Coffee Cake

Coffee cake is a delightful treat that perfectly combines a moist, buttery texture with a sweet streusel topping. Ideal for breakfast or dessert, this coffee cake is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or casual get-together. Its rich flavors and comforting aroma make it an excellent choice for sharing with friends and family, or simply enjoying with your favorite cup of coffee.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and brown sugar creates a warm, inviting flavor profile that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a dessert after dinner.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This coffee cake serves 12, making it ideal for brunches, potlucks, or family get-togethers.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or fruit into the batter for a personal twist!

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this delicious coffee cake is easier when you have the right tools on hand. Here are some essential items you’ll need before you start baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Having various sizes helps in organizing your ingredients effectively.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best results in baking.
• Baking dish: A proper-sized dish ensures even cooking and optimal texture.

 

Ingredients

To create this flavorful coffee cake, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cake Base

• 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 softened butter
• 1 Tablespoon cinnamon
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup firmly packed light brown sugar
• ½ tablespoon cinnamon
• ¼ cup butter cubed
• ⅛ teaspoon salt

For the Drizzle

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2½ teaspoons milk

How to Make Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. You can optionally line your baking dish with parchment paper. Grease a 9 by 9-inch baking dish with 2-inch sides.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all the dry ingredients:
1. Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Combine the melted butter, egg, and buttermilk until well mixed.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients:
1. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Layer Your Batter

Pour half of the cake batter into your prepared dish:
1. Spread it evenly across the bottom before adding any toppings or additional layers.

Enjoy making this delightful coffee cake that will surely impress!

How to Serve Coffee Cake

Serving coffee cake is a delightful experience, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat throughout the day. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will enhance your coffee cake enjoyment.

Pair with Coffee

• A classic pairing! Brew a fresh pot of your favorite coffee to complement the rich flavors of the cake.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Top each slice with seasonal fruits like berries, bananas, or peaches for a refreshing contrast.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture and balances the sweetness of the coffee cake.

Ice Cream Delight

• For an indulgent treat, serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream on top.

Drizzle with Glaze

• A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can enhance the visual appeal and sweetness of each slice.

Create Mini Cakes

• Bake individual portions in muffin tins for easy serving at gatherings or events.

How to Perfect Coffee Cake

Perfecting your coffee cake recipe can elevate it from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, egg, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Properly: Spoon and level the flour instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid a dense cake.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your coffee cake light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to toughness.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
• Add Extra Cinnamon: If you love cinnamon, feel free to increase the amount in both the batter and topping for more flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake

Enhance your coffee cake experience by pairing it with these side dishes. Each option adds an extra layer of flavor and complements the cake perfectly.

1. Greek Yogurt
   A dollop of Greek yogurt provides creaminess and tang that balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of fresh fruits brings brightness and freshness alongside each slice of coffee cake.
3. Chia Seed Pudding
   This nutritious pudding offers a unique texture that pairs well with coffee cake’s crumbly nature.
4. Nut Butter Toast
   Spread almond or peanut butter on whole-grain toast for a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with soft cake.
5. Granola Parfait
   Layer granola, yogurt, and fruits for a wholesome breakfast option alongside your coffee cake.
6. Savory Cheese Platter
   Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese to create a balanced savory-sweet experience.
7. Oven-Roasted Nuts
   A bowl of seasoned roasted nuts adds crunch and depth, making for an excellent snack alongside coffee cake.
8. Herbal Tea Selection
   Offer a variety of herbal teas as a soothing beverage choice that pairs wonderfully with sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making coffee cake, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Bold Measurement Errors: Failing to measure ingredients accurately can affect the texture and taste. Use standard measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Bold Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Bold Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold eggs or buttermilk can hinder batter mixing. Allow your ingredients to reach room temperature before using them.
• Bold Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in uneven baking. Always preheat your oven before placing the cake inside.
• Bold Not Testing for Doneness: Cutting into the cake too soon can ruin it. Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store coffee cake in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• If wrapped tightly, it can stay fresh longer, even in the fridge.

Freezing Coffee Cake

• Wrap slices in plastic wrap and then foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Coffee Cake

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Bold Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Bold Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, allowing it to crisp slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about coffee cake, here are some common questions answered.

What is Coffee Cake?

Coffee cake is a sweet, moist cake often enjoyed with coffee or tea, featuring a crumbly topping and sometimes filled with fruit or nuts.

Can I Make Coffee Cake Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare coffee cake ahead of time. Just store it properly as outlined in the storage section above.

How Can I Customize My Coffee Cake Recipe?

You can add fruits like blueberries or apples, nuts such as walnuts or pecans, or even chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

Is Coffee Cake Suitable for Breakfast?

Absolutely! Coffee cake makes an excellent breakfast option due to its delightful sweetness and satisfying texture.

Final Thoughts

This coffee cake recipe is perfect for any occasion with its rich flavors and delightful crumb topping. It’s versatile enough that you can easily customize it with your favorite fruits or spices. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its deliciousness!