If you’re on the hunt for a delightful, comforting treat that perfectly pairs with your morning coffee or afternoon tea, look no further than this Classic Coffee Cake Recipe. This cake strikes the ideal balance between moist, tender crumb and a sweet, cinnamon-spiced streusel topping that adds the perfect crunch. It’s a timeless recipe that brings warmth and joy to any gathering or quiet moment, and trust me, once you try it, it will become one of your go-to recipes for breakfasts and cozy desserts alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Classic Coffee Cake Recipe are simple staples that you might already have in your pantry and fridge. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: from the tangy richness of sour cream to the spice-kissed crumbly streusel topping, they combine effortlessly to create incredible taste, texture, and color.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cake, creating a soft but sturdy crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise for that light and fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to create lift and softness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the batter.
- 1 cup sour cream: Keeps the cake tender and adds a subtle tangy note.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to a smooth texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with a warm, fragrant aroma.
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: For the streusel topping, bringing deep caramel flavor.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Combines with brown sugar for the crumbly streusel topping.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy, spicy kick that’s essential in the streusel.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Cut into the topping to create those irresistible crumbs and crunch.
How to Make Classic Coffee Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your coffee cake pops out effortlessly after baking. This step sets the stage for a flawless bake and easy serving later.
Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping
In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. This blend forms the base of your topping and infuses each bite with that classic coffee cake warmth.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter for Topping
Add the cold, cubed butter to the streusel mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This is what gives the topping its signature crumbly crunch — don’t rush this step!
Step 4: Whisk Dry Ingredients for the Cake
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures your leavening agents and salt are evenly distributed, which helps the cake bake uniformly.
Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients and Beat Batter
Incorporate the softened butter, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract into the dry mixture. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat until smooth and well combined. The batter should be thick but spreadable, signaling a perfect balance of moisture and structure.
Step 6: Assemble the Coffee Cake Layers
Spread half of the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle half of the streusel topping over it. Layer the remaining batter on top of the streusel, spreading it carefully to avoid mixing the layers. Finally, finish by sprinkling the remaining streusel over the top. This layered assembly guarantees a delicious contrast between tender cake and crunchy topping in every forkful.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake in your preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, let your coffee cake cool in the pan for a bit before slicing. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve. Patience here is key for that perfect slice.
How to Serve Classic Coffee Cake Recipe
Garnishes
While the Classic Coffee Cake Recipe is fabulous on its own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vanilla glaze can elevate its charm if you want to add a little extra flair. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of chopped nuts add a lovely pop of color and texture, turning your coffee cake into a feast for the eyes as well.
Side Dishes
Pair this coffee cake with a cup of your favorite brew—be it rich drip coffee, frothy cappuccino, or even chai tea—to complement the cinnamon and vanilla flavors. A creamy latte or a glass of fresh milk also makes a comforting sidekick that enhances every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleaser twist, cut the coffee cake into smaller squares and serve them bite-sized alongside fresh fruit or yogurt parfait. You can also layer slices with whipped cream and berries for a simple yet impressive dessert trifle that showcases this classic favorite in a whole new way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Classic Coffee Cake Recipe keeps beautifully at room temperature when covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prepping or sharing with friends throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to preserve your coffee cake longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and place it in the freezer. It can last up to 2 months frozen and still retain its moist, tender crumb and delicious streusel topping. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-baked warmth, reheat slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. This simple step brings back that soft texture and perfectly melted butter flavors that make this coffee cake so comforting.
FAQs
Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes! Plain full-fat yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and will maintain the cake’s moist texture and that subtle tangy flavor.
Is it possible to make this coffee cake gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend and ensure your baking powder and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free to enjoy this recipe without wheat.
Can I add nuts or fruit to the batter?
Definitely. Chopped walnuts or pecans can be folded into the batter or streusel for extra crunch. Fresh berries or diced apples also make tasty additions that complement the cinnamon flavor.
How do I know when the coffee cake is done baking?
A simple toothpick test works best — insert a toothpick into the center and if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is perfectly baked.
Can I make this recipe as muffins?
Yes! Portion the batter into a greased or lined muffin tin, sprinkle the streusel on top, and bake for about 20-25 minutes at 350°F until a toothpick comes out clean.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Coffee Cake Recipe is truly a wonderful slice of nostalgia and comfort wrapped into one. Whether you’re serving it for a weekend brunch or just craving a sweet pick-me-up, it delivers reliable, delicious results every time. I absolutely encourage you to try this recipe and watch as it becomes an instant favorite among your family and friends. Happy baking!
Print
Classic Coffee Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Classic Coffee Cake is a moist and tender cake layered with a sweet cinnamon streusel topping. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat, it combines the richness of sour cream and butter with a delightful crumbly cinnamon sugar topping baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Streusel Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the light brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon. Cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the softened butter, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Coffee Cake: Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter. Carefully spread the remaining batter over the streusel layer, followed by the remaining streusel topping on top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the coffee cake to cool in the baking dish before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
- You can add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the streusel topping for extra crunch.
- Make sure the butter for the streusel is cold for the best crumbly texture.
- Use sour cream or Greek yogurt interchangeably for moistness.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Reheat slices gently in the microwave for a warm treat.
