A Classic Coffee Cake is the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or even an afternoon snack. With a soft, tender crumb and a buttery cinnamon-sugar streusel topping, this cake is comforting, slightly sweet, and pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or just want a simple dessert to enjoy, this coffee cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make it a staple recipe that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Coffee Cake
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Glaze (optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Make the Streusel Topping
- Prepare the Streusel: In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
Make the Cake
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
- Assemble the Cake: Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the streusel layer and gently spread it out. Sprinkle the rest of the streusel topping evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
Make the Glaze (optional)
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.
Tips for Perfect Coffee Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for the best mixing and texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to avoid a dense cake. Overmixing can make the cake tough.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baking powder and baking soda ensure that your cake rises properly and has a light, fluffy texture.
Recipe Variations
- Blueberry Coffee Cake: Fold 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter before baking for a fruity twist.
- Nutty Streusel: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping for extra crunch.
- Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake: Add 1 cup of diced apples and 1/2 tsp of nutmeg to the batter for an autumn-inspired version.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bake the coffee cake a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature, and glaze it just before serving.
Q: How do I store leftover coffee cake?
A: Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to 5 days—just bring it to room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I freeze coffee cake?
A: Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- With Coffee or Tea: Serve a slice of coffee cake with your favorite hot beverage for a perfect pairing.
- With Fresh Fruit: Add a side of fresh berries or sliced fruit to complement the sweetness of the cake.
- With Whipped Cream: Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
This Classic Coffee Cake is a comforting and versatile dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its tender crumb, buttery streusel topping, and simple glaze make it a crowd-pleaser that will delight everyone. Whether you’re making it for a weekend brunch or just a cozy afternoon at home, this coffee cake is sure to bring warmth and sweetness to your day. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every delightful bite!
