The BEST Coffee Cake | Our Family Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, indulgent treat to pair with your morning coffee or afternoon tea, this Coffee Cake recipe is a must-try. With its tender crumb, buttery streusel topping, and hint of cinnamon, this cake is a family favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. In this article, we’ll share our cherished family recipe, along with tips, variations, and FAQs to help you bake the perfect Coffee Cake. Let’s dive in!

What is Coffee Cake?

Coffee Cake is a moist, tender cake that’s typically enjoyed with coffee or tea. Despite its name, it doesn’t actually contain coffee—it’s named for its role as the perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee. The cake is often layered or topped with a sweet, crumbly streusel made from butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Some versions also include a swirl of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of glaze.

Key Features of Coffee Cake:

• Flavor Profile: Sweet, buttery, and spiced with cinnamon.
• Texture: Soft and moist cake with a crunchy streusel topping.
• Versatility: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Key Ingredients for Coffee Cake

To create the perfect Coffee Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Table 1: Ingredients for Coffee Cake

Why These Ingredients Work:

• Sour Cream or Yogurt: Adds moisture and tenderness to the cake.
• Cinnamon Streusel: Provides a sweet, crunchy contrast to the soft cake.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor.

How to Prepare – Step-by-Step Recipe

Follow these easy steps to create your own Coffee Cake:

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping

1. In a bowl, mix ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and ½ cup flour.
2. Cut in ¼ cup cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, and ¼ tsp salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream ½ cup unsalted butter with ¾ cup sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add 2 eggs, one at a time, followed by 1 tsp vanilla extract.
5. Mix in ½ cup sour cream or yogurt.
6. Alternately add the dry ingredients and ¼ cup milk, mixing until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan.
2. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter.
3. Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the streusel.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Add the Glaze (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, whisk 1 cup powdered sugar with 2-3 tbsp milk or cream and ½ tsp vanilla extract.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.

Tips for the Perfect Coffee Cake

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined.
• Layer the Streusel: Adding streusel in the middle and on top ensures every bite is flavorful.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Variations of Coffee Cake

1. Blueberry Coffee Cake

Add 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter for a fruity twist.

2. Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake

Mix ½ cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a decadent treat.

3. Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake

Replace the sour cream with pumpkin puree and add 1 tsp of pumpkin spice to the batter.

Does Coffee Cake Contain Proteins or Carbohydrates?

Yes, Coffee Cake contains both proteins and carbohydrates. Here’s a breakdown:

Table 2: Nutritional Overview (Per Slice)

While this cake is a treat, it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use buttermilk instead of sour cream?

Yes, buttermilk can be used as a substitute for sour cream to add moisture and tanginess.

2. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

3. How do I prevent my streusel from sinking into the cake?

Make sure the streusel is crumbly and not too wet. Also, avoid overmixing the batter.

4. Can I freeze Coffee Cake?

Yes, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion

This Coffee Cake recipe is a timeless classic that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. With its tender crumb, buttery streusel topping, and hint of cinnamon, it’s the perfect treat to enjoy with your morning coffee or as a dessert. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this cake is guaranteed to impress. Easy Vanilla Cake: A Simple Guide to Baking Perfection

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