Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 10-in. tube pan.
Toss walnuts with 1/4 cup flour and set aside.
Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 5-7 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
Combine baking powder, salt, and remaining flour; add to the creamed mixture alternately with milk. Stir in the walnut mixture.
Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Combine sugar, egg whites, water, and cream of tartar in a saucepan. Beat over low heat until it reaches 160°F, about 9 minutes. Pour into a mixer, add vanilla, and beat until stiff peaks form. Spread over the cake and top with additional walnuts if desired.
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Black walnuts, scientifically known as Juglans nigra, are a type of wild walnut commonly found in North America. They are part of the Juglandaceae family and are known for their hard shells and distinct flavor.
Black walnuts are renowned for their strong, earthy flavor which is much more intense than the mild taste of English walnuts. Their unique scent and robust aroma make them a highly prized ingredient in cooking, especially in baked goods like cakes and bread, or as a topping for dishes like granola and yogurt.