Coffee Cake

Coffee cake is a delightful treat that perfectly combines moistness with a crumbly texture. This versatile cake is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, making it a great addition to any occasion. Its cinnamon flavor and sweet drizzle elevate it to a standout choice for gatherings or quiet moments at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this coffee cake comes together quickly.
• Rich Flavor – The buttery base combined with cinnamon creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy morning, this coffee cake fits right in.
• Customizable – You can add nuts or fruit to the batter if you want to mix things up.
• Great Leftovers – Enjoy it fresh or save some for later; it tastes amazing even the next day!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools and prepare your workspace for a smooth cooking experience. Having everything ready will make following the recipe easy and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking dish (9×9 inch)
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls – Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients effectively.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Ensure accurate measurements for perfect results every time.
• Baking dish – A sturdy 9×9 inch dish provides even baking and helps achieve that perfect golden crust.

Ingredients

To create this delicious coffee cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon melted butter
• 1 egg (room temperature)
• 1½ cups buttermilk (room temperature)

For the Streusel Topping

• 3 Tablespoons soften butter
• 1 Tablespoon cinnamon
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup firmly packed light brown sugar

For the Drizzle

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2½ teaspoons milk

How to Make Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by heating your oven to 375 degrees F. Optionally, line your baking dish with parchment paper for easier removal later. Grease your 9×9-inch baking dish with butter.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:
1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 teaspoon baking powder
3. ½ teaspoon baking soda
4. ½ teaspoon salt

Mix well until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together:
1. 1 Tablespoon melted butter
2. 1 egg (room temperature)
3. 1½ cups buttermilk (room temperature)

Ensure everything is blended smoothly.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Layer the Batter

Pour half of the batter into the prepared dish, smoothing it out evenly across the bottom.

Now you’re ready to continue building your coffee cake!

How to Serve Coffee Cake

Serving coffee cake can elevate your breakfast or dessert experience. This moist treat pairs well with various accompaniments to enhance its flavors.

With Fresh Fruit

• Strawberries – Their natural sweetness complements the cinnamon flavors of the coffee cake.
• Blueberries – These juicy berries add a burst of freshness and a pop of color on the plate.

With Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream adds a delightful texture that balances the dense cake.

With Coffee or Tea

• Brewed Coffee – A classic pairing, the rich flavors of coffee enhance the taste of the cake.
• Herbal Tea – Opt for caffeine-free varieties like chamomile or mint for a refreshing contrast.

As a Breakfast Item

• Enjoy coffee cake as part of a balanced breakfast alongside yogurt and fruit for a satisfying start to your day.

How to Perfect Coffee Cake

Creating the perfect coffee cake requires attention to detail in both preparation and baking. Here are some tips to ensure your coffee cake turns out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This helps the batter mix more evenly, leading to a lighter texture.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Check Oven Temperature – Use an oven thermometer for accuracy, as incorrect temperatures can affect baking times.
• Cool Before Serving – Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before removing it; this helps maintain its shape.

Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake

Pairing side dishes with coffee cake adds variety to your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt – A creamy addition that adds protein and tanginess, balancing the sweetness of the cake.
2. Granola – Crunchy granola provides texture and pairs well with fresh fruit on the side.
3. Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and complements the flavors of coffee cake.
4. Scrambled Eggs – Savory eggs create a satisfying contrast, perfect for brunch gatherings.
5. Cottage Cheese – This high-protein option offers creaminess and pairs nicely with fruit toppings.
6. Nut Butter Toast – Whole grain toast spread with almond or peanut butter enhances flavor while adding healthy fats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making coffee cake is a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make simple mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Bold ingredient measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much flour can lead to a dry cake, while too little can make it dense.
• Bold neglecting room temperature: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps the batter mix more evenly, resulting in a lighter texture.
• Bold skipping the streusel topping: Don’t skip the crumb topping! It adds flavor and a lovely texture contrast. Make sure you prepare it thoroughly for the best results.
• Bold overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined when adding wet ingredients to dry. Overmixing can lead to a tough coffee cake instead of a tender one.
• Bold not preheating the oven: Preheat your oven before baking. This ensures that your cake rises properly and bakes evenly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Coffee Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Coffee Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds per slice, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making delicious coffee cake.

What is Coffee Cake?

Coffee cake is a moist dessert often enjoyed with coffee or tea. It typically features a crumbly topping and sweet filling.

Can I use different flavors in my Coffee Cake?

Absolutely! You can add fruit like blueberries or nuts such as walnuts for added texture and flavor variations.

How do I ensure my Coffee Cake stays moist?

Using room-temperature buttermilk helps retain moisture, along with not overbaking your cake.

Can I customize the toppings on my Coffee Cake?

Yes! Consider adding glazes, whipped cream, or even chocolate chips to suit your taste preferences.

Is this Coffee Cake suitable for breakfast?

Definitely! Coffee cake makes an excellent breakfast option or brunch treat due to its sweet yet comforting profile.

Final Thoughts

This coffee cake recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s breakfast or dessert. Its moist texture and delightful cinnamon flavor make it irresistible. Feel free to customize with fruits or nuts based on your preference!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Coffee Cake

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 9

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of homemade coffee cake, a moist and tender treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With its buttery base and a hint of cinnamon, this cake is not only easy to make but also customizable with your favorite nuts or fruits. The crumbly streusel topping adds a satisfying crunch, while a simple powdered sugar drizzle enhances its sweetness. Whether enjoyed on a cozy morning or served at gatherings, this coffee cake is sure to impress everyone around the table!

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon melted butter
• 1 egg (room temperature)
• 1½ cups buttermilk (room temperature)
• 3 Tablespoons softened butter (for streusel topping)
• 1 Tablespoon cinnamon (for streusel topping)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour (for streusel topping)
• ½ cup brown sugar (for streusel topping)
• ½ cup firmly packed light brown sugar (for streusel topping)
• ½ cup powdered sugar (for drizzle)
• 2½ teaspoons milk (for drizzle)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon melted butter, 1 room temperature egg, and 1½ cups room temperature buttermilk until smooth.
4. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients gently until just mixed.
5. Pour half of the batter into the prepared dish and spread evenly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 30mg