Coffee Cake Recipe: The Perfect Treat to Enjoy with Your Coffee

 Coffee Cake Recipe: The Perfect Treat to Enjoy with Your Coffee

If you’re looking for the perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee or afternoon tea, this coffee cake recipe will not disappoint. With a moist, soft cake and a rich, crunchy streusel topping, coffee cake is an absolute classic. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply enjoying a quiet moment at home, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress.

What is Coffee Cake?
Coffee cake is a delightful baked treat that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. Contrary to its name, it doesn’t always contain coffee as an ingredient. Instead, it’s typically a sweet, cinnamon-flavored cake topped with a crumbly streusel, and it’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day.

Ingredients You Will Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious coffee cake:

For the Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
1 tablespoon instant coffee granules (dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Streusel Topping:
½ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
¼ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small cubes)
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
How to Make Coffee Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9-inch cake pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.

2. Prepare the Streusel Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Add the cold butter cubes and use a fork to mix until the topping looks like coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped nuts if you’re using them. Set aside.

3. Create the Cake Batter
In a medium-sized bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. In a separate larger bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add Wet Ingredients to the Batter
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure they are fully combined. Then, add the dissolved coffee and vanilla extract for that extra depth of flavor.

5. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream or yogurt. Make sure you stir just until everything is combined — overmixing can result in a dense cake.

6. Assemble the Cake
Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly.Scatter half of the streusel topping evenly over the batter.Gently spoon the remaining batter over the streusel layer, ensuring it's evenly spread. Finally, sprinkle the remaining streusel mixture over the top.


7. Bake the Coffee Cake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes.. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, your coffee cake is ready.Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool fully.
Tips for Making the Best Coffee Cake
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough, dense cake. Mix only until the ingredients are combined for a soft and tender texture.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps everything blend smoothly, resulting in a better texture.

Add Some Crunch: If you enjoy a bit of texture, you can include nuts like walnuts or pecans in the streusel topping. It adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.

Storage: This coffee cake can be stored at room temperature for up to three days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze it for up to two months and thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why Coffee Cake is the Ultimate Treat
Coffee cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed anytime. Its balance of moist cake and crunchy topping makes it a hit for breakfast, brunch, or even as a dessert. The hint of coffee in this recipe adds depth without overpowering the sweetness, making it perfect for pairing with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea.

Customizing Your Coffee Cake
The beauty of coffee cake is that it’s easily customizable. Want a fruity twist? Add blueberries or chopped apples to the batter. If you’re a chocolate lover, toss in some chocolate chips for a richer flavor. The options are endless, so feel free to experiment and make this cake your own.

Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like a freshly baked coffee cake to elevate your coffee break. With its moist crumb, crunchy streusel, and subtle hint of coffee, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving guests or simply treating yourself, this coffee cake is easy to make and even easier to enjoy.