Introduction
Are you looking for a dessert that combines the bold flavors of coffee, the warmth of ginger, and the crunch of walnuts? This coffee walnut slice recipe with ginger is exactly what you need. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or a special occasion, this slice brings together rich and comforting flavors in every bite. Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and guarantees delicious results. For more comforting recipes, check out our classic walnut brownie recipe that’s perfect for chocolate lovers.
History and Background of the Coffee Walnut Slice with Ginger
The coffee walnut slice with ginger is a modern twist on traditional baking recipes. This dessert takes the classic combination of coffee and walnuts and enhances it with the spicy warmth of ginger. Popular in many Western cultures, this slice is a favorite for its unique flavor profile and comforting texture. Adding ginger to the mix brings a refreshing twist, making it a versatile treat that can be enjoyed year-round. If you’re interested in exploring more traditional desserts, our gingerbread loaf recipe is a must-try.
Key Ingredients for Coffee Walnut Slice with Ginger
To make this flavorful coffee walnut slice, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- All-Purpose Flour: The base of the slice, providing structure.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and a tender crumb to the slice.
- Brown Sugar: Gives the slice a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the coffee and ginger.
- Coffee: Use either ground coffee or brewed coffee to infuse the slice with bold flavor.
- Ginger: Freshly grated ginger or ground ginger adds warmth and spice.
- Walnuts: Chopped walnuts provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Eggs: These help bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
- Baking Powder: Ensures the slice rises properly and has a light texture.
Sourcing Tips:
- For the best flavor, use freshly ground coffee and organic walnuts. Freshly grated ginger is recommended for its vibrant flavor. You can find more tips on choosing the best ingredients in our ultimate baking ingredients guide.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Coffee Walnut Slice with Ginger
Follow these detailed steps to make the perfect coffee walnut slice at home.
1. Preparing the Base
- Creaming the Butter and Sugar: Start by creaming 1/2 cup of unsalted butter with 1/2 cup of brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process helps incorporate air into the mixture, leading to a lighter texture.
- Adding the Eggs: Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures the eggs are fully incorporated into the mixture, which is crucial for the structure of the slice.
2. Mixing the Dry Ingredients
- Sifting the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. This removes any lumps and ensures an even distribution of the leavening agent.
- Incorporating the Coffee and Ginger: Add 2 tablespoons of ground coffee and 1 teaspoon of ground ginger to the flour mixture. Stir to combine, ensuring the flavors are evenly distributed.
3. Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Mixing the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the slice dense.
- Ensuring Smooth Consistency: The batter should be smooth and thick, with no visible lumps of flour. For tips on achieving the perfect batter consistency, refer to our baking tips for beginners.
4. Adding Walnuts
- Folding in the Walnuts: Gently fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. For an extra flavor boost, lightly toast the walnuts before adding them to the batter. Learn more about the benefits of toasting nuts in our guide to toasting nuts.
5. Baking the Slice
- Preparing the Baking Tin: Grease and line an 8-inch square baking tin with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Pouring the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared tin, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Baking: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The slice should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch.
6. Cooling and Icing
- Cooling the Slice: Allow the slice to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Preparing the Icing: For a simple coffee icing, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of strong brewed coffee until smooth. Drizzle the icing over the cooled slice and let it set before cutting into squares. For more icing ideas, visit our icing and frosting guide.
Tips and Variations
To make this coffee walnut slice recipe your own, consider these tips and variations:
- Ingredient Substitutions: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend. To make the slice vegan, substitute the butter with coconut oil and the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg).
- Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra warmth. For a richer flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
- Presentation Tips: Garnish the slice with extra chopped walnuts or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish. For more presentation tips, check out our baking presentation guide.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content for the coffee walnut slice:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories per slice, depending on the size of the slices.
- Fat: Around 15 grams per slice, primarily from the butter and walnuts.
- Protein: Approximately 4 grams per slice.
- Carbohydrates: About 30 grams per slice, mostly from the flour and sugar.
- Dietary Modifications: Reduce the sugar by using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of brown sugar. For a lower-fat version, use half the amount of butter and replace the other half with applesauce. Find more healthy baking substitutions in our healthy baking guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a coffee walnut slice? A coffee walnut slice is a baked treat that combines the bold flavors of coffee and ginger with the crunchy texture of walnuts. It’s typically enjoyed as a snack or dessert, especially with a cup of coffee or tea.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as baking powder, are also gluten-free.
3. How do I store coffee walnut slices? Store the slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months.
4. Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger? Yes, you can use freshly grated ginger for a more intense ginger flavor. Use about 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger in place of the ground ginger.
5. What other nuts can I use in place of walnuts? If you’re not a fan of walnuts, you can substitute them with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts. Each type of nut will bring a slightly different flavor and texture to the slice. Learn more about different nuts in baking in our nut guide for bakers.
Conclusion
The coffee walnut slice with ginger is a delightful treat that brings together bold and warm flavors in every bite. With its rich combination of coffee, ginger, and walnuts, it’s a perfect dessert for any occasion. This recipe guide has provided you with all the steps and tips needed to make this delicious slice at home. So why not give it a try and enjoy a slice with your next cup of coffee?