Coffee Cake has always been my go-to indulgence for cozy mornings. This indulgent coffee cake featuring cinnamon and vanilla is the perfect treat for your mornings. With each bite, you experience a delightful combination of flavors, making it an ideal companion to your morning coffee or tea. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely become a new favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Coffee Cake

This Coffee Cake is not just any ordinary cake; it stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. Second, the moist texture paired with the sweet cinnamon filling creates a delightful experience in every bite. Third, it’s versatile enough to be served at brunches, afternoon teas, or even as a comforting dessert. Whether you prefer a traditional coffee crumb cake or a twist with chocolate chips, this recipe has you covered. It’s also a perfect opportunity to experiment with coffee-infused cake flavors!

Ingredients for Coffee Cake

Gather these items:

1/4 cup Light brown sugar
1/4 cup All-purpose flour
2 teaspoons Ground cinnamon
1 3/4 cups All-purpose flour
2 teaspoons Baking powder
3/4 teaspoon Salt
10 tablespoons Unsalted butter (softened)
3/4 cup Granulated sugar
1/4 cup Light brown sugar
2 large Eggs
2/3 cup Sour cream
2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
1/4 cup All-purpose flour
1/2 cup Light brown sugar
2 teaspoons Ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon Salt
6 tablespoons Unsalted butter (cold and diced)
1 cup Powdered sugar
2 tablespoons Whole milk
1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract

How to Make Coffee Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, 1/4 cup flour, and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Create the Streusel Topping: In a medium bowl, combine 1/4 cup flour, 1/2 cup light brown sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add 6 tablespoons diced cold butter and press until crumbly. Set aside.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 3/4 teaspoon salt.
Step 5: Beat the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 10 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup light brown sugar for about 3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Fold in 2/3 cup sour cream and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
Step 6: Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until combined.
Step 7: Layer the Cake: Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle the cinnamon filling on top.
Step 8: Finish with Batter and Streusel: Spread the remaining batter over the cinnamon filling and sprinkle the streusel topping evenly.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection: Bake for 55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes.
Step 10: Make Optional Glaze: Whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons whole milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cake.

Pro Tips for the Best Coffee Cake

Keep these in mind:

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or add chocolate chips for variations.

Best Ways to Serve Coffee Cake

Serve this Coffee Cake warm, drizzled with a sweet glaze, or with a dollop of whipped cream. It’s also fantastic paired with fresh fruits like berries or served alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea. For a unique twist, try serving it as a coffee-flavored pastry at your next brunch gathering!

How to Store and Reheat Coffee Cake

This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To enjoy it warm again, simply reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This method is perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Coffee Cake

What’s the secret to perfect Coffee Cake?

The secret to perfect Coffee Cake lies in the balance of moistness and texture. Using sour cream adds richness while keeping it tender. Additionally, the cinnamon filling and streusel topping create a delightful contrast that elevates the cake.

Can I make Coffee Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, making it an ideal option for brunch preparation.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Coffee Cake?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure not to overmix the batter and always preheat your oven. Additionally, check for doneness with a toothpick to prevent underbaking or overbaking your cake.

Variations of Coffee Cake You Can Try

There are countless variations of Coffee Cake you can explore. Consider trying a gluten-free coffee cake option using gluten-free flour. You can also create a mocha cake by adding cocoa powder and espresso to the batter or enjoy a coffee cake with cream cheese for added richness. Lastly, don’t forget about coffee cake variations like adding fruits or nuts to the mix for a delightful twist!