Classic Coffee Cake Recipe

Coffee Cake is a timeless treat that perfectly balances soft, moist layers with a sweet, crumbly topping. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy breakfast companion, a delightful addition to brunch, or a simple yet satisfying dessert, this cake is sure to please. Its popularity stems from its versatility—pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea, and it’s the perfect way to start or end the day.

The origins of Coffee Cake are as warm and inviting as the cake itself, tracing back to European traditions where sweet cakes were often served with coffee to enhance the experience. This particular recipe draws inspiration from classic family gatherings where a comforting slice of homemade coffee cake brought everyone together. The combination of a buttery, tender crumb and a rich cinnamon topping makes it irresistible and timeless, making it a beloved choice across generations.

Coffee Cake Recipe

Ingredients for Coffee Cake Recipe

For the Cake Base:

1. All-Purpose Flour (2 cups)
   • The foundation of the cake that provides structure and stability. Ensure it’s measured accurately for the perfect texture.
2. Granulated Sugar (1 cup)
   • Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
3. Baking Powder (2 teaspoons)
   • Helps the cake rise, making it light and fluffy.
4. Baking Soda (½ teaspoon)
   • Works with the acidic ingredients to enhance the rise and create a soft texture.
5. Salt (½ teaspoon)
   • Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
6. Eggs (2 large)
   • Binds the ingredients together and adds richness to the cake.
7. Milk or Buttermilk (1 cup)
   • Keeps the cake moist and tender. Buttermilk adds a slight tang for extra flavor.
8. Unsalted Butter (½ cup, melted)
   • Adds richness and moisture to the cake. If using salted butter, reduce the added salt.
9. Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons)
   • Infuses the cake with a warm, aromatic flavor.

For the Crumb Topping:

1. Brown Sugar (¾ cup, packed)
   • Provides a deep, molasses-like sweetness to the topping.
2. Ground Cinnamon (1 tablespoon)
   • Adds warmth and enhances the classic flavor of the crumb topping.
3. All-Purpose Flour (1 cup)
   • Creates the crumble texture when combined with butter.
4. Cold Butter (½ cup, cubed)
   • When cut into the dry ingredients, it forms a deliciously crumbly topping.

Optional Additions (for Customization):

1. Chopped Nuts (½ cup, optional)
   • Pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
2. Chocolate Chips (½ cup, optional)
   • A fun addition for chocolate lovers.
3. Fresh Fruit (e.g., 1 cup of blueberries or diced apples)
   • Adds bursts of flavor and juiciness to the cake.

These carefully chosen ingredients come together to create a coffee cake that is irresistibly soft, flavorful, and topped with the perfect crumbly texture.

Instructions for Making Coffee Cake

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly and develops a beautiful golden crust.
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. Alternatively, line it with parchment paper to make removing the cake easier after baking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine:
  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup of granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons of baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon of baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon of salt
• Whisk these ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed.

3. Whisk the Wet Ingredients

• In another bowl, whisk together:
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup of milk or buttermilk
  • ½ cup of melted unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
• Make sure the melted butter is slightly cooled to avoid cooking the eggs.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients.
• Gently mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the cake dense. The batter should be smooth but slightly thick.

5. Prepare the Crumb Topping

• In a medium bowl, combine:
  • ¾ cup of packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• Add ½ cup of cold cubed butter to the mixture.
• Use a fork or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture becomes crumbly, with small butter pieces evenly distributed.

6. Assemble the Cake

• Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
• Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the batter, covering the surface completely.

7. Bake the Cake

• Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes.
• To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.
• Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

8. Cool and Serve

• Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely or serve it slightly warm for a more comforting experience.
• Slice into squares or rectangles and enjoy with coffee, tea, or your favorite beverage.

9. Optional Serving Suggestions

• Dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
• Pair with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

With these detailed instructions, you’ll create a moist, tender coffee cake with a delicious crumb topping that’s sure to impress!

Tips for Making the Perfect Coffee Cake

General Tips

1. Measure Ingredients Accurately
   • Use measuring cups and spoons for dry and wet ingredients to ensure the right consistency. Spoon and level flour into your measuring cup to avoid packing it in, which can make the cake dense.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter
   • Stir the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can result in a tough, dense cake.
3. Keep the Butter Cold for the Crumb Topping
   • Cold butter is essential for creating a crumbly topping. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or even your hands to blend the butter with the dry topping ingredients.
4. Ensure Your Oven is Preheated
   • Always preheat your oven before baking. An unheated oven can cause the cake to rise unevenly.
5. Test for Doneness
   • Use a toothpick or skewer to test the cake. Insert it into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.

Flavor Enhancements

1. Add a Streusel Layer
   • For extra flavor, sprinkle half the crumb topping in the middle of the batter before adding the rest on top. This creates a delicious streusel layer.
2. Customize the Toppings
   • Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the crumb topping for extra crunch.
   • Sprinkle chocolate chips or a drizzle of caramel over the crumb topping for added sweetness.
3. Incorporate Fruit
   • Fold fresh or dried fruit like blueberries, raspberries, or diced apples into the batter for a fruity twist.

Texture Tips

1. Use Buttermilk
   • If you have buttermilk, it adds a slight tang and makes the cake even more tender. You can also make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice into 1 cup of milk.
2. Keep the Cake Moist
   • Avoid overbaking to ensure the cake stays moist. Begin checking for doneness 5 minutes before the suggested baking time.
3. Add a Powdered Sugar Glaze
   • Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla over the cooled cake for added sweetness and decoration.

Storage and Reheating Tips

1. Store Properly
   • Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it.
2. Reheat Before Serving
   • Warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore the cake’s soft texture and enhance the flavors.

Make-Ahead Tips

1. Prepare in Advance
   • Make the crumb topping ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the cake when ready.
2. Freeze for Later
   • Wrap the fully cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven before serving.

These tips will help you create a coffee cake that’s not only delicious but perfectly tailored to your tastes and needs!

Conclusion

Coffee Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a comforting companion to your morning coffee, a delightful treat for brunch gatherings, and a nostalgic reminder of cozy family moments. This recipe captures the essence of a classic coffee cake, with its soft, moist texture and buttery crumb topping that melts in your mouth. Each slice is a testament to the simplicity and warmth of home baking, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

The versatility of this recipe allows you to make it uniquely yours. Whether you choose to add nuts, fresh fruits, or a drizzle of glaze, the result is a deliciously personalized treat that will impress your loved ones. Its straightforward preparation makes it an ideal choice for both seasoned bakers and beginners, ensuring success every time. Coffee Cake is a celebration of tradition and creativity, making it a timeless favorite for all occasions.