If you’re looking for a timeless, mouthwatering treat that brings warmth to any breakfast table or afternoon coffee break, Classic Coffee Cake is the answer. This beloved baked good combines a soft, tender crumb with swirls of cinnamon streusel for layers of comforting flavor and just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re hosting brunch with friends, bringing a dish to your office, or simply brightening an ordinary weekend, Classic Coffee Cake strikes the perfect note every single time.

Classic Coffee Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Classic Coffee Cake comes together with a handful of pantry essentials that work together to create pure magic. Every ingredient plays its part, from the rich buttery base to the crowd-pleasing cinnamon streusel, offering texture, moisture, and unforgettable flavor that guarantees rave reviews.

Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Brings richness to the cake and keeps the crumb nice and tender.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cake just enough without overpowering the cinnamon flavor.
Large eggs (2): Help bind everything together and add structure for a fluffy texture.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds extra warmth and depth, making each bite more inviting.
Sour cream (1 cup): Creates incredible moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness (Greek yogurt works too!)
All-purpose flour (2 cups): The essential backbone of the cake, giving it just the right chew.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the cake rise beautifully for that classic height.
Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Reacts with sour cream for extra lift and tenderness.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Rounds out flavors and prevents the sweetness from becoming too much.
Brown sugar (1/2 cup, for streusel): Gives the streusel a deep, caramelized sweetness and irresistible crumbly texture.
Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon, for streusel): The star flavor that adds cozy, classic familiarity to every bite.
Chopped pecans or walnuts (1/2 cup, optional, for streusel): Bring crunch and nutty flavor if you like a bit of extra texture.
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons, for streusel): Helps hold the streusel together so you get that iconic crumbly swirl.
Cold butter (2 tablespoons, for streusel): Cut into the topping for perfect, crunchy crumbles.

How to Make Classic Coffee Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s perfectly hot by the time your cake is ready to bake. Take a 9-inch square or round baking pan and grease it well with butter or nonstick spray to make sure the cake pops out effortlessly once cooled.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Combining these ingredients first helps them distribute evenly into the batter later, so you get a super consistent crumb in your Classic Coffee Cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a large mixing bowl and either a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This process creates tiny air pockets that make your cake tender and soft—totally worth a few extra minutes!

Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Sour Cream

Add the eggs to your creamed mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate. Stir in your vanilla extract and sour cream, blending until the batter is smooth and luscious. The sour cream is the secret to that moist, plush texture Classic Coffee Cake is known for.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low just until combined. Be gentle here; overmixing can make your cake dense. Stop once there are no pockets of flour left and the batter looks cohesive.

Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Streusel

In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar, cinnamon, chopped nuts (if using), and 2 tablespoons flour. Add in the cold, cubed butter and work it in with a fork or your fingers until the mixture forms crumbly, irresistible clusters. This streusel is what gives Classic Coffee Cake its signature layered look and taste.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Pour half the batter into your greased pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle half the cinnamon streusel mixture over the batter for that wonderful mid-cake swirl. Add the rest of the batter and smooth it out, then top with the remaining streusel for a beautiful, rustic finish.

Step 8: Bake and Cool

Slide your pan into the center of the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The cake is done when it’s golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay!). Let your Classic Coffee Cake cool in the pan before cutting into generous slices.

How to Serve Classic Coffee Cake

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving gives your Classic Coffee Cake a lovely bakery-style look. If you love a little extra sweetness, drizzle on a quick glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or cream. A few scattered chopped nuts or fresh berries can also make each plate pop!

Side Dishes

This cake is dreamy next to a mug of strong coffee (naturally!), but it also pairs fabulously with fresh fruit salad, creamy Greek yogurt, or even a little scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re indulging at dessert time. A handful of berries offers a refreshing contrast to the buttery richness of Classic Coffee Cake.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch spread, cut the cake into small, bite-sized squares and pile them on a tiered tray. Serve individual slices with a dollop of whipped cream and mint for an extra treat. If you’re serving kids or a crowd, turn Classic Coffee Cake into cupcakes by baking in muffin tins with streusel on top—adorable and perfectly portable!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Classic Coffee Cake covered at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, transfer slices to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator, which helps preserve the cake’s moisture and keep the streusel topping just right.

Freezing

If you want to stretch out the enjoyment even further, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic and then placed in a zip-top bag or sealed container. The Classic Coffee Cake will hold up well for up to two months—just thaw at room temperature or in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating

For that “just-baked” aroma and taste, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. If reheating larger portions, a few minutes in a 300°F oven will bring back the cake’s soft interior and perk up the cinnamon streusel on top.

FAQs

Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream in Classic Coffee Cake?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt (ideally full-fat) is a great substitute for sour cream and will give the cake the same lovely moisture and tender crumb.

Do I have to add nuts to the streusel?

Nope—feel free to leave them out if you prefer or if you have allergies. The streusel will still be deliciously crumbly and full of cinnamon flavor without them.

Why did my coffee cake come out dry?

This usually happens if the cake is overbaked. Check for doneness at 35 minutes and pull it as soon as a toothpick comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. Using sour cream or yogurt also helps keep the cake moist.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

You sure can! Just double everything and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time and checking doneness as you go.

Is there actually coffee in Classic Coffee Cake?

Surprisingly, no! Classic Coffee Cake gets its name from being the perfect treat to enjoy with a hot cup of coffee. The recipe itself is all about cinnamon, butter, and that dreamy streusel.

Final Thoughts

Classic Coffee Cake is comfort and nostalgia baked into every bite, and it truly couldn’t be easier or more rewarding to make at home. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try—whether for a special breakfast, a sweet snack, or simply to share a bit of homemade love with friends and family. Enjoy every crumb!