Who doesn’t love a warm, moist coffee cake to start the day? Whether you’re savoring it with your morning cup of coffee or serving it as a weekend treat, this classic coffee cake recipe is the perfect way to bring comfort and joy to your table. With its rich cinnamon streusel topping and fluffy texture, it’s better than anything you’d find at your favorite café—and you can make it right at home! Plus, this recipe is endlessly adaptable, so you can customize it to suit your taste. Let’s dive into the magic of creating a coffee cake that’s sure to become your go-to morning indulgence.
Table of Contents
Classic Coffee Cake : A Timeless Favorite
Coffee cake has a special way of bringing people together, whether it’s for a cozy family breakfast or an afternoon catch-up with friends. What makes this classic version so irresistible? Its tender crumb, rich cinnamon streusel, and buttery flavor that strike the perfect balance between sweet and comforting. Here’s what you need to know to make this timeless treat flawless every time:
What Sets Classic Coffee Cake Apart?
- The Streusel Topping: A crunchy, cinnamon-sugar layer that adds a delightful texture and aroma.
- The Moist Cake Base: Thanks to sour cream, this cake stays perfectly tender and rich.
- Versatile Appeal: Serve it warm for breakfast, or pair it with your afternoon coffee—it’s a win anytime.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix: To keep the cake light and fluffy, mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Layer the Streusel: Add half the streusel in the middle of the batter and the rest on top for an extra burst of cinnamon in every bite.
- Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This ensures the batter blends evenly and bakes perfectly.
With this classic recipe, you’ll have a coffee cake that’s as versatile as it is delicious—a treat that’ll keep everyone coming back for seconds!
Better-Than-Starbucks Coffee Cake: A Homemade Delight
If you’ve ever had a coffee cake at Starbucks, you know how tempting those sweet, crumbly treats can be. But what if I told you that you could make a better version at home, with the same comforting flavors and even more decadence? This homemade coffee cake recipe takes inspiration from the classic café favorite, but with a twist that’s sure to make it your new go-to.
Why This Coffee Cake Is Better Than Starbucks
- Freshness: There’s nothing like a freshly baked cake, straight from your oven. This homemade version is guaranteed to be much more flavorful than anything you’d find pre-made at the store.
- Bigger Crumb Topping: The crumbly streusel topping in this recipe is generous and perfect, adding a satisfying texture that melts in your mouth.
- Personalized Perfection: You control the ingredients, so you can adjust the sweetness, flavor, and toppings to match your exact preferences.
How to Make It Even More Starbucks-Worthy
- Add Nuts: For extra crunch and flavor, toss in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel.
- Use Coffee: To take it up a notch, consider adding a bit of brewed coffee to the batter for a deeper, richer flavor that pairs perfectly with your morning brew.
- Top It Off: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle a glaze over the top to make this cake look as good as it tastes.
Now you have a coffee cake that’s not only better than Starbucks but made with love—and it’s easy to customize for any occasion!
How to Store and Freeze Coffee Cake: Keep It Fresh
There’s nothing quite like the taste of freshly baked coffee cake, but sometimes you need to make it in advance—or you simply have leftovers. No worries! With the right storage methods, your homemade coffee cake can stay just as delicious as the first day you baked it. Here’s how to keep it fresh for longer and even freeze it for later enjoyment.
Storing Your Coffee Cake
- Room Temperature: If you plan to enjoy your coffee cake within a few days, simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 days.
- Avoid Refrigeration: Unless you’re trying to keep it for more than a few days, avoid refrigerating your coffee cake. The fridge can dry it out.
- Covering It Up: If you don’t have an airtight container, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to preserve its moisture.
Freezing Your Coffee Cake
- Let It Cool: Before freezing, allow your coffee cake to cool completely. Freezing it while still warm can cause condensation, which will affect the texture.
- Wrap It Right: Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. This double layer helps prevent freezer burn and keeps the cake fresh for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: To thaw, simply remove the cake from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours, or warm it in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F) for about 10 minutes.
With these simple storage and freezing tips, you can enjoy your coffee cake long after baking it, without losing any of that delicious, fresh flavor!
How to Adapt This Coffee Cake Recipe: Make It Your Own
One of the best things about coffee cake is its versatility. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking to make it healthier, more indulgent, or even allergen-friendly, this coffee cake can be customized to meet your needs. Here’s how you can get creative with the ingredients and flavors!
Flavor Variations
- Fruit Add-ins: Add fresh or frozen fruit like blueberries, raspberries, or sliced apples to the batter for a fruity twist. Just be sure to fold them in gently to prevent the batter from becoming too watery.
- Citrus Zest: A little lemon or orange zest in the batter can add a refreshing burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon streusel topping.
- Spices: Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom. They add a warm, aromatic layer to the coffee cake that’s perfect for fall or winter.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-Free: To make this coffee cake gluten-free, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid slightly.
- Vegan Version: For a vegan-friendly option, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, and use non-dairy milk and egg replacers like flax eggs or applesauce.
- Low-Sugar: If you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or stevia. Just remember that it may affect the texture slightly, so make adjustments gradually.
Make It for Special Occasions
- Festive Toppings: For a holiday coffee cake, consider adding a drizzle of glaze or sprinkling powdered sugar over the top for a festive touch.
- Baking for a Crowd: Double the recipe and bake it in a larger pan to make enough for family gatherings, brunches, or potlucks.
More Cakes to Serve with Coffee: Perfect Pairings for Your Morning Brew
If you’re planning a breakfast or brunch spread and want to offer more than just coffee cake, there are plenty of other cakes that pair beautifully with your morning coffee. Here are a few delicious options that complement the flavors of coffee cake and make for an irresistible coffee-and-cake combination.
1. Lemon Drizzle Cake
- Why it Works: The zesty, citrusy flavor of lemon provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet, cinnamon-spiced coffee cake.
- How to Serve: Slice it thin for a light, tangy treat that’s perfect with a strong cup of coffee.
2. Chocolate Loaf Cake
- Why it Works: If you’re a fan of indulgent flavors, chocolate and coffee are a classic pairing. The richness of the chocolate loaf cake will balance beautifully with the light texture of the coffee cake.
- How to Serve: Serve with a side of whipped cream or fresh berries for extra flair.
3. Cinnamon Roll Cake
- Why it Works: A soft, cinnamon-infused cake that mirrors the flavor profile of your coffee cake—if you love cinnamon, this is a must-try!
- How to Serve: This cake is even better when served warm, with a cup of coffee on the side to enhance the cozy vibe.
4. Carrot Cake
- Why it Works: The sweet, spiced carrot cake with its creamy frosting adds a slightly richer option to the table, complementing the lighter coffee cake with its dense texture.
- How to Serve: Top with chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra burst of flavor.
5. Banana Bread
- Why it Works: The natural sweetness of ripe bananas creates a soft, moist loaf that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee.
- How to Serve: Serve slices warm with a dab of butter for a comforting and simple treat.
With these additional cake options, you can create a delightful coffee-themed spread that satisfies all tastes. Whether you’re mixing in some citrus, chocolate, or spice, these cakes are sure to make your coffee break even more enjoyable.
Tips for This Coffee Cake: Secrets to Perfecting Your Bake
Making the perfect coffee cake might seem simple, but a few small tricks can take your baking from good to great. Here are some tips that will help you achieve a tender, flavorful, and beautifully textured coffee cake every time.
1. Measure Your Ingredients Accurately
- Why it’s Important: Baking is a science, so precise measurements are key to getting the right texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale for the most accurate results, especially for flour and sugar.
- Pro Tip: Spoon your flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid overpacking.
2. Room-Temperature Ingredients Are a Must
- Why it’s Important: Room-temperature butter, eggs, and sour cream incorporate better into the batter, creating a smoother texture and more even baking.
- Pro Tip: Take your butter and eggs out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start baking.
3. Don’t Skip the Streusel Layering
- Why it’s Important: Adding half of the cinnamon streusel mixture in the middle of the batter creates an even distribution of flavor throughout the cake. The second layer on top ensures a perfect finish.
- Pro Tip: Gently tap the pan on the counter before baking to help the streusel settle into the batter for a well-balanced cake.
4. Avoid Overbaking
- Why it’s Important: Overbaking will dry out your cake, so always check a few minutes before the suggested baking time. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Pro Tip: If you’re not sure, start checking around 5 minutes before the recommended time to ensure your coffee cake is perfectly moist.
5. Let It Cool Before Serving
- Why it’s Important: Although it’s tempting to dive into a warm slice, allowing the cake to cool for 10-15 minutes will help it set and make slicing easier.
- Pro Tip: Serve it slightly warm for the best texture, but never straight out of the oven.
These simple tips will help you master your coffee cake every time. From measuring ingredients to perfecting that irresistible crumb topping, small steps make a big difference in achieving bakery-worthy results!
Sour Cream Coffee Cake Ingredient Swaps: Customize Your Bake
The beauty of coffee cake lies in its versatility—you can easily swap ingredients to accommodate dietary preferences, availability, or just to experiment with new flavors. Here’s how you can modify the ingredients to make the recipe truly your own, while still keeping the rich, delicious coffee cake texture you love.
1. Swap the Sour Cream
- Why it works: Sour cream gives coffee cake its moist, tender crumb. But if you’re out or prefer a different option, you have alternatives!
- Options:
- Greek Yogurt: A great substitute for sour cream, offering the same tangy flavor and creamy texture.
- Buttermilk: Another option that adds a bit of acidity and moisture, making the cake just as tender.
- Crème Fraîche: A slightly richer option, which can enhance the cake’s flavor.
2. Replace Butter with a Plant-Based Alternative
- Why it works: If you need a dairy-free or vegan option, replacing butter is easy. Plant-based alternatives can provide similar richness and flavor.
- Options:
- Vegan Butter: Easily replace butter with a dairy-free version for a 1:1 swap.
- Coconut Oil: Adds a subtle coconut flavor and works well in baking, but it can change the texture slightly.
- Applesauce: If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, applesauce can replace some or all of the butter while keeping the cake moist.
3. Sugar Substitutes for a Healthier Option
- Why it works: For those watching their sugar intake, swapping in a natural sweetener can still give you that sweet, satisfying flavor.
- Options:
- Maple Syrup or Honey: Use less of these liquid sweeteners in place of sugar, but reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe by a couple of tablespoons.
- Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener: These calorie-free options work well in smaller quantities, but may alter the texture slightly, so test them out.
4. Add a Nutty Twist to the Streusel
- Why it works: Adding nuts to the cinnamon streusel topping not only adds flavor but also gives a nice crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft cake.
- Options:
- Chopped Walnuts or Pecans: These nuts add a delicious crunch and earthy flavor.
- Almonds: For a slightly sweet, toasted taste that complements the cinnamon.
5. Flour Alternatives for Gluten-Free Baking
- Why it works: If you need a gluten-free coffee cake, simply swap the regular flour with a gluten-free alternative.
- Options:
- Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: Use a cup-for-cup swap, but be sure to check the instructions on your flour blend for any necessary adjustments.
- Almond Flour or Coconut Flour: Both provide a nutty flavor, but you may need to adjust the liquid in the recipe, as they absorb moisture differently.
With these ingredient swaps, you can easily make this coffee cake recipe work for various dietary preferences, giving you the freedom to enjoy a delicious, customized version of your favorite treat!
Classic Coffee Cake: The Timeless Favorite
A classic coffee cake is the epitome of comfort food—a simple yet delicious treat that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or an afternoon tea. The combination of tender cake, cinnamon streusel, and a light dusting of powdered sugar makes it a timeless favorite. Here’s how to bring this comforting classic to life with a few easy steps.
What Makes Classic Coffee Cake So Special?
- Tender Crumb: The beauty of this cake lies in its soft, moist texture that’s light but not too airy. The addition of sour cream or yogurt (depending on your choice) creates a cake that’s incredibly moist without being overly heavy.
- Cinnamon Streusel: The crumble topping is the star of this recipe. The mix of brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter creates a sweet, spiced crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth cake beneath.
- Simple Ingredients: This classic version relies on pantry staples—flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and sour cream. No need for fancy ingredients; it’s all about letting these basic items shine together.
Baking Tips for a Perfect Classic Coffee Cake
- Cream the Butter and Sugar Well: To achieve a light and fluffy texture, make sure to cream the butter and sugar together until light and airy before adding the eggs. This step helps create that perfect crumb texture.
- Layer the Streusel Evenly: For an even distribution of cinnamon and sugar throughout the cake, be sure to sprinkle the streusel mixture in layers—half in the middle of the batter and the rest on top.
- Test for Doneness: Since the cake is moist, it’s essential to check for doneness using a toothpick or cake tester. When it comes out clean (or with just a few moist crumbs), the cake is ready to come out of the oven.
This classic coffee cake is perfect for any occasion—a quick morning breakfast, a special brunch, or just when you want a comforting slice of something sweet. The flavors are familiar and comforting, but with a homemade touch that makes it feel extra special.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need for the Best Coffee Cake
Before you begin, gather these simple ingredients to make a coffee cake that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. Each one plays a role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of the cake, giving it structure without making it too dense.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: To help the cake rise and achieve a soft, light texture.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: A bit of baking soda balances the acidity in the sour cream for a fluffy crumb.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth and spice to the flavor profile of the cake.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances out the other flavors in the cake.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature): Butter is key to a moist cake with rich flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake, helping the texture stay tender.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs contribute to structure, binding the ingredients together.
- 1 cup sour cream: Ensures a moist and tender cake with a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A classic flavor enhancer that complements the cinnamon and butter.
For the Streusel Topping
- ¾ cup brown sugar (packed): Adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized, crunchy topping.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Works with the sugar and butter to form the perfect streusel crumble.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Cinnamon ties the streusel to the flavor of the cake, creating a harmonious cinnamon-sugar crunch.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into small cubes): Cold butter gives the streusel its crumbly texture and rich flavor.
Optional Garnish
- Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate, sweet finish to the top of your coffee cake, enhancing its visual appeal.
Each ingredient is carefully selected to help you bake the perfect coffee cake. From the soft, moist cake to the cinnamon-streusel topping, these simple yet powerful ingredients come together to create an unforgettable treat. Enjoy assembling and baking your coffee cake—your kitchen is about to smell amazing!
Method: How to Make the Perfect Coffee Cake
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to get baking! Follow these simple steps to make the best coffee cake that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping
- In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon for the streusel topping.
- Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Set the streusel aside and get ready to make the cake batter.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan (or a round cake pan) with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Add the vanilla extract, followed by the sour cream, mixing until the batter is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Coffee Cake
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle half of the streusel mixture over the batter.
- Add the remaining cake batter, spreading it gently to cover the streusel layer.
- Top with the rest of the streusel, ensuring an even coating across the top.
Step 4: Bake and Check for Doneness
- Bake the coffee cake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- If you notice the top is browning too quickly, cover the cake loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Let the coffee cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish, if desired.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy with a fresh cup of coffee or tea!
Following these steps will give you a coffee cake with a perfect crumb, a buttery cinnamon streusel topping, and an irresistible flavor. Enjoy the process—baking this delicious cake is as fun as eating it!
coffee cake recipe
Ingredients
Ingredients: What You’ll Need for the Best Coffee Cake
- Before you begin gather these simple ingredients to make a coffee cake that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. Each one plays a role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of the cake giving it structure without making it too dense.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: To help the cake rise and achieve a soft light texture.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: A bit of baking soda balances the acidity in the sour cream for a fluffy crumb.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth and spice to the flavor profile of the cake.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances out the other flavors in the cake.
- 1 cup unsalted butter room temperature: Butter is key to a moist cake with rich flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake helping the texture stay tender.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs contribute to structure binding the ingredients together.
- 1 cup sour cream: Ensures a moist and tender cake with a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A classic flavor enhancer that complements the cinnamon and butter.
For the Streusel Topping
- ¾ cup brown sugar packed: Adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized, crunchy topping.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Works with the sugar and butter to form the perfect streusel crumble.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Cinnamon ties the streusel to the flavor of the cake creating a harmonious cinnamon-sugar crunch.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter cold, cut into small cubes: Cold butter gives the streusel its crumbly texture and rich flavor.
Optional Garnish
- Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweet finish to the top of your coffee cake, enhancing its visual appeal.
- Each ingredient is carefully selected to help you bake the perfect coffee cake. From the soft moist cake to the cinnamon-streusel topping, these simple yet powerful ingredients come together to create an unforgettable treat. Enjoy assembling and baking your coffee cake—your kitchen is about to smell amazing!
Instructions
Method: How to Make the Perfect Coffee Cake
- Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to get baking! Follow these simple steps to make the best coffee cake that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping
- In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon for the streusel topping.
- Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Set the streusel aside and get ready to make the cake batter.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan (or a round cake pan) with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Add the vanilla extract, followed by the sour cream, mixing until the batter is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Coffee Cake
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle half of the streusel mixture over the batter.
- Add the remaining cake batter, spreading it gently to cover the streusel layer.
- Top with the rest of the streusel, ensuring an even coating across the top.
Step 4: Bake and Check for Doneness
- Bake the coffee cake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- If you notice the top is browning too quickly, cover the cake loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Let the coffee cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish, if desired.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy with a fresh cup of coffee or tea!
- Following these steps will give you a coffee cake with a perfect crumb, a buttery cinnamon streusel topping, and an irresistible flavor. Enjoy the process—baking this delicious cake is as fun as eating it!
Notes
- Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 325
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 210mg
- Potassium: 150mg
- Calcium: 50mg
- Iron: 1mg