Classic Coffee Cake Recipe – Moist, Cinnamon Streusel & Perfect

A Coffee Cake Recipe is the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. Unlike its name suggests, coffee cake doesn’t necessarily contain coffee; instead, it’s meant to be enjoyed alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. This classic coffee cake features a moist, buttery cake base topped with a delicious cinnamon streusel crumble and a light vanilla glaze. The combination of rich flavors, warm spices, and a tender crumb makes it an irresistible homemade delight.

Nutrition & Instructions

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 40 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Breakfast, Dessert
• Servings: 10
• Calories per Serving: ~320 kcal

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Small bowl (for glaze)
• Electric mixer (optional)
• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Spatula
• Wire rack (for cooling)

Ingredients

For the Cake:

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

For the Streusel Topping:

• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Glaze (Optional):

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the mixture forms crumbs. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or mix by hand.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 6: Incorporate Sour Cream and Dry Ingredients

Add half of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, then mix in the sour cream. Add the remaining dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top and spread it out gently. Sprinkle the remaining streusel evenly over the top.

Step 8: Bake the Coffee Cake

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

While the cake is cooling, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 10: Drizzle and Serve

Drizzle the glaze over the cooled coffee cake. Slice and enjoy!

Tips for Best Results

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This ensures a smooth batter and even baking.
• Don’t Overmix – Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a tender crumb.
• Let It Cool – Allowing the cake to cool slightly before slicing helps maintain its texture.
• Try Variations – Add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or swap the glaze for a dusting of powdered sugar.

Pairing Suggestions

This coffee cake pairs beautifully with:

• Freshly brewed coffee or tea
• A side of fresh berries
• A dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a dessert option

Conclusion

This Coffee Cake Recipe is the ultimate comfort food with its moist texture, buttery streusel topping, and hint of cinnamon. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or save a slice for later, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try this simple yet flavorful recipe today and elevate your breakfast or brunch experience!