Oh boy, do I have a treat to share with you today! There’s just something special about a warm slice of **Cranberry Walnut Coffee Cake** to accompany your morning cup of coffee or tea. Whenever I whip up this recipe, it brings back memories of cozy holiday mornings, the kitchen filled with sweet and tangy aromas, while the family gathers around the table. Plus, it’s such a delightful combination of flavors – the tartness of cranberries perfectly balanced by the crunch of walnuts, all wrapped up in a warmly spiced, fluffy cake. I guarantee that once you try it, you’ll want to make it a go-to recipe for brunches, family gatherings, or just a little treat for yourself!
What makes this coffee cake truly unique is its versatility. You can enjoy it plain, add a drizzle of icing on top, or serve it with a dollop of whipped cream. It’s a true crowd-pleaser, and I promise it will impress your friends and family!
What’s in Cranberry Walnut Coffee Cake?
Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and break down what you need:
Cranberries: The star of the show! I use fresh cranberries whenever they’re in season, but frozen works just fine, too. Just be sure to thaw them first if you go that route. Their tartness adds a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
Walnuts: These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. I always toast them lightly to bring out their rich taste. You can opt for chopped walnuts, but feel free to get creative with pecans or almonds if you’re feeling adventurous!
All-Purpose Flour: The base of our cake that gives it that soft, fluffy texture. I prefer a good quality brand, like King Arthur Flour, for consistent results.
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness, making each bite irresistible. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using brown sugar for a hint of molasses flavor.
Baking Powder: This is our leavening agent, helping the cake rise beautifully. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results!
Eggs: They bind everything together while adding moisture. I often use large eggs in my baking, as they typically yield the best texture.
Milk: This adds tenderness and moisture. Whole milk works wonderfully, but you can substitute with almond or oat milk if you prefer.
Butter: The secret to a rich flavor! I love to use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of my cake.
Is Cranberry Walnut Coffee Cake Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health! While **Cranberry Walnut Coffee Cake** is definitely a sweet treat, it does bring some surprises to the table in terms of nutrition.
Cranberries: These little gems are loaded with antioxidants and vitamins – they’re a great way to boost your health! They can help with urinary tract health and may even provide heart health benefits. Just remember, they can be tart, so they work best mixed into sweet dishes.
Walnuts: Oh, these beauties are not just crunchy goodness; they’re rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health and brain function. So when you dig into a slice, know you’re getting some beneficial nutrients!
The downside? Well, like many baked goods, this coffee cake should be enjoyed in moderation. It carries a fair amount of sugar and calories, mostly from the butter and sugar content. Pairing it with a fresh fruit salad or yogurt can balance it out and make it a wholesome morning meal!
Ingredients List
This recipe serves about 8 people and here’s what you’ll need:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
How to Make Cranberry Walnut Coffee Cake?
Ready to get baking? Let’s do this!
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **sugar**, **baking powder**, **cinnamon**, and **salt**.
3. Add the **butter** and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In another bowl, whisk the **eggs** and then add the **milk**. Pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix!
5. Gently fold in the **cranberries** and **walnuts**.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
7. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before cutting into slices.
Sweet Tips and Serving Suggestions
To kick it up a notch, you can add a simple dusting of powdered sugar on top once the cake cools, or serve it with a warm vanilla glaze. It also pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling indulgent. If cranberries aren’t your thing, you can swap them out for blueberries, or even chopped apples for a lovely fall twist!
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! There’s something so satisfying about slicing into a warm coffee cake, and seeing the vibrant bits of cranberries peeking out. So gather your ingredients, put on your favorite apron, and let’s bake up some love! I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so drop me a comment or share your experience! Happy baking!