Welcome to the world of irresistible flavor! My Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake is a must-try for anyone who loves sweet, warm treats. With its rich cinnamon filling and buttery streusel topping, this cake is perfect for breakfast or dessert. You’ll find easy steps, delicious variations, and helpful tips to make it your own. Get ready to delight your taste buds and impress your loved ones with this tasty creation!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: This coffee cake has the perfect blend of warm cinnamon and sweet brown sugar, making it a delightful treat any time of day.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares, this cake is ideal for gatherings, brunches, or just enjoying with friends over coffee.
- Irresistible Texture: The moist cake paired with a crunchy streusel topping creates a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients
Key Ingredients for Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake
To make this cake, you need a few key ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
These ingredients create a moist cake with a sweet and crunchy topping.
Optional Ingredients for Additional Flavor
You can enhance your coffee cake with these optional ingredients:
- Chopped fruits like apples or pears
- A sprinkle of nutmeg for extra warmth
- A splash of almond extract for a nutty twist
These additions can change the cake's flavor and make it even more delightful.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need to substitute, here are some ideas:
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy flavor.
- Swap all-purpose flour for almond flour for a gluten-free option.
- Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier choice.
These swaps maintain the cake's tasty essence while catering to your needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation and Mixing Methods
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9x13 inch baking pan. Grease it with butter and dust it with flour. This stops the cake from sticking. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for about 3-4 minutes. The mix should be light and fluffy. Next, add the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until everything blends smoothly.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until combined. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients. Alternate with the sour cream. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. This keeps the cake light and fluffy.
How to Make the Streusel Topping
To make the streusel topping, take a small bowl. Combine the ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and chopped nuts if you choose to use them. Mix these ingredients until they are evenly distributed. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Baking the Coffee Cake
Pour half of the coffee cake batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly across the bottom. Now, sprinkle half of the streusel topping over this layer. Distribute it evenly. Next, gently pour the remaining batter over the streusel. Smooth the surface with a spatula.
Finish by adding the rest of the streusel topping on top of the batter. Place the baking pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To make your coffee cake soft and moist, use room temperature eggs and sour cream. This helps the batter mix well. Don’t overmix the batter! Mix just until combined. This keeps your cake light and fluffy. Also, be sure to cream the butter and sugar well. This adds air, giving you that nice rise.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftover coffee cake in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it well and freeze it. To reheat, place slices in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This brings back the warmth and makes it soft again.
Kitchen Tools to Use
Use these tools to make your baking easier:
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Toothpick (for testing doneness)
With the right tools, you’ll find baking fun and easy!
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature helps the batter to mix more evenly, resulting in a lighter and fluffier cake.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until no flour streaks remain. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
- Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts in the streusel topping. Almonds, pecans, or even hazelnuts can add unique flavors and textures.
- Check for Doneness: To ensure your coffee cake is perfectly baked, use a toothpick to test the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Variations
Gluten-Free Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake
You can make this cake gluten-free with a few swaps. Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour in place of regular flour. Look for a blend that has xanthan gum. This will help the cake hold together. You may need to bake it a bit longer. Keep an eye on it to ensure it cooks evenly.
Vegan Coffee Cake Versions
To create a vegan version, swap the eggs and butter. Use flax eggs instead of real eggs. For flax eggs, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes to thicken. Replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Use a dairy-free yogurt in place of sour cream. This keeps the cake moist and tasty.
Flavor Variations
You can play with flavors to make this cake your own. Add fruits like apples, blueberries, or bananas for a fruity twist. Mixing in spices like nutmeg or ginger can also add warmth. For extra crunch, try adding more nuts or seeds. Each variation brings a new taste that makes this cake even more special.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Coffee Cake
Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and moist. You can also wrap it in plastic wrap. Place it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want it to last longer, refrigeration is an option. Just remember that refrigeration can change the texture slightly.
Best Practices for Freezing
To freeze your coffee cake, cool it completely first. Cut it into slices or keep it whole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps prevent freezer burn. It can stay frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Shelf Life Information
The shelf life of this coffee cake is around three days at room temperature. In the fridge, it can last up to a week. If frozen, it keeps well for three months. Always check for signs of spoilage before serving. If it smells off or has changed in texture, it’s best to toss it out.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this coffee cake ahead of time. Bake it the day before you plan to serve it. Once it cools, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Store it at room temperature. This helps the flavors develop and the cake stays moist.
What can I serve with Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake?
This coffee cake pairs well with many drinks. Here are a few ideas:
- Freshly brewed coffee
- Hot tea
- A glass of milk
- Fruit, like berries or sliced apples
You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for extra fun!
How do I make it without sour cream?
If you want to skip sour cream, use plain yogurt instead. Greek yogurt works great. You can also mix milk with a tablespoon of vinegar to create a sour milk substitute. This keeps the cake moist and tasty.
Cinnamon streusel coffee cake features simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps. You learned how to prepare, bake, and store this tasty treat. I shared tips for the perfect texture and even offered gluten-free and vegan options.
With these insights, you can enjoy delicious variations and impress your friends. Remember, baking is fun and creative. I hope you feel inspired to try this recipe and share the joy of coffee cake with others.
