Coffee Cake

Coffee cake is a beloved classic that combines a rich, moist cake base with a sweet, crumbly streusel topping. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dessert, this cake brings a comforting touch to any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, this coffee cake recipe is sure to become a favorite.

What Makes Coffee Cake So Special?

The name “coffee cake” might suggest that it’s specifically made to pair with a cup of coffee, but this cake is versatile enough to be enjoyed with tea, juice, or on its own. What truly sets coffee cake apart is its light, tender crumb and the irresistible cinnamon-sugar streusel topping. The cake itself is not overly sweet, making it the perfect balance between dessert and breakfast pastry.

Ingredients for the Best Coffee Cake

For the cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream (for added moisture and richness)

For the streusel topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces

Instructions: How to Make Coffee Cake

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square baking pan to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set the streusel aside.

3. Make the Coffee Cake Batter

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Add the dry ingredients alternately with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

4. Layer the Cake and Streusel

Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top, and then finish with the rest of the streusel topping.

5. Bake the Coffee Cake

Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown, and the streusel should be crisp and slightly caramelized.

6. Cool and Serve

Let the coffee cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice into squares or wedges and serve.

Tips for Perfect Coffee Cake

• Sour Cream Substitutes: If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute with plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar texture and tang.
• Add-ins: Consider adding a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the streusel topping for extra crunch. You can also stir in some fresh berries or a swirl of cinnamon sugar in the middle for added flavor.
• Storage: Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.

Why You’ll Love This Coffee Cake Recipe

This coffee cake recipe is the perfect balance of moist cake and crunchy, sweet streusel. It’s easy to make, and the ingredients are pantry staples, so you can enjoy this treat whenever the craving strikes. Plus, the warm aroma of cinnamon and vanilla baking in the oven will have your whole kitchen smelling delicious.

Serving and Storage Tips for Coffee Cake

Serving Tips:

• Serve Warm: Coffee cake is best served slightly warm, so if you’ve made it ahead of time, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm the entire cake in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to bring back its moistness and fragrance.
• Pair with Beverages: As the name suggests, coffee cake pairs wonderfully with coffee, but it’s also delicious with tea, hot chocolate, or a cold glass of milk. For a refreshing twist, serve it with a glass of orange juice or fresh fruit.
• Toppings and Garnishes: You can add a dusting of powdered sugar on top of the cooled cake for extra sweetness or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. Fresh berries, like raspberries or blueberries, also make a great garnish for a touch of color and flavor.

Storage Tips:

• Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to eat the coffee cake within a few days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it covered to prevent it from drying out.
• Refrigeration: If you live in a warmer climate or want to store the cake for longer, you can refrigerate it. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place it in an airtight container. It will last up to a week in the fridge, though the texture may be slightly denser when chilled.
• Freezing for Later: To preserve your coffee cake for an extended period, freeze it. Slice the cake first, so you can easily thaw individual portions as needed. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The coffee cake will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let the slices thaw at room temperature, or reheat them in the microwave for a freshly baked taste.

By following these serving and storage tips, you’ll ensure that your coffee cake stays delicious and fresh, whether you’re enjoying it right away or saving some for later.

1. Can I make coffee cake ahead of time?

Yes! Coffee cake can be made in advance. If you’re preparing it for a special occasion or gathering, bake the cake the day before and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it and thaw it when needed.

2. Can I add other ingredients to the coffee cake batter?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your coffee cake by adding extras like chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds), raisins, or fresh berries. You can also swirl cinnamon or fruit preserves into the batter before baking for added flavor.

3. How do I keep the streusel topping from sinking into the cake?

To prevent the streusel from sinking into the cake, make sure the batter is thick enough when you layer the streusel on top. Additionally, you can reserve a little of the streusel to sprinkle on top after the cake has baked for a final crunch. If the streusel still sinks, it’s likely due to the batter being too runny, so try adding a bit more flour to thicken it.

4. Can I substitute sour cream in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt, buttermilk, or even a mixture of milk and a bit of lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor and moisture. However, sour cream provides a richer texture, so the substitution may slightly alter the cake’s consistency.

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