Coffee Cake

Coffee Cake Recipe

Introduction

Are you ready to delight your taste buds with a warm slice of Coffee Cake? This heavenly treat, with its rich flavors and tender crumb, creates an irresistible experience that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. Not only is Coffee Cake scrumptiously delicious, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or just looking for a comforting snack, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite.

Fun fact: Coffee Cake doesn’t actually contain coffee! Instead, it earned its name because it is the ideal companion to that morning cup of joe. With its beautiful blend of cinnamon and nutty flavors, this dish brings people together. So, grab your apron and join us on this culinary adventure! You’ll find that this recipe stands shoulder to shoulder with classics like Chocolate Chip Muffins, so be sure to check those out afterward!

What is Coffee Cake?

Now, let’s shine a light on this beloved baked good. Coffee Cake is not just any ordinary cake; it’s a delightful indulgence that marries soft cake layers with a rich, crumbly topping. But why is it called Coffee Cake, you ask? Well, legend has it that it’s made to enjoy alongside your steaming cup of coffee, making mornings that much sweeter. It’s true what they say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—and this cake is sure to win hearts left and right! So, why not start your day with a slice? Get your mixing bowl ready; you’re in for a treat!

Why You’ll Love This Coffee Cake

Imagine waking up to the warm, inviting scent of freshly baked Coffee Cake wafting through your home—pure bliss! What really sets this cake apart is its crumbly topping, packed with cinnamon and walnuts. Not only is it utterly delightful, but baking it at home also saves you money compared to store-bought alternatives. And who doesn’t love that? Imagine serving it up at brunch, leaving friends and family raving about the flavors.

Coffee Cake makes a wonderful alternative to other treats, like Banana Bread, with its unique textures and flavors. And the best part? You can customize it with your favorite toppings like fresh berries, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of icing. So, roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!

How to Make Coffee Cake

Quick Overview

Baking Coffee Cake is a breeze! This dish highlights the joy of simple ingredients coming together to create a deliciously satisfying outcome. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a bake time of around 40 minutes, you can have this delightful treat ready to serve in less than an hour. Perfect for unexpected guests or sunny Sunday mornings!

Key Ingredients for Coffee Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring they are well incorporated. Then, add in the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Stir in the sour cream until the batter is smooth.
6. Prepare Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg for the topping.
7. Layer the Batter: Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan. Evenly distribute the walnut topping over the batter, followed by the remaining batter on top.
8. Bake: Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan before serving.
9. Enjoy: Slice, serve, and enjoy your slice of heaven!

What to Serve Coffee Cake With

Pair your Coffee Cake with a steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea for a well-rounded breakfast or afternoon snack. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or oranges to balance out the sweetness. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate your dessert experience!

Top Tips for Perfecting Coffee Cake

• Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t have walnuts? Feel free to swap them out for pecans or even a mix of your favorite nuts.
• Mix-Ins: Add chocolate chips or dried fruits for an extra layer of flavor.
• Watch Your Bake Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. If it browns too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil.
• Cool Before Serving: Allow your cake to cool completely in the pan for easier slicing and to prevent it from crumbling.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Storing your Coffee Cake is simple! To keep your cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its life, consider freezing it. Just slice the cake and wrap individual pieces in freezer-safe plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Frozen Coffee Cake can be kept for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, let it thaw at room temperature or warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds.

With these tips and tricks, your homemade Coffee Cake will be the centerpiece of any gathering! So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and start baking today!