Are you ready to bake a delicious classic coffee cake that will impress everyone? This delightful and easy recipe guide will take you through every step, from combining simple ingredients to the perfect bake. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this cake will be a crowd-pleaser. Grab your apron, and let’s get started! Your coffee breaks will never be the same again.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Any Occasion: This coffee cake is a delightful treat that fits any gathering, from brunches to afternoon teas.
- Easy to Make: The straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Moist and Flavorful: The combination of sour cream and butter ensures a moist cake with a rich flavor profile.
- Streusel Topping: The crunchy streusel adds a delicious texture and sweet cinnamon flavor that elevates the cake to the next level.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Classic Coffee Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
To make a great coffee cake, you need basic ingredients. All-purpose flour gives the cake structure. Granulated sugar adds sweetness. Softened butter helps create a fluffy texture. Sour cream keeps the cake moist and adds a tangy taste. Eggs bind the ingredients together. Vanilla extract gives a warm flavor. Baking powder and baking soda help the cake rise. Salt balances the sweetness. Ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice.
Ingredients for the Streusel Topping
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
The streusel topping is key for texture. Brown sugar gives a rich flavor. All-purpose flour creates a crumbly mix. Cold butter is important. It helps form clumps in the topping. Ground cinnamon in the streusel adds extra spice.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream
- Vegan butter alternatives
- Gluten-free flour options
You can swap ingredients for different diets. Greek yogurt works well if you're out of sour cream. It keeps the cake moist. If you need a vegan option, use plant-based butter. For gluten-free options, look for a good gluten-free flour blend. This will help you enjoy coffee cake no matter your needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating and Preparing the Baking Dish
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or a 9x9 inch square baking dish.
First, you need to get your oven ready. This step is important. Preheating ensures even baking. Greasing the pan helps the cake come out easily.
Making the Streusel Topping
- Combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
- Mix in cold cubed butter until crumbly.
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. This mixture gives the cake a sweet crunch. Now, add cold butter. Use a fork to mix until it looks like coarse crumbs. Set this aside for later.
Preparing the Cake Batter
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract.
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar. Mix until it feels light and fluffy. Next, add the eggs one at a time. Make sure each egg mixes well. Add sour cream and vanilla extract. Keep mixing until it's smooth.
Combining Ingredients
- Whisk together dry ingredients.
- Mix dry and wet ingredients until just combined.
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Slowly add this dry mix to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until both mixes come together. Don’t overmix; that helps keep the cake soft.
Assembling and Baking
- Layering the cake batter and streusel.
- Baking time and checking for doneness.
Pour half of the cake batter into your greased pan. Smooth it out evenly. Next, sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter. Pour the rest of the batter on top. Now, add the remaining streusel. Bake for 40-50 minutes. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Cooling and Serving
- Cooling time in the pan and on a wire rack.
- Slicing and serving suggestions.
Let the cake cool in the pan for about ten minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, slice the cake. Serve it plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy with coffee or tea for a perfect treat!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To make a great coffee cake, use room temperature ingredients. Cold butter and eggs can lead to a dense cake. Let them sit out for about 30 minutes before you start baking. This simple step helps the batter mix well and rise nicely.
Also, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until the ingredients blend together. Overmixing makes the cake tough. It’s okay if you still see a few flour streaks. The cake will turn out light and fluffy.
Enhancing the Flavor Profile
You can boost flavor by adding nuts or fruits to the batter. Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch. Fresh berries or diced apples give a sweet burst of flavor. You can mix in about a cup of your favorite fruit or nuts.
Try adding a splash of almond extract too. This small addition gives a lovely nutty taste that pairs well with coffee. Just one teaspoon can make a big difference in flavor.
Making Ahead and Serving Suggestions
If you have leftovers, store them properly. Place the coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps it fresh for up to three days. You can also wrap it in plastic wrap for added protection.
Coffee cake tastes great with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warm drink balances the sweetness of the cake. Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream for a special treat. Enjoy it during brunch or as an afternoon snack!
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better rise.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix the batter just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Customize Your Topping: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the streusel topping for an extra flavor boost and texture.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Variations
Chocolate Coffee Cake Variation
You can easily make a chocolate coffee cake. Start by adding cocoa powder to the batter. This gives the cake a rich, chocolate flavor. I suggest using about ½ cup of cocoa powder. You can also add chocolate chips to the streusel topping. This adds a fun surprise when you take a bite.
Fruit-Infused Coffee Cake
Another great twist is a fruit-infused coffee cake. You can incorporate berries or apples right into the batter. Adding about a cup of fresh or frozen berries works well. For apples, chop them finely and mix them in. You can also create a fruit layer within the cake. Just pour half of the batter, add a layer of fruit, and then top with the remaining batter.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Adaptations
If you need gluten-free options, use alternative flours. Almond flour or a gluten-free blend works great as substitutes. For a vegan version, replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of dairy. These changes let everyone enjoy this delicious cake!
Storage Information
Short-Term Storage
To keep your classic coffee cake fresh, store it at room temperature. Place it in an airtight container. This helps to maintain moisture and flavor. You can also wrap the cake in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for about three days.
Long-Term Storage
If you want to save some cake for later, freeze it. First, let the cake cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This protects it from freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Shelf Life
Your coffee cake will stay fresh for about three days at room temperature. If you freeze it, it can last up to three months. Keep an eye out for signs of spoilage. Look for a dry texture or off smells. If the cake seems hard or smells funny, it's best to toss it.
FAQs
What is coffee cake typically served with?
Coffee cake pairs well with several drinks. Here are some great options:
- Freshly brewed coffee
- Tea, like Earl Grey or chamomile
- Hot chocolate for a sweet twist
- Cold milk for a classic touch
These drinks enhance the cake's flavors and make for cozy moments.
Can I make coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make coffee cake ahead of time. Here are some tips:
- Bake the cake, then let it cool completely.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
- Store it in the fridge for up to three days.
- For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months.
This way, you can enjoy it later without losing taste.
How do I know when my coffee cake is done?
Check for doneness with these simple techniques:
- Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake.
- If it comes out clean, the cake is done.
- Look for a golden-brown top and a springy texture.
These signs ensure you have a perfectly baked cake.
Can I use a different pan size for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different pan sizes. Here’s what to adjust:
- For a 9-inch round pan, bake for 40-50 minutes.
- For a 9x13 inch pan, reduce baking time to 30-40 minutes.
- Always check for doneness with a toothpick.
This helps you use what you have at home.
What is the origin of coffee cake?
Coffee cake has a rich history. It began in Europe, especially Germany. Here’s a brief overview:
- Early recipes appeared in the 17th century.
- It was often served with coffee during gatherings.
- The cake varies by region, featuring local flavors.
This cake brings people together, making it special.
Classic coffee cake is simple yet delicious. We covered its main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make it tasty. You can enjoy it with your favorite drink or share it with friends. Remember to try different flavors and make it your own. With these tips, your coffee cake will impress everyone. Now, get baking and savor the delightful taste of your homemade coffee cak
Classic Coffee Cake Delight
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 cup packed brown sugar
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or a 9x9 inch square baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Add the cold cubed butter and use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is incorporated well. Then, add the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top, then sprinkle the rest of the streusel evenly over the cake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve.
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