Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice Recipe – A Perfect Treat for Coffee Lovers

Introduction

If you’re a fan of the rich, deep flavors of coffee, the warming spice of ginger, and the earthy crunch of walnuts, then you’re in for a treat! The coffee ginger walnut slice combines all these flavors into one decadent and satisfying dessert. Perfect for a coffee break, as a post-dinner treat, or even as a sweet breakfast option, this recipe brings together complex flavors in a unique and delightful way. In this blog, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about this irresistible coffee ginger walnut slice, from ingredients to step-by-step preparation.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a slice that’s packed with flavor, texture, and the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

1. What is a Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice?

The coffee ginger walnut slice is a layered dessert bar that’s known for its blend of flavors and textures. It typically consists of a crumbly base, a flavorful filling, and a smooth topping. Each bite offers a taste of strong coffee, spicy ginger, and the nuttiness of toasted walnuts, making it a great treat for those who enjoy layered, complex flavors in their desserts.

• Coffee: Adds a rich, slightly bitter note that balances out the sweetness.
• Ginger: Provides a warm spice that pairs well with coffee, creating a unique depth of flavor.
• Walnuts: Add crunch and earthiness, along with a dose of healthy fats and protein.

This slice is often served in squares and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

2. Ingredients for Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice

Before we dive into the preparation, let’s gather the ingredients. This recipe uses common pantry items, and most ingredients can be found at any grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup brewed strong coffee (cooled)
• 1/4 cup molasses or golden syrup (for a touch of sweetness and depth)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 tbsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Coffee Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp strong brewed coffee (adjust for consistency)
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

These ingredients create a slice that’s just the right amount of sweet, with a lovely coffee glaze to top it off. The glaze adds a touch of sophistication and enhances the coffee flavor, making each slice even more delicious.

3. Step-by-Step Recipe for Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice

Now that we’ve gathered all the ingredients, let’s get started on creating this delicious treat!

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to help remove the slices later.
2. Mix the Base Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
3. Add the Flour: Gradually add the flour, mixing just until a crumbly dough forms. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
4. Bake the Base: Bake the base in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the brewed coffee, molasses, brown sugar, egg, and melted butter until smooth.
2. Add Spices and Nuts: Stir in the ground ginger, cinnamon, and salt. Then, fold in the chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.
3. Pour Over Base: Pour this filling mixture over the baked base, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Slice

1. Bake Again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
2. Cool Completely: Allow the slice to cool completely in the pan. Cooling helps the filling set, making it easier to cut the slice into squares without it falling apart.

Step 4: Prepare the Coffee Glaze

1. Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, brewed coffee, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Add more coffee if the glaze is too thick or more powdered sugar if it’s too thin.
2. Drizzle Over the Slice: Once the slice has completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Use a spoon to create a decorative drizzle or pour over for a smooth finish.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

1. Cut into Squares: Using a sharp knife, cut the dessert into squares or rectangles for serving. Each piece should have a layer of the crumbly base, gooey filling, and smooth coffee glaze.
2. Enjoy: Serve immediately, or store the slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

4. Why You’ll Love This Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice

Here are a few reasons why this dessert is bound to become a favorite in your household:

• Balanced Flavors: The coffee, ginger, and walnuts work together to create a perfectly balanced treat. The coffee’s bitterness, the ginger’s warmth, and the walnuts’ earthiness create a harmony that keeps you coming back for more.
• Texture Delight: Each bite combines a crunchy base with a chewy filling and a smooth glaze, making this slice a textural experience as well as a flavorful one.
• Versatile Treat: This slice is ideal for various occasions. It’s refined enough for a dinner party, but also cozy enough for a quiet afternoon snack.
• Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and easy steps, it’s a great recipe to have on hand when you want a homemade dessert without a lot of fuss.

5. Tips for the Perfect Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice

Here are some helpful tips to make sure your coffee ginger walnut slice turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your coffee is fresh and strong for maximum flavor, and don’t skimp on the spices.
• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Patience is key! Allowing the slice to cool completely will make it much easier to cut and serve.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the sugar in the filling slightly, as the glaze will add extra sweetness.
• Enhance with Dark Chocolate: For an added layer of richness, sprinkle a handful of dark chocolate chips over the filling before baking.

6. Pairing Ideas: Enjoying Your Coffee Ginger Walnut Slice

While this slice is fantastic on its own, it can be even better when paired with the right beverage:

• Espresso or Black Coffee: The bold flavors in a plain coffee or espresso match well with the rich coffee notes in the slice.
• Chai Tea: The spices in chai complement the ginger and cinnamon in the dessert, enhancing its warmth and spiciness.
• Hot Chocolate: For a cozy, indulgent pairing, try a hot chocolate alongside the coffee ginger walnut slice.

Conclusion

The coffee ginger walnut slice is a deliciously unique treat that combines the flavors of coffee, ginger, and walnuts into a dessert you’ll want to make again and again. Its simplicity, yet complexity of flavors, makes it perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a quiet moment at home. With its rich taste and satisfying texture, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

So why not give it a try? Treat yourself to the flavors of coffee, ginger, and walnuts in this easy-to-make and irresistibly delicious slice. Happy baking!