Prepare the Loaf Pan

1. Grease and Line: Grease a loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Preheat the Oven

2. Set Temperature: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).

Prepare the Walnuts

3. Crush Walnuts: Using a food processor or a pestle and mortar, crush the walnuts until they are coarsely ground.

Cream Butter and Sugar

4. Mix: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Add Eggs

5. Incorporate Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is well incorporated before adding the next.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients

6. Mix Dry Ingredients: Sift together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined.

Add Final Ingredients

7. Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla essence and yogurt, then fold in the crushed walnuts.

Fill the Loaf Pan

8. Pour the Batter: Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Bake

9. Cooking Time: Bake for about 60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.

Cool and Serve

10. Cooling: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Serving Suggestion: Serve slices of walnut loaf with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.