A Rustic French Walnut Cake with Golden Honey

🥮 Introduction

Gâteau aux Noix et Miel (Walnut and Honey Cake) is a beloved French dessert, particularly in the Périgord region where walnuts and honey are prized local ingredients. This cake is dense yet moist, with a warm, earthy aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes. It’s a perfect companion to coffee, a cozy breakfast, or a refined teatime treat.

What makes this cake special is its simplicity and depth of flavor – toasted walnuts, rich honey, a touch of butter, and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.

🍽️ Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

Dry:

150g walnuts, shelled

150g all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

Wet:

3 eggs

100g unsalted butter, melted

120g runny honey (preferably acacia or wildflower)

80g brown sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

Zest of 1 lemon or orange (optional)

For decoration (optional):

Whole or chopped walnuts

Warmed honey for glazing

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

🔹 Step 1: Toast the Walnuts

Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).

Spread the walnuts on a baking tray and toast for 8–10 minutes, until fragrant.

Allow them to cool, then chop finely or pulse in a food processor (not too fine – leave some texture).

🔹 Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, and honey until light and foamy.

Add the melted butter, vanilla extract, and zest, mixing gently.

In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and the ground walnuts.

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until well combined.

🔹 Step 3: Bake the Cake

Grease and flour a 20 cm (8-inch) round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack.

🔹 Step 4: Finishing Touch (Optional but Recommended)

While the cake is still warm, brush the top with warm honey for a shiny glaze.

Sprinkle a few extra chopped walnuts or arrange halves on top for a decorative touch.

🌰 Serving Suggestions

Serve slightly warm with a dollop of crème fraîche or Greek yogurt.

Perfect with a cup of espresso, herbal tea, or a small glass of walnut liqueur.

For extra indulgence, drizzle with a little more honey just before serving.

🧊 Storage Tips

Keeps well at room temperature for 2–3 days, covered.

You can refrigerate it for up to 5 days.

Freezes beautifully: wrap tightly and store for up to 1 month.

💡 Tips & Variations

Swap part of the flour with almond flour for added moisture.

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm spice notes.

You can also use maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor profile.

For a richer version, add a splash of dark rum or walnut liqueur to the batter.

🎯 Why You'll Love This Cake

✅ Simple, wholesome ingredients
✅ Deep nutty flavor from toasted walnuts
✅ Naturally sweetened with honey
✅ Elegant enough for guests, easy enough for everyday baking

🇫🇷 Final Thoughts

Gâteau aux Noix et Miel is a true celebration of French countryside baking – modest yet full of character. It reminds us that the best desserts don’t need complex techniques; they just need quality ingredients and a little love.

Next time you're craving something warm, nutty, and slightly sweet – let this rustic walnut cake be your go-to.