Irresistible Coffee Cake Recipe You’ll Want to Bake Again and Again – So Easy and Delicious!
Craving a sweet, simple treat? This easy coffee cake recipe is soft, streusel-topped, and perfect for any occasion. Try it and impress your taste buds.
Introduction
There's something magical about a warm, freshly baked coffee cake that fills the house with a comforting aroma. Whether it's a lazy Sunday morning, a cozy afternoon with friends, or a special family gathering, this easy coffee cake is the perfect companion to your favorite cup of coffee or tea. I love how the tender crumb and sweet cinnamon streusel topping come together to create a delightful treat that's both simple to make and utterly delicious. Plus, it comes together in just about an hour, making it an ideal choice for those moments when you want something homemade without spending all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- All-purpose flour: 2½ cups (312g) – Provides the structure for the cake.
- Granulated sugar: 1½ cups (300g) – Sweetens the batter.
- Baking powder: 2 teaspoons – Helps the cake rise.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon – Enhances the flavors.
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (227g), softened – Adds richness and moisture.
- Eggs: 3 large – Bind the ingredients together.
- Sour cream: 1 cup (240g) – Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon – Adds depth of flavor.
For the Streusel Topping:
- Light brown sugar: 1 cup (200g), packed – Sweetens and adds a slight molasses flavor.
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup (125g) – Forms the streusel base.
- Ground cinnamon: 1 tablespoon – Provides a warm, spicy kick.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon – Balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup (113g), melted – Binds the streusel ingredients.
Prep Time & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Prepare the Streusel Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Add the melted butter and mix until the mixture forms moist clumps. Set aside.
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Make the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
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Assemble the Cake: Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top, smoothing it out, and then sprinkle the rest of the streusel evenly over the top.
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Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the coffee cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Then, remove it from the pan and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips & Tricks
- Add Nuts: For a delightful crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the streusel topping before baking.
- Fruit Filling: Incorporate a layer of fruit preserves, such as raspberry or apricot, between the batter layers for added flavor.
- Spice Variations: Experiment with adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the streusel for a unique twist.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the cake the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
- Freezing: This coffee cake freezes well. Wrap slices individually and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh berries to add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Yogurt Parfait: Pair with a yogurt parfait for a balanced breakfast or brunch.
- Herbal Tea: Enjoy with a cup of chamomile or mint tea for a soothing experience.
- Ice Cream: Top a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Storage & Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store the coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition Info
Per serving (based on 12 servings):