Walnut Cinnamon Cake (Gluten-Free) Recipe

If you are searching for a warm, comforting treat that is both delicious and suitable for gluten-free diets, look no further than this Walnut Cinnamon Cake (Gluten-Free). This cake brilliantly balances the rich nuttiness of walnuts with the warm spices of cinnamon, all tied together with a gentle sweetness from natural ingredients like maple syrup and almond flour. It’s a tender, moist cake that feels indulgent yet wholesome, perfect for cozy afternoons or holiday gatherings. Once you try this Walnut Cinnamon Cake (Gluten-Free), it might just become your go-to recipe whenever you want to impress friends and family with something special yet naturally gluten-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients are the heart of this Walnut Cinnamon Cake (Gluten-Free). Each one plays a crucial role in creating the cake’s moist texture, depth of flavor, and delightful aroma.

• Almond flour (240g/2 cups): The gluten-free foundation that gives the cake a tender, nutty crumb.
• Baking soda (1/4 teaspoon): A subtle leavening agent ensuring the cake rises perfectly.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds that inviting warmth and aromatic spice that defines the cake’s character.
• Large eggs (3): Provide structure and richness, binding all the ingredients together.
• Maple syrup (120g/1/2 cup plus 30g for glaze): A natural sweetener that adds a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
• Coconut oil, melted (60g/1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon for glaze): Adds moisture and a subtle tropical note while keeping the cake rich.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses an aromatic sweetness that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
• Unsweetened almond milk (60ml/1/4 cup): Keeps the batter smooth and light without overpowering the nutty flavors.
• Walnuts, chopped (1 cup): Provide crunch and an earthy contrast to the soft crumb.

How to Make Walnut Cinnamon Cake (Gluten-Free)

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures consistent heat for even baking. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cake removal effortless.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together almond flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon in a medium bowl. This step distributes the baking soda and cinnamon evenly so you get a consistent rise and spice in every bite.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, crack in the eggs and whisk thoroughly, then add maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and almond milk. Mixing these until smooth creates a beautifully rich and fragrant base for your cake batter.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined—overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Then gently fold in the chopped walnuts to spread that crunchy texture evenly throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will fill with the most comforting aroma of cinnamon and nuts as it bakes.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While the cake bakes, prepare the glaze by gently heating maple syrup, coconut oil, and cinnamon in a small saucepan until everything is smooth and glossy. This glaze will add a lovely sheen and extra flavor punch.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set slightly, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top, letting it melt slightly into every nook and cranny.

How to Serve Walnut Cinnamon Cake (Gluten-Free)

Garnishes

Enhance your Walnut Cinnamon Cake (Gluten-Free) with simple garnishes like a sprinkle of extra chopped walnuts for crunch, a dusting of ground cinnamon for extra warmth, or a dollop of whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free touch of luxury.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of rich coffee or spiced chai tea to match its cozy flavors. For a more indulgent experience, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, cut the cake into small squares and arrange on a platter dusted with cinnamon sugar. Or serve individual slices topped with fresh berries and a drizzle of warm maple glaze for a refined dessert experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Walnut Cinnamon Cake (Gluten-Free) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness and moisture. It’s a perfect treat for the next morning with coffee or tea.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed inside a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving, preserving its flavor and texture beautifully.

Reheating

To enjoy the cake warm, reheat slices in a microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes. This restores its soft, freshly baked texture and releases the wonderful aromas again.

FAQs

Can I substitute walnuts for another type of nut?

Absolutely! Pecans or hazelnuts are excellent alternatives that complement the cinnamon flavor wonderfully. Just chop them similarly and fold into the batter in the same way.

Is this cake suitable for a vegan diet?

This Walnut Cinnamon Cake (Gluten-Free) recipe uses eggs, so it is not vegan as is. However, you could experiment with flax eggs or chia eggs as substitutes, but the texture may vary slightly.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?

Yes, honey or agave nectar can be used in place of maple syrup, though the flavor might shift slightly. Maple syrup adds a unique depth and caramel undertone that works beautifully here.

How do I know when the cake is perfectly baked?

The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. Baking times can vary, so keep an eye on it toward the end.

Can I make this cake nut-free?

Since almond flour and walnuts are key ingredients here, this cake is not nut-free. For a nut-free option, you could try a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking and omit the walnuts, but the flavor profile will be different.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give this Walnut Cinnamon Cake (Gluten-Free) a try because it’s one of those recipes that warms your heart and delights your taste buds in every slice. It’s cozy, easy to make, and impressively flavorful without complicated ingredients. Whether for a special occasion or just to make an ordinary day feel a little sweeter, this cake has all the qualities to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Happy baking, and enjoy every bite!

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