Coffee cake is a classic treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its soft, cinnamon-sugar flavor, it’s a great choice for breakfast, brunch, or just a cozy snack. This easy recipe is quick to make and delicious to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether you like it plain or with a sweet glaze, it’s a versatile cake that everyone will love. Let’s get started!
Why We Love This Coffee Cake
Coffee cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a cozy experience in every bite. Whether you’re sharing it with family over the weekend or enjoying it solo with your morning coffee, this cake is a delightful treat that never goes out of style. Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:
Endless Possibilities: Coffee cake is incredibly versatile! You can top it with a sweet glaze, add a streusel topping for extra crunch, or switch things up with fruits like apples or berries. It’s all about making it your own.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From lazy mornings to brunch gatherings, this moist and tender coffee cake is versatile. It pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, making it the perfect companion for your favorite beverage.
Simple to Make: With basic ingredients like flour, butter, sugar, and cinnamon, you don’t need to be a professional baker to create a delicious treat. The easy-to-follow instructions ensure that you can bake this cake without any stress.
Irresistibly Moist and Flavorful: The combination of butter and cinnamon creates a soft crumb with just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, it’s so easy to customize with add-ins like nuts or fruit if you want to give it your own twist.
Crowd-Pleasing: This recipe is a hit with everyone—whether you’re baking it for a family gathering, a brunch with friends, or just a cozy treat for yourself. Its familiar flavors and warm aroma will fill your kitchen with comfort and make everyone smile.
Ingredients for Coffee Cake
This coffee cake comes together with just a handful of basic ingredients, making it simple yet delicious. Here’s what you’ll need to create this perfect treat:
All-purpose flour – Gives the cake a soft texture.
Baking powder – Helps the cake rise.
Baking soda – Works with the baking powder to lift the cake.
Salt – Enhances the flavor.
Unsalted butter – Adds moisture and flavor.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake.
Brown sugar – Adds richness and moisture.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients and add texture.
Vanilla extract – Adds flavor.
Sour cream – This keeps the cake moist.
Instructions for Coffee Cake
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring everything together and bake this delicious coffee cake! Follow these simple steps to create the perfect treat:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the pan by greasing a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or lining it with parchment paper.
Mix dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt) in a bowl.
Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add eggs and vanilla and mix until combined.
Combine wet and dry ingredients, alternating with sour cream. Mix until just combined.
Bake the cake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool the cake for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Drizzle with glaze or sprinkle with brown sugar if desired.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Coffee Cake
Want to ensure your coffee cake turns out absolutely perfect every time? Here are some expert tips and tricks that will take your baking skills to the next level:
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Always make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them incorporate better into the batter, giving the cake a lighter, fluffier texture. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to seize up, leading to a denser cake.
Don’t Overmix the Batter
When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to a tough, rubbery cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, and you’ll have a tender crumb.
Add a Streusel Topping
For extra flavor and texture, try adding a streusel topping. Mix together some brown sugar, butter, flour, and a pinch of cinnamon. Sprinkle it over the top of the cake before baking for a sweet, crunchy finish.
For a Moist Cake, Don’t Skip the Sour Cream
The sour cream in this recipe is what keeps the cake moist and tender. Don’t substitute it with yogurt, as it can alter the texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can use buttermilk, but sour cream gives the best results.
Test for Doneness
Use a toothpick or cake tester to check for doneness. Insert it into the center of the cake, and if it comes out clean (with just a few moist crumbs), your cake is ready! If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Let It Cool Before Serving
While it’s tempting to dive in right away, allowing your coffee cake to cool slightly before slicing it will ensure cleaner cuts and better flavor. Plus, it gives the cake time to set, making it easier to serve.
Variations to Customize Your Coffee Cake
While this classic coffee cake is absolutely delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to add your personal twist. Here are some fun variations you can try to elevate your coffee cake and make it even more unique:
Add Fresh Fruit
Incorporate your favorite fresh fruits into the batter for a burst of flavor. Blueberries, raspberries, or sliced apples work wonderfully in coffee cake. Just fold them into the batter before baking for a fruity, moist touch.
Try a Nutty Twist
Add a little crunch by folding in chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds. The nuts add both texture and flavor, complementing the cinnamon and sugar perfectly. You can also sprinkle them on top before baking for a crunchy topping.
Incorporate a Streusel Filling
If you love a sweet, crumbly layer, try adding a streusel filling to the cake. Simply prepare a streusel mixture with brown sugar, butter, flour, and cinnamon. Layer it in the middle of the batter before baking for a delightful surprise with every slice.
Add a Glaze or Icing
For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle your cooled coffee cake with a simple powdered sugar glaze. Combine powdered sugar with a little milk and vanilla to create a smooth, sweet topping. Alternatively, you can go for a cream cheese icing for a tangy twist.
Serving Suggestions for Coffee Cake
A warm, freshly baked coffee cake is a treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day, whether it’s a cozy breakfast, a snack with your afternoon coffee, or a sweet dessert. Here are some simple serving ideas that will elevate your coffee cake experience:
Pair with Coffee or Tea
Coffee cake is, of course, a classic pairing with coffee or tea. The rich flavors of the cake complement the warmth of your beverage, making it the perfect afternoon snack. Opt for a smooth medium roast coffee or a fragrant herbal tea like chamomile or earl grey for a delightful combo.
Serve with Fresh Berries
Fresh, juicy berries add a burst of color and freshness to your coffee cake. Consider serving your cake with a side of blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries. The tartness of the fruit balances the sweetness of the cake, making each bite feel even more refreshing.
Top with Whipped Cream
For a richer indulgence, serve your coffee cake with a dollop of whipped cream. You can sweeten the whipped cream with a touch of vanilla or cinnamon to enhance the flavor. For an even more decadent option, drizzle it with a bit of chocolate syrup.
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FAQs About Coffee Cake
To help you perfect your coffee cake, here are some frequently asked questions that will guide you through the baking process and beyond.
How do I make my coffee cake moist?
To ensure your coffee cake is wonderfully moist, the key is in the balance of ingredients. Make sure to use sour cream or buttermilk in the batter, as both provide moisture and tenderness. Don’t overmix the batter—this can cause the cake to become dense. Finally, avoid overbaking the cake. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Can I make coffee cake without eggs?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for an egg-free version of coffee cake, you can replace the eggs with a variety of alternatives. Some great substitutes include applesauce (1/4 cup per egg), mashed bananas, or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg). These alternatives work well without sacrificing flavor or texture.
How can I make coffee cake more flavorful?
If you want to boost the flavor of your coffee cake, try adding extra spices like nutmeg, ginger, or a touch of vanilla extract. You can also experiment with adding citrus zest—like orange or lemon—for a refreshing twist. Don’t forget the topping! A streusel topping with cinnamon and brown sugar adds a sweet crunch that enhances the cake’s overall flavor.
Can I use other types of flour for coffee cake?
Yes! If you’re looking to make a gluten-free coffee cake, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular all-purpose flour. For a healthier option, try whole wheat flour to add more fiber and a slightly nutty flavor. Keep in mind that these alternatives may slightly alter the texture, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid or baking time.
coffee cake
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp brown sugar for a slightly caramelized touch
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and has the perfect golden brown finish.
Prepare the Baking Pan
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easy to remove once it’s baked.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set this bowl aside. The cinnamon is what gives this cake its classic coffee cake flavor, so don’t skip it!
Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer. This step helps create that soft, moist texture we all love.
Add the Eggs and Vanilla
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for a warm, aromatic flavor.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing, which could make the cake dense.
Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
- Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. If you want to take it to the next level, drizzle it with a simple glaze or sprinkle with brown sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.