As the seasons change and autumn arrives, there’s no better way to warm up than with a delicious chestnut cake. The rich, nutty flavor of chestnuts pairs perfectly with a variety of sweet and savory ingredients, making them a versatile ingredient for baking. From classic French recipes to innovative twists on traditional desserts, we’ve gathered 18 mouth-watering chestnut cakes that are sure to become your new go-to treats for the fall season.
Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and decadent or light and airy, these chestnut cake recipes have got you covered. With flavors ranging from chocolatey and spiced to fruity and boozy, there’s a chestnut cake out there for everyone. So why not start your autumn baking off right with one of these scrumptious recipes?
Classic French Chestnut Cake
This iconic French dessert is a staple of the holiday season, with its rich, velvety texture and deep chestnut flavor. Perfect for serving at Christmas or Thanksgiving, this classic cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) cooked chestnuts
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and cinnamon.
3. In a large bowl, beat chestnuts and butter until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Japanese Mont Blanc Chestnut Cake
Experience the harmony of Japanese flavors with this unique chestnut cake inspired by the classic French dessert, Mont Blanc.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chestnut puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine chestnut puree, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and heavy cream. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the flour mixture and whisk until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spiced Chestnut and Chocolate Cake
This decadent cake combines the comforting flavors of spiced chestnuts with the richness of dark chocolate, perfect for a cozy evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup cooked and mashed chestnuts
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, mashed chestnuts, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. Fold into the batter.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Glazed Chestnut Pound Cake
Rich and moist chestnut pound cake infused with the warmth of honey glaze is a perfect treat for any occasion. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of roasted chestnuts with the sweetness of pure Canadian honey, creating a delightful dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (60g) roasted chestnut puree
– 2 tablespoons pure Canadian honey
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Add flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined.
4. Stir in chestnut puree and honey.
5. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Vegan Chestnut and Apple Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of apples with the earthy taste of chestnuts, perfect for a cozy autumn evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup canola oil
– 2 large eggs, replaced by 2 flax eggs*
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup roasted and chopped chestnuts
– 1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or other firm variety)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together almond milk, oil, flax eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped chestnuts and diced apples.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Chestnut and Vanilla Sponge Cake
This moist and flavorful sponge cake combines the sweetness of vanilla with the earthy undertones of roasted chestnuts, creating a unique and delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup roasted chestnuts, peeled and chopped
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in the chopped chestnuts.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chestnut Flour Cake with Whipped Cream
This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat. Made with chestnut flour, which adds a nutty flavor and delicate texture, this cake is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups chestnut flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Unsalted butter, softened (for greasing the pan)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool before whipping heavy cream with sugar (to taste) and piping onto cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Caramelized Chestnut and Coffee Cake
Rich flavors of caramelized chestnuts and coffee come together in this sweet and savory breakfast treat. Perfect for a special morning or brunch gathering, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup caramelized chestnuts (cooked according to package instructions)
– 2 teaspoons ground coffee
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine heavy cream, melted butter, granulated sugar, caramelized chestnuts, and ground coffee. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; stir until just combined.
5. Pour in the beaten egg and mix until smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gluten-Free Chestnut and Almond Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a perfect blend of sweet and nutty flavors, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. Made with chestnuts and almonds, this gluten-free treat is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1 cup chestnut puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, and chestnut puree.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs until smooth. Add melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt; whisk until combined.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in sliced almonds.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chestnut and Orange Zest Bundt Cake
This moist and aromatic cake is a perfect treat for the holiday season, combining the warmth of chestnuts with the brightness of orange zest. With its tender crumb and rich flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chestnuts
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in cooked chestnuts, orange zest, and orange juice.
5. Add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Maple Syrup Chestnut Loaf Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for a cozy evening treat or as a delicious addition to your holiday menu. The combination of rich maple syrup and sweet chestnuts creates a unique and tantalizing flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup roasted and chopped chestnuts
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped chestnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Chestnut and Rum Soaked Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the rich sweetness of chestnuts and the warmth of rum, making it a perfect dessert for chilly winter nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup cooked and mashed chestnuts
– 1/4 cup dark rum
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, eggs, mashed chestnuts, and rum. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Layered Chestnut and Mascarpone Cake
This decadent dessert combines the warmth of roasted chestnuts with the creamy richness of mascarpone cheese, resulting in a show-stopping cake that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, separated
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup roasted chestnuts, peeled and chopped
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
4. Beat egg yolks with butter until smooth. Add chopped chestnuts, mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
5. Gradually add flour mixture to the egg yolk mixture, beating until just combined.
6. Fold in beaten egg whites.
7. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Smooth tops.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chestnut and Cinnamon Roll Cake
This moist and aromatic cake combines the warmth of cinnamon with the natural sweetness of chestnuts, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup chestnut puree (canned or fresh)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and cinnamon.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, egg, chestnut puree, and salt.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dark Chocolate Chestnut Torte
This indulgent dessert combines the deep flavor of dark chocolate with the earthy sweetness of chestnuts, creating a sophisticated and satisfying treat. Perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (250g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) chestnut puree
– 1/2 cup (60g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 and 3/4 cups (210g) all-purpose flour
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl; let cool slightly.
5. Fold chestnut puree into the egg mixture. Add melted chocolate and whisk until combined.
6. Gradually add flour mixture to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chestnut and Pear Upside-Down Cake
Moist and flavorful, this cake is perfect for the fall season with its combination of roasted chestnuts and sweet pears. The caramelized fruit on top adds a delightful textural element.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) roasted chestnuts, chopped
– 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup (50g) unsalted butter, melted
– 3/4 cup (180ml) brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Arrange pear slices in the prepared pan, leaving a 1-inch (2.5cm) border around the edges.
3. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Fold in chopped chestnuts. Pour batter over pears and smooth top.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before flipping onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Mini Chestnut Cupcakes with Chestnut Frosting
These bite-sized treats are perfect for the holiday season, combining the comforting flavors of roasted chestnuts with a hint of spice. Moist and fluffy cupcakes are topped with a rich and creamy frosting that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
For the cupcakes:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup roasted chestnut puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons roasted chestnut puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in chestnut puree and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until creamy. Beat in chestnut puree and vanilla extract.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes per batch of cupcakes.
Chestnut and Rosemary Infused Cake
Elevate your baking game with this unique and aromatic cake, infused with the warmth of chestnuts and the herbal notes of rosemary. This moist and flavorful dessert is perfect for a cozy evening or as a special occasion treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup cooked chestnuts, mashed
– 2 tablespoons rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, mashed chestnuts, chopped rosemary, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared cake pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 18 delicious chestnut cake recipes perfect for autumn baking. From classic French and Japanese-inspired treats to spiced, sweet, and savory options, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at traditional cakes like Mont Blanc or Chestnut Flour Cake, or get creative with unique flavor combinations like Spiced Chestnut and Chocolate or Honey Glazed Chestnut Pound Cake. With a range of dietary options, including vegan and gluten-free, you’ll find the perfect cake to satisfy your autumn cravings.
