Sour Cream Coffee Cake is a timeless classic, a comforting and moist cake that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. Its subtle tang of sour cream, aromatic cinnamon swirl, and delightful crumbly streusel topping make it a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave a sweet, cozy snack.
Who This Recipe Is For
This recipe is for anyone who appreciates the simple joy of coffee cake. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just looking for a delightful treat, this Sour Cream Coffee Cake is a crowd-pleaser. It’s a versatile dessert that can elevate any occasion.
The Appeal of Sour Cream Coffee Cake
The charm of this coffee cake lies in its harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The sour cream contributes to a moist and tender crumb, the cinnamon swirl introduces warmth and spice, and the crumbly streusel topping provides a satisfying crunch. The balance of these elements is what makes this cake so beloved.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you embark on your Sour Cream Coffee Cake journey, ensure you have these ingredients at hand:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
For the Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Making Your Sour Cream Coffee Cake: Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch square baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the pure vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 2: Create the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl
- In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping
- In another bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon until crumbly. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar swirl mixture over the batter.
- Add the remaining cake batter on top and smooth it out.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the cake.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Allow the Sour Cream Coffee Cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Slice and serve while still warm or at room temperature.
Recipe Tips and Variations
Nutty Crunch
For added texture and flavor, you can sprinkle chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans on top of the streusel before baking. The nuts will toast as the cake bakes, adding a delightful nutty crunch to each bite.
Fruitful Twist
Feel free to incorporate diced apples, berries, or even sliced bananas into the cake batter for a fruity variation. The fruit will infuse the cake with their natural sweetness and juicy goodness.
Sweet Finish
For a sweet finishing touch, drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cake. It adds an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal.
How to Store Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover Sour Cream Coffee Cake, store it in an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap. It can be kept at room temperature for a day or two, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven to enjoy that freshly baked taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use low-fat sour cream in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use low-fat sour cream, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the cake. It will still be delicious but with a slightly lighter touch.
Q: Can I make this coffee cake in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can make this coffee cake ahead of time and store it for a day or two, making it a perfect choice for preparing breakfast or brunch in advance.
Q: Can I use brown sugar in the cinnamon-sugar swirl or streusel?
A: Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for a slight flavor variation. Brown sugar will bring a subtle caramel-like richness to the cake, making it even more delightful.
In Conclusion
Sour Cream Coffee Cake is a delightful and comforting treat that suits any occasion. Its tender crumb, cinnamon swirl, and crumbly streusel topping create a harmonious combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon tea, this classic coffee cake is sure to please. So, preheat your oven, follow these steps, and savor the warm, spiced goodness of this timeless treat. Enjoy!