If you’ve ever craved a cake that feels like a warm hug in every bite, then you are absolutely going to adore this Simple Moist Chocolate Walnut Cake Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of rich, deep chocolate flavor and the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts, wrapped up in a tender, moist crumb that melts in your mouth. Whether it’s a weekday treat or a special occasion dessert, this cake is unbelievably easy to whip up but delivers so much joy and comfort with each slice. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a beloved staple for chocolate lovers everywhere.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients that all come together to create a cake that’s as simple as it is sensational. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the cocoa powder lending its bold chocolate richness, to the buttermilk ensuring a tender, moist texture that keeps the cake wonderfully soft.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that provides structure to our cake for just the right crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens everything perfectly without overpowering the chocolate.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Infuses the batter with rich chocolate flavor and a lovely dark color.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and become light and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with acidic ingredients for lift and tenderness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender for days.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s rich texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the chocolate flavor.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Provides moisture and subtle tanginess that tenderizes the crumb.
- 1/2 cup hot water: Helps dissolve the cocoa and makes the batter smooth and velvety.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Offers a delightful crunch that complements the soft cake perfectly.
How to Make Simple Moist Chocolate Walnut Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to get your oven fully heated so your cake cooks evenly. While it’s warming up, grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan to ensure your cake releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Combine Your Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all the dry components: flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures each ingredient is evenly distributed for a consistent, perfect crumb in your cake.
Step 3: Mix in the Wet Ingredients
Add the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry mix, blending until the batter is smooth and no dry patches remain. This creates a velvety base that starts building the richness we’re after.
Step 4: Incorporate Buttermilk Gradually
Pour in the buttermilk slowly while mixing to keep the batter smooth and prevent lumps. Buttermilk is the secret weapon here—it reacts with baking soda to make the cake especially tender and moist.
Step 5: Add Hot Water for That Silky Finish
Carefully stir in the hot water until your batter is thin and shiny. This thinned batter might feel surprising, but it’s exactly what gives this cake its famously moist texture.
Step 6: Fold in the Walnuts
If you’re using walnuts, gently fold them through the batter now. They add a lovely nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the cake.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and pop it in the oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack—this prevents it from becoming soggy.
How to Serve Simple Moist Chocolate Walnut Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar immediately makes this cake look stunning while adding a touch of sweetness. For a more decadent finish, a spread of cream cheese frosting or whipped chocolate ganache will elevate it to dessert table royalty.
Side Dishes
Serve a slice alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries to brighten the plate and add a refreshing contrast. A hot cup of coffee or your favorite tea also pairs wonderfully to balance the rich chocolate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform this cake into a layered creation by slicing it horizontally and filling with chocolate mousse or raspberry jam. Alternatively, cut it into squares and serve as bite-sized treats at parties—perfect for sharing the joy with friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Simple Moist Chocolate Walnut Cake Recipe wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake securely in plastic wrap, then foil, and place in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
For warm slices, microwave your cake for about 15 to 20 seconds. This gentle reheating enhances the moist texture and brings out the chocolate’s richness without drying out your cake.
FAQs
Can I omit the walnuts in this Simple Moist Chocolate Walnut Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! The walnuts are optional and simply add extra texture and nuttiness. The cake is delicious on its own without them.
What’s the best way to make this cake extra moist?
Using buttermilk and vegetable oil instead of butter makes this cake irresistibly moist and tender. Also, don’t overbake—check with a toothpick early to ensure it stays soft.
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle—it’s a good substitute for tenderizing the cake.
How long does the Simple Moist Chocolate Walnut Cake Recipe take to bake?
The baking time is about 30-35 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on it from the 30-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Can I make this recipe into cupcakes?
Yes! Just fill cupcake liners about two-thirds full and bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. They’re perfect for individual servings and parties.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Moist Chocolate Walnut Cake Recipe is a treasure to have in your baking repertoire—effortless to prepare, reliably delicious, and deeply satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience that perfect balance of chocolate and walnut goodness that feels like a little celebration every time. Enjoy every bite as much as I do!
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Simple Moist Chocolate Walnut Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Simple Moist Chocolate Walnut Cake is a rich and tender dessert perfect for any occasion. Combining the intense flavor of cocoa with crunchy walnuts, this cake is easy to make with common pantry ingredients and bakes to a soft, moist texture that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup hot water
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan to ensure the cake does not stick during baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and cocoa.
- Add Wet Ingredients: To the dry mixture, add vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until all ingredients form a cohesive batter.
- Incorporate Buttermilk: Gradually pour in the buttermilk while mixing continuously to create a smooth and silky batter.
- Mix in Hot Water: Stir in the hot water carefully until the batter is thin and smooth, which helps keep the cake moist and tender.
- Add Walnuts: Fold in the chopped walnuts evenly throughout the batter, if using, for added texture and flavor.
- Pour Batter: Transfer the prepared batter into the greased and floured cake pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Serve the cake plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with your favorite frosting for extra indulgence.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute vegetable oil with melted butter.
- If you don’t have buttermilk, use 1 cup of milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Walnuts can be toasted before adding to enhance their flavor.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter once wet ingredients are added to avoid a dense cake.
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
