This Whole Wheat Crumble Cake with Honey and Walnuts is a rustic dessert that brings together simple, wholesome ingredients in a delicious way. The whole wheat flour gives the cake a satisfying, nutty texture that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of honey and the rich crunch of walnuts. The use of mandarin zest adds a delicate aromatic note, giving the cake a bright, citrusy flavor that balances out the richness. This cake is as easy to make as it is delicious, with a wonderfully crumbly texture that melts in your mouth. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both cozy and full of natural ingredients, this crumble cake will certainly satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This crumble cake has everything you could want from a rustic dessert. The whole wheat flour gives it a robust, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the honey and the warm crunch of the walnuts. The honey and walnut filling adds a beautiful richness, while the lemon juice adds a slight tang that makes every bite more balanced. What’s great about this recipe is its simplicity—no fancy equipment is needed, and it comes together in no time, making it perfect for home bakers of all levels. Plus, the combination of wholesome ingredients makes this dessert feel indulgent without being overly sweet or heavy. It’s a delicious treat that brings comfort in every bite!
Perfect Occasion:
This Whole Wheat Crumble Cake is ideal for casual gatherings or weekend family meals when you want something homemade and comforting. It’s perfect for a cozy afternoon with tea or coffee, and it can also be a delightful breakfast cake. The combination of whole wheat and honey makes it a bit more wholesome, so you can even enjoy it as a snack without feeling like you’re overindulging. The cake also makes a lovely addition to any holiday table, with its warm, comforting flavors and rustic appearance. Serve it slightly warm for a cozy treat on chilly days.
Decoration Tips:
Once the cake has cooled, a light dusting of powdered sugar will add a simple but elegant touch, enhancing the rustic look without overpowering the flavors. For a more decorative presentation, you can scatter a few whole or halved walnuts on top of the crumble before baking. If you want to add a touch of color, garnish the cake with a few mandarin zest curls after it has cooled. The bright orange zest will not only add a fresh citrus aroma but also make the cake look extra appealing. Alternatively, drizzle a little extra honey on top just before serving for a shiny, sweet finish.
Ingredients for the Base:
- 2 eggs
- 150 g granulated sugar
- 400 g whole wheat flour
- 150 g butter, cold and cubed
- Grated zest of 3 mandarins
- 8 g (half a packet) of baking powder
Ingredients for the Filling:
- 250 g wildflower honey
- 250 g walnuts, chopped
- Juice of half a lemon
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Heat the honey: In a small saucepan, warm the honey just enough to make it more fluid and easier to work with.
- Mix the filling: Combine the warmed honey with the chopped walnuts and lemon juice. Stir well and set the mixture aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, sugar, baking powder, cold cubed butter, and the grated mandarin zest. Using your hands, work the mixture together until it reaches a sandy, crumbly consistency.
- Incorporate the eggs: Create a well in the center of the crumbly mixture, add the eggs, and use your fingertips to mix everything together. Continue mixing until the dough forms coarse crumbs. The dough should remain slightly crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F) in static mode. Grease and flour a 26 cm (10-inch) round cake pan to prevent sticking.
- Form the base: Pour half of the crumbly dough into the bottom of the prepared cake pan. Press the dough firmly with your hands to create an even layer. Prick the base with a fork to prevent air bubbles.
- Add the filling: Spread the honey and walnut mixture evenly over the dough base.
- Top with remaining dough: Sprinkle the remaining dough over the top of the filling, ensuring the entire surface is covered but leaving a rustic, crumbly texture.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
- Bake the cake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cake is firm to the touch.
- Cool and decorate: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust with powdered sugar: Once the cake has fully cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful, sweet finish.
Enjoy this wholesome and delicious Whole Wheat Crumble Cake with Honey and Walnuts, a perfect treat for any occasion!