Best Coffee Cake Recipe
If you have been searching for that perfect morning treat or a cozy dessert to share, look no further than this Best Coffee Cake Recipe. It combines a tender, moist crumb with a delectably cinnamon-spiced streusel topping that adds just the right amount of crunch and sweetness. Every bite feels like a warm hug, bringing together simple ingredients in a way that makes your kitchen smell heavenly and your taste buds dance with joy. This coffee cake is the kind of crowd-pleaser that will become a beloved staple for breakfast, brunch, or any sweet moment you want to celebrate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating a coffee cake that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Each element plays its part, from the creamy softness of butter and sour cream, which keep the cake moist, to the perfectly balanced cinnamon in the streusel that adds a delightful spice and texture contrast.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides rich flavor and tenderness to the cake.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter evenly for that classic coffee cake taste.
- 2 large eggs: Help bind the ingredients while adding moisture and structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor profile with a warm vanilla note.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang, keeping the cake incredibly tender.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base structure, lending the perfect crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise for a light texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for lift and softness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Sweetens and adds a hint of molasses flavor to the streusel.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Blends into the streusel for an extra crisp topping.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon: Infuses that signature spicy warmth.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Combines with sugars to create the perfect crumbly streusel.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the streusel ingredients and adds richness.
How to Make Best Coffee Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9 by 13-inch baking dish. This ensures your cake will bake evenly and release easily once it’s done, so no one misses out on a perfect slice.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy — this is key for a tender crumb. Beat in the eggs one at a time so everything blends smoothly, then mix in the vanilla extract and luscious sour cream to keep the batter moist and flavorful.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt thoroughly. Gradually add these dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir just until combined. You want to avoid overmixing to preserve that soft cake texture.
Step 4: Make the Streusel Topping
Time for the star of your Best Coffee Cake Recipe – the irresistible streusel! Mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and flour in a medium bowl. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs that will bake into a crunchy, flavorful topping.
Step 5: Layer and Assemble
Spread half of the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the streusel over the top, then add the remaining batter and finish by topping with the rest of the streusel. This layering creates that perfect swirl of soft cake and crispy topping in every bite.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake your coffee cake for 35 to 40 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – if it comes out clean, your cake is ready! Let it cool slightly so the flavors settle, and the topping crisps up just right before serving.
How to Serve Best Coffee Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty, sweet finish, or try a light glaze made from powdered sugar and a touch of milk for extra shine and sweetness. A few fresh berries on the side also brighten up each slice and add a pop of color.
Side Dishes
Pair your coffee cake with a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a classic combo. For a heartier meal, a bowl of yogurt or some fresh fruit can balance the sweetness while keeping things fresh and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, cut the coffee cake into mini squares and serve them on a beautiful tiered platter. Or offer it alongside an assortment of jams and whipped cream so guests can customize their bites. Turning your Best Coffee Cake Recipe into a sharing experience makes it even more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover coffee cake fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to extend its life, refrigeration will work too, though you might want to bring the slices back to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezing
This cake freezes wonderfully! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, and you’ll have a ready-made treat waiting for you.
Reheating
To revive the warmth and softness, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a warm oven for a few minutes. This refreshes the cake’s texture, making it almost like newly baked.
FAQs
Can I substitute sour cream in this recipe?
Yes! Greek yogurt works beautifully as a substitute, offering a similar tang and moisture. Just use it in an equal amount to maintain the texture and flavor.
Is this coffee cake suitable for freezing before baking?
You can freeze the assembled coffee cake before baking. Cover it tightly and freeze, then bake it directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How can I make the streusel topping crunchier?
For an extra crunchy streusel, try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. You can also increase the cinnamon a bit for a spicier kick that complements the crunch.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, you can enjoy this coffee cake without gluten. Just be sure to check that your baking powder and baking soda are gluten-free.
How should I serve leftover coffee cake to keep it moist?
Serving leftover coffee cake slightly warmed, maybe with a little butter or cream cheese spread, helps bring back that fresh-baked feel and keeps each bite moist and delightful.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with a bake that feels just a little special but is surprisingly simple, this Best Coffee Cake Recipe is your new go-to. It’s a warm, comforting treat that turns any ordinary day into a celebration. Grab your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy every bite of this deliciously crumbly, soft, and flavorful coffee cake. You’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Best Coffee Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This BEST Coffee Cake recipe is a moist and tender cake with a delightful cinnamon streusel topping, perfect for breakfast or brunch. It features a creamy sour cream batter layered with a sweet cinnamon-sugar crumb topping and baked to golden perfection in a 9×13-inch pan.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter for a tender cake.
- Add eggs and flavoring: Add eggs to the creamed mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and then the sour cream, mixing until smooth and well combined.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents and salt.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently just until no flour streaks remain. Do not overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Prepare the streusel topping: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble the cake layers: Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter. Spread the remaining batter on top, then finish by sprinkling the remaining streusel evenly over the surface.
- Bake the coffee cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the pan before slicing and serving warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- For an extra moist cake, ensure sour cream is at room temperature before mixing.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- This coffee cake pairs beautifully with morning coffee or tea.
- Optional: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the streusel for added crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
