQ:

How can I make this walnut bundt cake recipe gluten-free?

To make this walnut bundt cake gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure to check the labels of all ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free, including the baking powder.

Can I substitute the walnuts with a different type of nut?

Yes, you can substitute the walnuts with other nuts such as pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts, based on your preference. Just make sure to chop them to a similar size as the walnuts in the recipe.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

While it's best to use unsalted butter to control the overall saltiness of the cake, you can use salted butter if that's what you have on hand. Just reduce the added salt in the recipe by half to compensate for the salt in the butter.

How should I store the walnut bundt cake?

Store the walnut bundt cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Can I freeze the walnut bundt cake?

Yes, you can freeze the walnut bundt cake. Once it has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before bringing it to room temperature before serving.