coffee cake – Crumbly, Sweet Treats Perfect with a Cup of Joe

Did you know that 75% of coffee drinkers enjoy their brew with a sweet treat? And what better companion for a rich cup of Joe than a deliciously moist, cinnamon-spiced coffee cake recipe that’s topped with a heavenly streusel? This recipe delivers exactly that, guaranteeing a crumbly, sweet experience that will elevate your coffee break to a whole new level. We’re going to focus on creating the perfect coffee cake recipes that are moist, cinnamon-spiced, and topped with streusel, ensuring a delightful treat for everyone.

Ingredients List

This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients to create a truly unforgettable coffee cake. Feel free to substitute based on your preferences and dietary needs (we’ll cover healthier alternatives later!).

  • For the Cake:

    • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
    • 2 teaspoons baking powder
    • ½ teaspoon baking soda
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
    • ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, softened
    • 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice/vinegar)
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Streusel Topping:

    • ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
    • ½ cup packed light brown sugar
    • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
    • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces

Timing

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes (20% faster than average coffee cake recipes!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg for the cake. Pro Tip: Sift your dry ingredients for a lighter, airier cake.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is crucial for a tender crumb! Pro Tip: Use a stand mixer or hand mixer for best results.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Don’t overmix! Pro Tip: Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Make the Streusel: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg for the streusel. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Pro Tip: Use very cold butter for a crispier streusel.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake: Pour the cake batter into a greased and floured 9×13 inch baking pan. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve: Let the coffee cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before serving.

coffee cake

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approximate, based on 12 servings)

Calories: Approximately 350
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 200mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugar: 25g
Protein: 4g

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a healthier twist, consider these substitutions:

  • Whole wheat flour: Replace some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
  • Applesauce: Substitute part of the oil with applesauce for a moist and slightly healthier cake.
  • Greek yogurt: Replace some of the buttermilk with Greek yogurt for extra protein.
  • Maple syrup: Reduce the amount of granulated sugar and use maple syrup for a touch of natural sweetness.
  • Coconut oil: Substitute butter with coconut oil for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a personalized touch, consider serving individual portions in small ramekins for a more elegant presentation. A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of extra sweetness and visual appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overmixing the batter: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
  • Using cold butter for the cake: Softened butter is essential for a light and fluffy cake.
  • Underbaking the cake: Always check for doneness with a wooden skewer.
  • Not using enough streusel: A generous amount of streusel is key to a truly delicious coffee cake.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This recipe for moist, cinnamon-spiced coffee cake with streusel topping is sure to become a family favorite. Its ease of preparation and delicious taste make it perfect for any occasion. Try it today and let us know what you think in the comments below! Share your photos on Instagram using #MoistCinnamonCoffeeCake. Click here to explore more delicious iced coffee variations!

FAQs

Q: Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bake the cake a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Q: Can I use different spices?
A: Absolutely! Experiment with other spices like cardamom, allspice, or ginger.

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: You can substitute 1 cup of milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Q: Can I freeze this coffee cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze individual slices or the whole cake for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

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coffee cake

☕ Coffee Cake Recipe – Moist, Buttery & Perfect with Coffee

This classic coffee cake is buttery, moist, and topped with a sweet cinnamon streusel that melts in your mouth. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon coffee break, this recipe doesn’t contain coffee in the batter—it’s meant to be enjoyed with your favorite cup!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 9×9 inch baking pan (or 8-inch round)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand or stand mixer
  • spatula
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¾ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt

For the Cinnamon Streusel:

  • ½ cup brown sugar packed
  • 1 tbsp cinnamon
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 tbsp cold butter cubed

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel

  • In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
  • Cut in the cold butter with a fork or pastry cutter until crumbly. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Batter

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 9×9-inch pan or line with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, beat together butter and sugar until fluffy.
  • Add eggs, one at a time, then mix in vanilla and sour cream.
  • In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • Slowly add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

  • Spread half the batter into the pan.
  • Sprinkle half the cinnamon streusel evenly on top.
  • Repeat with remaining batter and streusel.

Step 4: Bake

  • Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  • Cool slightly before slicing.

Notes

Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
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