There’s something magical about a slice of coffee cake fresh out of the oven. The warm, cinnamon-scented aroma fills the air, making it nearly impossible to wait until it cools. This classic coffee cake is the kind of treat that feels like a warm hug—perfect for lazy mornings, afternoon pick-me-ups, or those moments when you just need something sweet with your coffee. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer! It’s light yet rich, with a buttery crumb and that irresistible cinnamon-sugar topping. Whether you’re making it for brunch, a family gathering, or simply because you deserve a treat, this coffee cake will hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love Classic Coffee Cake

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family breakfast, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, this coffee cake fits any occasion. You can even dress it up with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze for extra flair.

Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples like flour, sugar, and butter, this recipe won’t break the bank. You probably already have everything you need on hand!

Quick and Easy: No fancy techniques required! Just mix, layer, and bake—ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers.

Customizable: Add nuts, swap the cinnamon for nutmeg, or mix in some chocolate chips to make it your own. The options are endless!

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Classic Coffee Cake

Here’s the magic of this cake—it’s made with simple ingredients, yet the result is irresistibly delicious. Let’s break it down:

Flour: The foundation of the cake, providing structure and softness.

Sugar: A mix of white and brown sugar gives the perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of caramel-like richness.

Butter: Adds richness and a tender crumb. Use unsalted butter for better control over the flavor.

Eggs: Help bind the ingredients together while adding moisture and fluffiness.

Sour Cream: The secret ingredient that keeps the cake ultra-moist and slightly tangy, balancing out the sweetness beautifully.

Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Essential for that perfect rise and light texture.

Cinnamon: The star of the show in the crumb topping, giving the cake its signature warm spice.

Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor and gives a comforting aroma.

Milk: Helps create a smooth batter for a soft and fluffy texture.

Brown Sugar & Cinnamon (for the topping): The crunchy, sweet-spiced topping takes this cake to another level.

Instructions

Preheat Your Equipment

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures even baking and a perfectly golden crust. Lightly grease a baking pan to prevent sticking.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream for a smooth batter.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This step makes sure your cake doesn’t stick and slides out effortlessly once baked.

Assemble the Dish

Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar topping over the batter, then pour the remaining batter on top. Finish with the rest of the topping for that classic crumbly texture.

Cook to Perfection

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp.

Finishing Touches

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the flavors to settle and makes slicing easier.

Serve and Enjoy

Cut into squares and serve warm. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate cozy treat!

Nutrition facts

Servings: 12 slices

Calories per serving: 290

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

How to Serve Classic Coffee Cake

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Enjoy with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for the perfect morning treat.
Add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of icing for extra sweetness.
Serve with fresh berries or fruit salad to add a refreshing contrast.
Warm up leftovers and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Don’t overmix the batter—this keeps the cake light and fluffy.
Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and even baking.
Store leftovers properly in an airtight container to keep the cake fresh for up to 3 days.
Freeze for later by wrapping slices in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer bag.
Add nuts for crunch—chopped pecans or walnuts make a great addition to the topping.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream? Yes! Greek yogurt works as a great substitute and keeps the cake moist.

Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! This cake stays fresh for days and tastes even better the next day.

Can I add a glaze on top? Yes, a simple vanilla or cream cheese glaze makes it even more indulgent.

How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Can I freeze coffee cake? Yes! Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Why is my cake dry? Overbaking or using too much flour can cause dryness. Be sure to measure ingredients accurately and check for doneness early.

Can I use a different pan? Yes, a 9×9-inch square pan or even a muffin tin works well for individual servings.

Do I need to sift the flour? It’s not required, but sifting helps create a lighter texture.

Can I make this gluten-free? Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the best results.

Can I double the recipe? Yes, just use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

There you have it—your new go-to coffee cake recipe! Whether you’re making it for a cozy breakfast, a special gathering, or just because you’re craving something sweet, this cake is guaranteed to impress. It’s simple, delicious, and brings a little extra joy to any day. Now, go grab your ingredients and start baking!

Classic Coffee Cake

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Author: ikram
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: : 35–40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Breakfast/Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Classic Coffee Cake is a beloved treat, perfect for breakfast or brunch, featuring a moist, tender crumb and a delightful cinnamon streusel topping.

Instructions

Prepare the Streusel Topping:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Set aside.
Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Assemble the Cake:
- Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter.
- Spread the remaining batter over the streusel layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining streusel topping evenly over the top.
Bake:
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For added flavor, you can mix in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the streusel topping.
This cake can be made a day in advance and stored at room temperature, covered tightly.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 430 kcal
Sugar: 38g
Sodium: 122mg
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 90mg