Rich Greek Walnut Cake Soaked in Sweet Spiced Syrup

The walnut version of the honey cake adds chopped nuts to the syrup so each bite has some crunch. I toast the walnuts first so they stay crisp instead of going soft in the soak.

The Greek Walnut Cake recipe is straightforward, letting the distinctive flavor of walnuts shine through while being complemented by the aromatic syrup. It’s a wonderful choice to serve with coffee or tea.

Deliciously Moist Greek Walnut Cake

This cake features a rich blend of walnuts and warm spices, baked to perfection and drenched in a sweet syrup made from sugar, water, and citrus flavors. The recipe takes approximately 1 hour to prepare and bake, and serves about 12 people.

Ingredients

2 cups finely ground walnuts
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup olive oil
1 cup water
1 cup sugar (for syrup)
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
1 cinnamon stick

Instructions

Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined. Stir in the ground walnuts, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, and vanilla extract. Finally, add the olive oil and mix until smooth.
Bake the Cake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Make the Syrup: While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar, water, lemon zest, lemon juice, and the cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
Soak the Cake: Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. Carefully poke holes all over the cake with a toothpick, then pour the warm syrup over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. Serve at room temperature, optionally garnished with extra walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon.