Robust Coffee and Walnut Loaf Cake with Supreme Coffee Buttercream

Unleash the delightful fusion of bold coffee and crunchy walnuts in this Robust Coffee and Walnut Loaf Cake, a recipe that rekindles your love for the classic flavor pairing. Tailored for those who appreciate the profound taste of coffee, this cake offers a rich, aromatic experience with every slice. However, those who prefer a milder coffee flavor can easily adjust the intensity. Featuring a vegan-friendly recipe, including an elite icing option inspired by Russian buttercream, this loaf cake promises a luxurious texture and taste that’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This: Coffee enthusiasts, rejoice! This loaf cake is designed with your sophisticated palate in mind, delivering a strong coffee punch that’s perfectly balanced with the nutty, crunchy texture of walnuts. The unique addition of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to the plant milk creates a tender crumb, while the Russian-inspired coffee buttercream (if you choose to make it) envelops the cake in a silky, flavorful embrace. This cake is not just a treat; it’s an experience.

Perfect Occasion: Whether it’s a morning indulgence, a sophisticated afternoon tea, or a comforting dessert after dinner, this Coffee and Walnut Loaf Cake suits any moment you wish to enhance with a slice of elegance. It’s also an impressive option for book clubs, brunches, or any gathering of friends and family where you want to offer something special, yet familiar and comforting.

Decoration Tips: To elevate the presentation of your loaf cake, consider garnishing the top with a handful of finely chopped walnuts or a dusting of coffee powder before serving. For a more festive touch, edible flowers or a drizzle of caramel sauce can add visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor. The key is to complement the cake’s robust coffee notes without overwhelming them.

For the Loaf:

• Ingredients:
  • 225ml plant-based milk
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
  • 235g all-purpose flour
  • 210g granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 2 tbsp instant coffee powder (or dissolve granules in a bit of water)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 90ml vegetable oil
  • 100g walnuts, chopped (adjust to preference)

Instructions:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (fan setting), and prepare a 1lb loaf tin with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix the plant milk with vinegar or lemon juice. Once it curdles, blend in the flour, sugar, baking soda, coffee powder, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
3. Gently fold in the walnuts, then pour the mixture into the prepared tin. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted comes out clean. Allow to cool on a wire rack.

For the Simple Coffee Buttercream:

• Ingredients:
  • 60g vegan butter
  • 120g powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp plant-based milk
  • 2 tsp instant coffee powder (adjust to taste)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk the butter, powdered sugar, and milk until the mixture is pale and fluffy. An electric mixer works best for this.
2. Stir in the coffee powder to your liking.
3. Once the loaf is completely cool, spread the buttercream over the top. Refrigerate before serving to set the icing.

Indulge in the deep, satisfying flavors of this Robust Coffee and Walnut Loaf Cake, a delightful blend of texture, taste, and aromas that promise to make every occasion a bit more special. Enjoy!