We’ve always been fans of recipes that blend bold flavors, and our Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice is no exception. This irresistible treat fuses the deep, aromatic notes of coffee with the warm spice of ginger and the nutty crunch of walnuts, creating a slice that’s perfect for your next coffee break or gathering.
It’s a simple yet sophisticated bake that draws from classic coffee house inspirations, offering a modern twist we know you’ll adore. Whether you’re a coffee lover or just seeking a quick homemade delight, this recipe promises to elevate your baking game effortlessly.
Ingredients
To craft our irresistible Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice, we rely on a carefully curated selection of ingredients that blend the robust notes of coffee, the zing of ginger, and the crunch of walnuts for a treat that’s both simple and sophisticated.
Below, we’ve listed the ingredients in the order they’re typically used in preparation, with specific measurements and prep notes for accuracy and ease.
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Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – sifted to ensure a light texture
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – for a gentle rise
- ½ teaspoon salt – to enhance the flavors
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules – dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water for bold coffee essence
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Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter – softened at room temperature for easy mixing
- 1 cup brown sugar – packed to add depth and moisture
- 2 large eggs – beaten lightly to bind the mixture
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger – freshly ground if possible, for a spicy kick
- 1 cup walnuts – coarsely chopped for added crunch and nutty flavor
These ingredients yield approximately 12-16 slices, depending on how you cut them, making it perfect for sharing at coffee breaks or gatherings.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice together seamlessly, we gather essential tools that ensure precise preparation and baking. Having the right equipment on hand makes the process efficient and enjoyable, building on the ingredients we’ve listed.
Here’s a detailed list of the key items we’ll need:
- Mixing bowls: We use two medium-sized bowls—one for dry ingredients like flour and coffee granules, and another for wet ingredients such as butter and eggs—to keep everything organized and prevent cross-contamination.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for this recipe’s balance of flavors, so we rely on a set of standard cups (for liquids and solids) and spoons (teaspoon and tablespoon) to measure items like brown sugar and ground ginger precisely.
- Baking tray or pan: A 9×13-inch rectangular baking tray works best for this slice, allowing even baking and easy cutting into 12-16 portions once cooled.
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) for optimal results, as it provides the consistent heat needed to achieve a golden, crisp exterior while keeping the inside moist and flavorful.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: This tool helps us mix the batter smoothly, ensuring walnuts and ginger are evenly distributed without overworking the dough.
- Cooling rack: After baking, we place the slice on this to cool evenly, preventing sogginess and making it easier to slice into perfect servings.
- Knife and cutting board: A sharp chef’s knife on a sturdy board allows us to cut the cooled slice cleanly, enhancing presentation for coffee breaks or gatherings.
By preparing these tools in advance, we streamline our baking adventure and achieve professional results with our Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and prepared our equipment, we can guide you through the simple steps to craft our irresistible Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice. Let’s ensure each step is followed precisely for a perfectly textured treat with bold, aromatic flavors.
Prep
Before we begin mixing, let’s get everything ready to streamline the process and achieve optimal results. Start by preheating our oven to 350°F (177°C) as mentioned earlier, allowing it to reach the ideal temperature for even baking. Next, prepare the baking tray by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with unsalted butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
Gather and measure all ingredients in advance for efficiency:
- In one medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of instant coffee granules.
- In another bowl, measure out 1 cup of unsalted butter (softened to room temperature), 1 cup of brown sugar, 2 large eggs, and 1 tablespoon of ground ginger.
- Roughly chop 1 cup of walnuts into even pieces for uniform texture and set them aside.
This preparation sets the stage for a smooth baking experience, highlighting the rich, nutty aroma of walnuts and the spicy warmth of ginger that will infuse our slice.
Mix and Bake
With our ingredients prepped, we now mix and bake to create the hearty base of our Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice, blending flavors for a moist, flavorful result. First, in the bowl with dry ingredients, use a spatula to gently stir together the flour, baking powder, salt, and instant coffee granules until evenly distributed.
In the second bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar using a wooden spoon or spatula until the mixture is light and fluffy, taking about 2-3 minutes—this step enhances the caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with the coffee’s boldness. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then incorporate the ground ginger for a spicy kick. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing and keep the texture tender. Finally, fold in the chopped walnuts for a satisfying crunch.
Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13-inch baking tray, spreading it evenly with a spatula for uniform baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—the kitchen will fill with the enticing aroma of coffee and ginger, signaling a golden-brown top with a soft, chewy interior. For baking times, refer to the table below based on oven variations:
| Oven Type | Baking Time (minutes) | Key Observation |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional Oven | 25-30 | Golden edges, firm center |
| Convection Oven | 20-25 | Even browning, check early |
Cool and Slice
Once baked, we cool and slice our Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice to lock in its flavors and achieve clean cuts, revealing the delightful contrast of crisp edges and moist center. Remove the tray from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes directly in the tray—this allows the slice to set and prevents it from crumbling.
After initial cooling, carefully lift the slice from the tray using the parchment paper and transfer it to the rack for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until completely cool to the touch—the residual heat will enhance the coffee’s robust notes and ginger’s subtle spice. Using a sharp knife and cutting board, slice into 12-16 pieces as noted in our ingredients section, aiming for even squares to showcase the walnuts’ texture and the slice’s inviting, glossy finish.
Make-Ahead Instructions
As we often prepare our Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice for busy days or events, making it ahead ensures you enjoy its bold coffee aroma, spicy ginger kick, and crunchy walnut texture without last-minute hassle. This approach keeps the slice moist and flavorful, perfect for coffee breaks or gatherings.
Preparing the Slice in Advance
To maximize freshness, we suggest baking the slice up to 2 days ahead. Follow our standard steps from the previous section, then allow it to cool completely on the wire rack before proceeding.
- Cool and Store Immediately: Once baked and cooled, slice the Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice into 12-16 even pieces as outlined earlier. This prevents the edges from becoming soggy during storage.
- Refrigerate for Short-Term: Wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to preserve the rich coffee and ginger flavors.
- Freeze for Longer Storage: For extended make-ahead options, freeze the cooled slices. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash-freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method maintains the crisp walnut texture and prevents sticking.
Storage Tips and Reheating
Our tested methods ensure your Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice retains its inviting contrast of moist center and crisp edges.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | Keep in an airtight container to lock in the coffee’s bold aroma; consume within this window for optimal taste and texture. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Label the container with the date; thawing at room temperature for 1-2 hours restores the fresh-baked feel without compromising flavor. |
When ready to serve, reheat refrigerated slices in a 300°F (149°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or enjoy them at room temperature. For frozen slices, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed to revive the warm, spicy ginger notes and nutty crunch.
Conclusion
We’ve loved creating this Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice as a go-to treat that blends simplicity with standout flavors. It’s perfect for adding a special touch to your routines or events. Trust us it’s versatile and satisfying. Try it today and make it part of your baking repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice?
Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice is a simple yet sophisticated homemade treat that combines bold flavors of coffee, ginger, and walnuts. Inspired by classic coffee house recipes with a modern twist, it’s perfect for coffee breaks, gatherings, or as an easy dessert. This slice offers a moist center with crisp edges, making it ideal for coffee lovers and anyone seeking a flavorful snack.
What ingredients are needed for Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice?
You’ll need dry ingredients like all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and instant coffee granules, plus wet ones such as unsalted butter, brown sugar, eggs, ground ginger, and walnuts. These are carefully selected for a perfect blend of flavors and textures, yielding about 12-16 slices. Measure accurately for the best results.
What equipment is required to make Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice?
Essential tools include two medium mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a 9×13-inch baking tray, and an oven preheated to 350°F (177°C). You’ll also need a spatula or wooden spoon for mixing, a cooling rack, and a sharp knife with a cutting board for slicing. Preparing these in advance ensures a smooth baking process.
How do I prepare Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice?
Preheat your oven and prepare the baking tray. Mix dry ingredients in one bowl and cream wet ingredients in another, then fold them together with chopped walnuts. Bake for 25-30 minutes at 350°F, cool on a wire rack, and slice into even pieces. This step-by-step process creates a delicious treat with great texture.
Can I make Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it up to 2 days in advance. Cool completely, then store in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to refresh flavors, keeping the spicy ginger and nutty crunch intact for easy serving.
How should I store Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice?
Store cooled slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For extended freshness, refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore warmth and texture. Proper storage maintains its bold flavors.