There is nothing quite like starting your morning with a warm slice of coffee cake that feels like a cozy hug from the inside out. This recipe, known simply as The BEST Coffee Cake Recipe, brings together tender crumb, buttery richness, and a perfectly spiced streusel topping that combines to create a breakfast treat you’ll crave again and again. Whether you’re serving it for a special brunch or a casual coffee break, this cake’s moist texture and cinnamon-swirled goodness truly make it unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe comes together beautifully, showcasing how each component plays an essential role in flavor and texture. From the richness of butter to the tangy depth of sour cream, every ingredient is a star.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a creamy base that contributes to the cake’s moist crumb and buttery flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps create a light, fluffy texture.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness and structure to the cake.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, aromatic notes.
- 1 cup sour cream: This ingredient adds moisture and a gentle tang that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cake its structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise evenly and become light and airy.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for the perfect lift and crumb.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Key ingredient for the streusel that brings a deep caramel flavor and chewy texture.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the streusel topping with an added crunch.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon: Infuses the streusel with warm spice, the signature flavor of coffee cake.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Gives body to the streusel, helping it form perfect crumbly bits.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the streusel ingredients together and adds richness.
How to Make The BEST Coffee Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish ensures your beautiful cake won’t stick, paving the way for easy serving and clean slices later on.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the batter, resulting in the tender crumb that makes this The BEST Coffee Cake Recipe so magical.
Step 3: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Sour Cream
One at a time, mix in the eggs, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream. The sour cream in this recipe is a secret weapon that keeps the cake moist and gives it a subtle tang that elevates the overall flavor.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Overmixing here can lead to a tougher cake, so handle with care to keep the texture delightfully soft.
Step 5: Make the Streusel Topping
In a medium bowl, mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This streusel topping is the true star of The BEST Coffee Cake Recipe, delivering that irresistible crunch and sweet spice that we’re all here for.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the streusel over the batter, add the remaining batter on top, and finish with the rest of the streusel. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the aroma fills your kitchen with warmth and delicious anticipation.
How to Serve The BEST Coffee Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving, consider dusting the finished cake lightly with powdered sugar or adding a drizzle of vanilla glaze. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream alongside a slice can also add a fresh and indulgent touch that guests will adore.
Side Dishes
The BEST Coffee Cake Recipe pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, naturally. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, or even a simple scramble for a balanced and inviting meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the cake into bite-sized squares and serving them on a platter for easy snacking, or assemble mini layers with a dash of cream cheese frosting between for an elegant twist. Wrapping slices in parchment paper tied with twine also makes a charming take-home gift for friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your coffee cake fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also refrigerate if your kitchen is warm, but be sure to allow the cake to return to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slightly before serving.
Reheating
Warm slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven feeling. You can also heat them gently in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes wrapped in foil to keep the cake moist and tender.
FAQs
Can I substitute the sour cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute that will maintain moisture and add a slight tang, keeping the cake just as tender and flavorful.
Is this recipe suitable for making muffins instead of a cake?
Yes! Simply divide the batter evenly into a greased or lined muffin tin and adjust the baking time to around 18-22 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness.
How do I get the streusel to be crunchy?
Make sure your butter is melted but not too hot when mixing the streusel. Combine until just crumbly; too much mixing can cause it to clump and lose that perfect crumbly texture.
Can I add nuts to the streusel?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a wonderful crunch and enhance the flavor of the streusel topping without overpowering the cake.
What type of flour is best for this recipe?
All-purpose flour is ideal for this coffee cake, yielding a tender yet structured crumb. Using cake flour will make it lighter, but the texture may be too delicate for the streusel layers.
Final Thoughts
There truly is a reason this lives up to being The BEST Coffee Cake Recipe. Its balance of buttery richness, the perfect streusel crunch, and moist, tender crumb will make it your go-to for cozy mornings and special gatherings alike. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a beloved classic in your kitchen too!
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The BEST Coffee Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Coffee Cake features a tender, moist crumb layered with a cinnamon-sugar streusel topping. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack alongside your favorite cup of coffee, this recipe combines the richness of sour cream and the warm flavors of cinnamon for a comforting treat that’s easy to make and loved by all.
Ingredients
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: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures the cake has a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream to enrich the batter and add moisture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Prepare Streusel Topping: In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Stir in melted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, creating a crumbly topping.
- Layer Batter and Streusel: Spread half of the batter evenly into the baking dish. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter, then add the remaining batter. Finish by sprinkling the rest of the streusel on top for a crunchy crust.
- Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is done.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the coffee cake to cool slightly in the pan before slicing and serving warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can toast the streusel topping briefly before adding it to the batter.
- Make sure not to over mix the batter to keep your cake light and fluffy.
- This cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Leftovers can be reheated gently in the microwave for a warm treat.
