Introduction
Coffee Cake, with its tender crumb and cinnamon streusel topping, has long been a cherished breakfast treat. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning alone or sharing it with loved ones over a steaming cup of coffee, this delightful cake is sure to brighten your day.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
- Morning People: If you’re someone who loves indulging in a cozy breakfast to kickstart your day, this cake is tailor-made for you.
- Coffee Lovers: The subtle hint of cinnamon in this cake complements your favorite cup of coffee beautifully.
- Baking Enthusiasts: Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is simple, approachable, and incredibly rewarding.
What Makes Coffee Cake So Special?
- Buttery Crumb: The tender, buttery texture of this cake practically melts in your mouth.
- Cinnamon Streusel: A sweet and cinnamon-infused streusel topping adds a delightful layer of flavor and texture.
- Versatile Snack: Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat any time of day.
- Homemade Comfort: Baking this Coffee Cake fills your kitchen with a warm, comforting aroma.
Ingredients
To whip up this delectable Coffee Cake, you’ll need:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Directions
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Coffee Cake:
- Prepare the Streusel Topping: Combine sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a bowl. Add cold, cubed butter and blend until crumbly.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking pan.
- Make the Cake Batter: Cream butter and sugar, add eggs and vanilla, then alternate adding dry ingredients and milk.
- Assemble the Cake: Layer half of the batter, sprinkle with half the streusel, repeat with remaining batter and streusel.
- Bake the Coffee Cake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the cake cool slightly before slicing and serving with your favorite coffee.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To prepare this Coffee Cake, ensure you have:
- 9×9-inch Baking Pan
- Mixing Bowls
- Pastry Cutter or Fork
- Electric Mixer (optional)
- Parchment Paper (optional)
How to Store Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. For longer storage, refrigerate and warm slightly before serving.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
Get creative with these variations:
- Fruit-Filled: Add sliced apples or berries between the cake and streusel layers.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the streusel for extra crunch.
- Glaze Drizzle: Drizzle the baked cake with a sweet glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
- Chocolate Twist: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the streusel for a decadent touch.
FAQ
- Can I use margarine instead of butter?: Yes, margarine can be a substitute for butter.
- Can I make this cake in advance?: Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and warm before serving.
- Can I use other spices in the streusel topping?: Certainly! Experiment with nutmeg or cardamom for unique flavors.
- Can I use buttermilk instead of whole milk?: Yes, buttermilk can be used for tanginess, but whole milk works just as well.
Conclusion
Coffee Cake is the ultimate morning indulgence, perfect for enhancing your daily coffee ritual. Its buttery crumb and cinnamon streusel topping provide comfort and warmth with every bite. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, Coffee Cake is sure to delight your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients, bake up a batch of this scrumptious cake, and treat yourself to a slice of homemade goodness. Don’t forget to share this delightful recipe with your loved ones and subscribe to my blog for more culinary inspiration. Enjoy!