There is something incredibly comforting about waking up to the warm, spicy aroma of a Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe baking in the oven. This timeless coffee cake perfectly balances a moist, tender crumb with a crunchy, buttery cinnamon streusel topping that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for a weekend brunch or an afternoon pick-me-up, this cake feels like a special homemade hug wrapped in every bite, guaranteed to bring smiles and requests for seconds at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making this coffee cake pure magic. Each item plays an essential role, from the flour creating structure to the cinnamon streusel adding that signature sweet spice and texture. These ingredients are straightforward yet come together to deliver a rich, flavorful cake that’s worth every step.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base for a tender and sturdy cake texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a delicate crumb.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and keeps the cake moist.
- 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature: Keeps the cake wonderfully moist and slightly tangy.
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature: Bind the ingredients and add tenderness to the crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm aroma.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Provides lift for a light, fluffy cake.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with sour cream to help the cake rise perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and highlights other flavors.
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed: Vital for the streusel’s deep caramel notes.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: For the streusel, giving it that crumbly texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the streusel ingredients and adds buttery richness.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice of the streusel, warming every bite.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the optional glaze, adding a sweet finishing touch.
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream: Helps to thin the glaze to a perfect drizzle consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and aroma to the glaze.
How to Make Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This simple prep ensures your cake releases easily and bakes evenly, setting the foundation for all that lovely texture to come.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients creates the cake’s structure and helps it rise beautifully. Setting this aside will keep your workflow smooth and efficient.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a medium bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step traps air, giving your cake that light texture that melts in your mouth.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, taking your time to fully incorporate them before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract, infusing the batter with its rich, warm flavor. This careful mixing creates a smooth, cohesive base for your coffee cake.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. This method keeps the batter tender while maintaining that perfect balance of moistness and rise. Mix only until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Streusel
Combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon, then stir in melted butter and the chopped nuts if you’re using them. Mix until the streusel forms crumbly clusters. This mix will bake into a crunchy, sweet topping that defines the coffee cake’s signature texture and flavor.
Step 7: Layer Batter and Streusel
Spread half of the cake batter evenly into prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon streusel over the top. Repeat with the remaining batter and streusel, giving you a lovely layered effect that promises cinnamon pockets in every slice.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Bake your coffee cake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This baking time perfectly sets the cake while keeping it tender inside and crisp outside thanks to that irresistible streusel topping.
Step 9: Cool and Optional Glaze
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. For an extra-special touch, mix powdered sugar with milk or cream and a little vanilla extract, then drizzle the glaze over the cake. This adds sweetness and visual appeal without overpowering the cinnamon flavors.
How to Serve Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this coffee cake beautifully. Consider a light dusting of powdered sugar, a few extra chopped nuts, or even a fresh cinnamon stick on the side to hint at what’s inside. These small touches make your presentation feel as warm as the cake itself.
Side Dishes
Serve the coffee cake alongside a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or a creamy latte for the ultimate cozy experience. It also pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like berries or slices of crisp apples, which add a fresh contrast to the sweetness and spice.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to dress it up? Cut the cake into neat squares and serve on a rustic wooden board with a few bowls of whipped cream, honey, or nut butter for guests to customize their slices. You might even try layering slices with cream cheese frosting for a decadent twist on this Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Carefully cover the cake with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container to preserve its moisture and freshness. Stored at room temperature, it will be good for up to three days, making it perfect for enjoying over a few mornings or afternoons.
Freezing
You can freeze this coffee cake after baking for up to two months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Defrost overnight in the fridge before serving to retain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven for about 10 minutes. This warms the cake just enough to revive its soft crumb and melt that dreamy cinnamon butter topping once again.
FAQs
Can I make this coffee cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend of equal measure, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for structure. The texture will still be moist and delicious, with the same irresistible cinnamon streusel topping.
Is there a dairy-free version of this Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe?
Yes! Use dairy-free margarine or coconut oil in place of butter and swap the sour cream with a plant-based yogurt or sour cream alternative. These swaps won’t sacrifice the cake’s moistness or flavor.
Can I add fruit to this coffee cake?
Definitely! Fresh or dried fruit like blueberries, chopped apples, or raisins make wonderful additions stirred into the batter. They bring extra bursts of flavor that complement the cinnamon streusel perfectly.
What’s the best way to ensure a crumbly streusel topping?
Use cold butter for the streusel if possible, and work it in with your fingers or a pastry cutter until you get coarse crumbs. Avoid overmixing to keep the topping light and crumbly once baked.
Can I bake this recipe in muffins or smaller pans?
Yes, this batter adapts well to muffins or smaller cake pans. Adjust baking time accordingly, usually around 20-25 minutes for muffins, checking regularly with a toothpick for doneness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that radiates warmth, nostalgia, and the perfect amount of cinnamon-spiced sweetness, the Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe is your new best friend. It’s so simple to make, yet feels elegantly comforting with every scrumptious bite. I genuinely hope you try it soon and make it a regular feature in your kitchen – it’s the kind of recipe that fills your home with love, one slice at a time.
Print
Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast; Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake is a moist and tender cake layered with a sweet and crunchy cinnamon streusel topping, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. This easy-to-make recipe combines creamy sour cream batter with a flavorful cinnamon-nut streusel, baked to golden perfection and finished with an optional vanilla glaze.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Streusel Topping
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Vanilla Glaze (Optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat the eggs into the creamed butter mixture one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Batter: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Prepare Streusel Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter and chopped nuts if using, mixing until you form a crumbly texture.
- Assemble Cake: Spread half of the cake batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping evenly over the batter. Repeat with the remaining batter and streusel, layering carefully.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool and Glaze: Remove the cake from the oven and cool it in the pan on a wire rack. If desired, whisk together powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract to create a glaze and drizzle it over the cooled cake before serving.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit the nuts in the streusel topping.
- Room temperature ingredients help the batter blend together smoothly and create a tender crumb.
- If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, increase the cinnamon in the streusel slightly.
- The glaze is optional but adds a lovely sweetness and finish to the cake.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
