Get ready to transform your ordinary baking routine into an extraordinary culinary experience! These California Walnut Coffee Cake Bars are not just a dessert—they're a magical combination of buttery, nutty goodness that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Imagine a perfect balance of sweet, crunchy walnuts nestled in a tender, moist cake that practically melts in your mouth. Whether you're looking for a show-stopping breakfast treat, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these bars are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan with butter or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer on medium speed (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Gently fold in 3/4 cup of the chopped walnuts into the batter, reserving the remaining 1/4 cup for topping.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the remaining chopped walnuts over the top of the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 15 minutes before cutting into bars.
- Once completely cooled, cut into 12 equal bars and serve. Optional: dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for the smoothest, most consistent batter.
- Don't Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense bars.
- Toasting Walnuts: For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast the walnuts in a dry skillet before adding them to the batter.
- Check for Doneness: Use the toothpick test—a few moist crumbs are perfect, but wet batter means it needs more time.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, neat slices.
- Storage Tip: These bars stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
- Customize Your Topping: Try a light dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze for extra indulgence.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 270kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 55mg
