Welcome to the world of Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake! This simple and flavorful recipe promises to delight your taste buds. You’ll find soft, buttery layers, spiced with warm cinnamon, topped with a crunchy streusel. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon treat, this cake is easy to make and even easier to love. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into the ingredients and create something special!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Moist and Flavorful: This coffee cake is incredibly moist thanks to the buttermilk, making each bite rich and satisfying.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it's a casual brunch or a cozy evening with coffee, this cake fits perfectly.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip this up effortlessly.
- Streusel Topping Delight: The crunchy cinnamon streusel adds a delightful texture and flavor contrast to the soft cake.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
The main ingredients create a soft and moist cake. All-purpose flour gives it structure. Sugar makes it sweet, while butter adds richness. Buttermilk keeps it tender and moist. Eggs add lift and hold everything together. Vanilla gives a warm flavor. Baking powder and baking soda help it rise. Salt enhances the sweetness, and cinnamon adds a cozy spice.
Ingredients for Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans optional)
The streusel topping brings crunch and flavor. Brown sugar adds a caramel taste. Additional flour helps bind the streusel. Butter gives it a crumbly texture. Cinnamon adds warmth, and nuts bring a nice crunch. You can skip the nuts if you want a nut-free cake.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Mix until it is light and fluffy.
3. Add 2 large eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
1. In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon.
2. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Alternate with 1 cup of buttermilk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps the cake light.
Preparing the Streusel Topping
1. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar, 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of softened butter, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Use your fingers or a fork to blend until crumbly. If you want, mix in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts.
2. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly.
3. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top and finish with the rest of the streusel.
Baking Instructions
1. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean.
2. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfect Coffee Cake
To make a great coffee cake, start with the right batter. The batter should be thick but smooth. If it’s too runny, your cake will not hold its shape. If it’s too thick, it won’t rise well. Always measure your flour correctly. Use a spoon to fluff the flour, then scoop it into the measuring cup. Level it off with a knife.
Do not overmix your batter. Overmixing makes the cake dense and tough. Mix just until the dry ingredients blend into the wet ones. You want some lumps in your batter. This step is key for a light, fluffy cake.
Baking Tips
Check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer. Ovens can be off by quite a bit. If your oven runs hot, your cake may burn. If it runs cold, the cake may not bake well.
Use the right pan for even baking. A 9x13-inch pan works best for this recipe. If you use a dark pan, lower the temperature by 25°F. This tip helps prevent the bottom from burning while the top remains undercooked.
Presentation Suggestions
Slice the coffee cake into squares for serving. Use a sharp knife for clean edges. Serve warm on a nice platter. It looks great and tastes better warm.
Dust the top with powdered sugar. This adds a sweet touch and makes it pretty. For a fun twist, you can add fresh fruit on the side. Fresh berries pair well with coffee cake and add color to your plate.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation and a lighter texture in the cake.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to keep the cake tender. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
- Customize the Nuts: Feel free to experiment with different nuts in the streusel topping, like almonds or hazelnuts, for varied flavor and texture.
- Check for Doneness: Start checking the cake a few minutes before the recommended time by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the flavor of your coffee cake easily. One way is to add fruit. Sliced apples or berries work great. These fruits add moisture and sweetness. You can mix them into the batter or sprinkle them on top.
Another fun option is to drizzle chocolate ganache on top. The rich chocolate pairs well with the cinnamon. It adds a sweet finish to your cake. Just melt chocolate with cream, then pour it over the cooled cake.
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free flour. Many brands make good substitutes for all-purpose flour. You can also try almond flour for a nutty flavor. Just make sure to adjust the liquid in the recipe.
For vegan adaptations, swap eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. Use a plant-based butter and non-dairy milk instead of buttermilk.
Seasonal Variations
You can change the spices based on the season. In fall, add pumpkin spice to your batter for a warm flavor. It gives the cake a cozy feel.
In spring, lemon zest brightens up the cake. It adds a fresh, zesty flavor. Just grate the peel of a lemon and mix it in with the wet ingredients. This twist makes the coffee cake light and refreshing.
Storage Information
Storing Coffee Cake
To keep your coffee cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place a piece of wax paper between the cake and the lid to absorb moisture. This helps prevent sogginess. You can also wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap for extra protection. If you have leftovers, it should stay good for about three days at room temperature.
If the weather is warm, refrigerate your coffee cake. This keeps it fresh for up to a week. Be sure to seal it well in the fridge to avoid drying out.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the coffee cake cool completely. Then, slice it into portions. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. After that, place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag or container.
You can freeze the cake for up to three months. To thaw, move a slice to the fridge for several hours or overnight. For a quick fix, you can use the microwave for 15-20 seconds. If you want it warm, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Enjoy your cake at its best!
FAQs
Common Questions about Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk? Yes, you can use regular milk. Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and moisture. To mimic buttermilk, add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.
How long does the coffee cake stay fresh? Cinnamon streusel coffee cake stays fresh for about 3 days at room temperature. If you store it in the fridge, it can last up to a week.
What is the difference between streusel and crumble toppings? Streusel has a buttery, crumbly texture. It often includes sugar, flour, and spices. Crumble toppings are similar but may use oats and have a chunkier texture.
Baking Related Questions
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time? Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Just cover it well and store it at room temperature.
How do I prevent my coffee cake from sinking? To prevent sinking, do not overmix your batter. Mix until just combined and ensure your baking powder is fresh.
What can I serve with coffee cake? Coffee cake pairs well with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a cup of coffee. It's perfect for breakfast or a snack!
This post covered the key ingredients and steps to make a delicious cinnamon streusel coffee cake. It included tips for baking and serving, as well as tasty variations to try. Remember, the right consistency and not overmixing are crucial for a perfect cake. With these tips, you can create a treat loved by all. Enjoy your baking experience and don't hesitate to experiment with flavors! There's no limit to what you can create.
