Classic Coffee Cake Recipe: Moist, Fluffy, and Irresistible

Craving a delicious treat that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee? Many recipes can be too complicated or time-consuming. You need a simple, yet delightful coffee cake recipe.

Imagine waking up to the aroma of a freshly baked coffee cake. The frustration of complicated recipes can ruin this experience. You deserve an easy-to-follow recipe that delivers every time.

Introducing the ultimate coffee cake recipe! This recipe is straightforward and guarantees a moist, flavorful cake with a perfect cinnamon streusel topping. Enjoy a slice with your favorite coffee and start your day right.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients for our coffee cake. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cinnamon Filling

• 2/3 cup (147 grams) light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (30 grams) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon of your favorite spice (except nutmeg)

For the Streusel Topping

• 3/4 cup (90 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (110 grams) light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons cold butter

For the Coffee Cake Batter

• 1 1/2 cups (210 grams) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 10 tablespoons (142 grams) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (55 grams) light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2/3 cup sour cream, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Optional Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk

Making the Cinnamon Filling

Let’s start by preparing the cinnamon filling. This filling adds a wonderful ribbon of cinnamon sweetness to the middle of your coffee cake. In a small bowl, mix together:

1. Light brown sugar (2/3 cup or 147 grams)
2. All-purpose flour (1/4 cup or 30 grams)
3. Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons)

If you like, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of any spice you prefer, but avoid nutmeg as it can be overpowering. Combine these ingredients and set them aside.

Preparing the Streusel Topping

The streusel topping adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to the top of your coffee cake. Here’s how to make it:

1. In a medium bowl, combine:
   • All-purpose flour (3/4 cup or 90 grams)
   • Light brown sugar (1/2 cup or 110 grams)
   • Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons)
   • Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
2. Mix these ingredients with a fork until well combined. The salt enhances the flavors and prevents the sweetness from becoming flat.
3. Cut in cold butter (6 tablespoons) into small pieces and mix with your fingers until the mixture resembles wet sand. This will create a crumbly texture that’s perfect for topping your cake.

Making the Coffee Cake Batter

Now that we have our filling and topping ready, let’s move on to the batter:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
   • All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups or 210 grams)
   • Salt (3/4 teaspoon)
   • Baking powder (2 teaspoons)
3. In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together:
   • Unsalted butter (10 tablespoons or 142 grams) until creamy.
   • Add granulated sugar (3/4 cup or 150 grams) and light brown sugar (1/4 cup or 55 grams), mixing until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs (2 large) one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
5. Mix in sour cream (2/3 cup) and vanilla extract (2 teaspoons) until smooth.
6. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix to avoid a dense cake.

Assembling the Coffee Cake

With your cinnamon filling, streusel topping, and batter ready, it’s time to assemble:

1. Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan.
2. Sprinkle the cinnamon filling evenly over the batter.
3. Dollop the remaining batter over the filling and carefully spread it out to cover.
4. Top with the streusel topping, being cautious not to overload the center to avoid sinking.

Baking and Finishing Touches

1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 55 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary, so keep an eye on your cake.
2. While the cake is cooling, prepare the optional glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together:
   • Powdered sugar (1 cup)
   • Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon)
   • Milk (1-2 tablespoons) until smooth.
3. Once the cake is cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top if desired.

Enjoy Your Coffee Cake!

This classic coffee cake is a treat you’ll want to make again and again. With its tender crumb, sweet cinnamon filling, and crunchy streusel topping, it’s perfect with a cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy every delicious bite!