The Best Coffee Cake Recipe You'll Ever Make in 20 min

Every weekend, my kitchen turns into a cozy haven. The scent of freshly baked coffee cake fills the air. This easy recipe has become a beloved tradition for my family, ready in just 20 minutes.

Picture biting into a slice of soft, buttery cake. The crumbly cinnamon streusel topping adds a delightful crunch. This recipe is more than just food—it’s a way to share joy and bring people together.

Understanding Coffee Cake: A Breakfast Classic

Coffee cake is a favorite breakfast item that adds warmth to mornings in America. It doesn’t have coffee, but it’s perfect with your morning coffee. This treat is a staple at breakfast tables everywhere.

Why It’s Called Coffee Cake Without Coffee

The name “coffee cake” comes from its pairing with coffee. It’s a tasty side dish enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee. This tradition started in Central Europe in the 17th century and spread to America.

The History Behind This Beloved Treat

Coffee cake has a rich history. German immigrants brought their recipes to the U.S. in the late 1800s. These recipes became a part of American breakfast culture, showing the country’s diverse food scene.

Originated in Central Europe in the 17th century
Introduced to the United States by German immigrants
Became a popular breakfast and brunch item

What Makes It Special

Coffee cake is special because of its texture. It has a velvety soft crumb and a crunchy streusel topping. This mix of soft cake and crispy topping makes it a favorite breakfast treat.

“A slice of coffee cake is like a warm hug for your taste buds” – Baking Enthusiast

Coffee cake is perfect for any time, whether it’s breakfast or an afternoon snack. It’s a timeless classic that brings happiness to any moment.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Coffee Cake Recipe

Creating a moist coffee cake begins with the right ingredients. Your coffee cake will be amazing with top-notch parts. These ensure great taste and texture.

Core Ingredients for a Delicious Coffee Cake

All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups)
Granulated sugar (3/4 cup)
Salted Kerrygold butter (1/4 cup)
Large eggs (2)
Vanilla extract (1 tbsp)
Sour cream (1 cup)

The secret to a moist coffee cake is picking each ingredient carefully. Kerrygold butter adds richness, and sour cream makes it tender. It’s a delight to eat.

Streusel Topping Ingredients

All-purpose flour (1 2/3 cups)
Light brown sugar (1/2 cup)
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup)
Ground cinnamon (1 tsp)
Melted salted Kerrygold butter (3/4 cup)

“The right ingredients transform a simple cake into a memorable experience.” – Baking Enthusiast

When you’re getting your coffee cake ingredients ready, make sure they’re at room temperature. This makes mixing easier and baking more even.

Pro Baking Tips

Use room temperature butter for better incorporation
Measure ingredients precisely
Choose a light-colored aluminum baking pan
Don’t overmix the batter

Your coffee cake will stay moist for up to 5 days if stored right. It’s a great choice for breakfast or dessert.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make the perfect coffee cake, you need the right tools. Having everything ready before you start makes baking fun and easy. Good kitchen tools can really improve your coffee cake’s taste and texture.

Essential Baking Pans

Choosing the right pan is key for baking coffee cake. A 9×9-inch square glass dish is best for this recipe. Glass pans spread heat evenly, leading to a golden crust and even texture.

Mixing Equipment Requirements

Good mixing tools are crucial for a great coffee cake. You’ll need:

2 large mixing bowls
Hand mixer or stand mixer with paddle attachment
Whisk or fork for dry ingredients
Rubber spatula for folding

Additional Tools for Success

For professional results, consider these extra tools:

Accurate measuring cups and spoons
Immersion blender with whisk attachment
Cooling rack
Parchment paper
Toothpicks for checking cake doneness

“The right tools transform good baking into great baking.” – Professional Baker’s Wisdom

Pro tip: Always prep your tools before starting your coffee cake baking adventure to ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.

Creating the Perfect Streusel Topping

The secret to an irresistible coffee cake is its crumbly topping. This layer turns a simple cake into a treat that everyone will love.

Making the perfect streusel needs focus and the right mix of ingredients. Let’s explore how to make a crumbly coffee cake topping that’s truly amazing.

Key Ingredients for Streusel Perfection

⅔ cup packed brown sugar
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled)

The magic of a crumbly topping is in its texture. You want uneven clumps for a crunchy, irresistible layer on your cake.

“The secret is in the butter – make sure it’s melted but not hot when mixing your streusel.”

Streusel Mixing Technique

Combine dry ingredients in a medium bowl
Slowly add cooled melted butter
Mix until crumbly – uneven clumps are perfect!
Refrigerate for 10 minutes before topping the cake

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Brown Sugar	⅔ cup	Adds sweetness and moisture
All-Purpose Flour	¼ cup	Creates crumbly texture
Cinnamon	2 teaspoons	Provides warm, spicy flavor
Unsalted Butter	¼ cup	Binds ingredients together

Pro tip: Store your streusel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 3 months for longer storage. This lets you prepare your topping ahead of time!

Step-by-Step Coffee Cake Recipe

Making the perfect coffee cake needs care and love. Whether you’re new to baking or experienced, these easy steps will guide you. You’ll make a treat that will wow everyone at breakfast.

First, get all your ingredients ready and set up your kitchen. Baking is like an art that requires focus on every detail.

Preparing the Batter

To begin your coffee cake, you’ll need some important ingredients:

8 tablespoons (113g) of butter, softened
1 cup (198g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 cups (240g) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Making the Cinnamon Streusel Layer

The streusel is key to a great coffee cake. Here’s how to make that delicious cinnamon layer:

3/4 cup sugar for cinnamon-sugar swirl
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 cup melted butter

Assembly and Baking Instructions

Here’s how to make the perfect coffee cake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F
Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well
Combine dry ingredients separately
Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture
Pour half the batter into a 10-inch tube pan
Sprinkle half the streusel mixture
Add remaining batter and top with remaining streusel
Bake for 30-40 minutes
Check doneness with a toothpick – it should come out clean

Pro tip: Avoid overmixing the batter to ensure a tender, moist coffee cake.

“Baking is love made edible” – Unknown

Your homemade coffee cake is best enjoyed fresh, with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Store at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze for longer preservation.

Tips for Making Your Coffee Cake Moist and Fluffy

Making a moist coffee cake is all about baking skills. It’s about knowing how ingredients work together. This creates a soft, tasty crumb that feels like a cloud in your mouth.

Here are some tips to make your coffee cake moist and fluffy:

Use fresh, high-quality buttermilk for maximum moisture
Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent tough textures
Measure ingredients precisely for consistent results
Incorporate vegetable oil to enhance cake’s softness

“The difference between a good and great coffee cake is in the details of preparation.”

Temperature and technique are key to a moist coffee cake. Using room-temperature ingredients helps the batter mix better. This makes the cake more even.

Ingredient	Moisture Impact
Buttermilk	Increases tenderness
Vegetable Oil	Adds softness
Eggs	Provides structure

Pro tip: Let your batter rest for 5-10 minutes before baking to allow ingredients to fully integrate.

By using these tips, you’ll make a coffee cake that will wow everyone. It will be soft, fluffy, and full of flavor.

The Secret to the Perfect Cinnamon Swirl Layer

Creating the ultimate classic coffee cake flavors is all about layering. The cinnamon swirl is the heart of your coffee cake’s charm.

Success comes from knowing the right mix of ingredients and technique. The perfect cinnamon swirl turns a simple cake into a breakfast delight.

Layering Technique for Maximum Flavor

To get the perfect cinnamon swirl, follow these steps:

Pour half the cake batter into your 9×9 inch baking pan
Sprinkle a generous layer of cinnamon streusel
Carefully spread remaining batter on top
Create gentle swirls with a knife for visual appeal

Ingredient Temperature Matters

Temperature is key for smooth, even flavors. Here’s how to prepare your ingredients:

Ingredient	Ideal Temperature	Reason
Eggs	Room Temperature	Ensures even mixing
Butter	Slightly Cool	Creates perfect streusel texture
Buttermilk	Cool	Maintains cake’s moisture

“The magic of a great coffee cake lies in its layers and temperature precision.” – Baking Experts

Remember, gentle handling is crucial. Spread the top layer of batter lightly to keep the streusel layer intact. Your patience will pay off with a coffee cake that looks and tastes amazing.

Optional Vanilla Glaze Topping

Make your coffee cake recipe even better with a simple vanilla glaze. This topping adds sweetness and a professional touch. It will wow your family and friends.

Creating the perfect vanilla glaze is easy. You only need a few ingredients from your pantry to make your coffee cake taste like it came from a bakery.

Ingredients for Vanilla Glaze

1 cup powdered confectioners’ sugar
2-3 teaspoons milk or heavy cream
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Pinch of salt (optional)

Glaze Preparation Technique

To make the vanilla glaze, follow these steps:

Sift the powdered sugar to remove any lumps
Add vanilla extract and milk gradually
Whisk until smooth and drizzling consistency
Let the coffee cake cool slightly before glazing

Pro tip: For a thicker glaze, use less milk. For a thinner drizzle, add a bit more liquid.

“A perfect glaze can turn a good coffee cake into an unforgettable dessert.” – Baking Enthusiasts Magazine

Drizzle the vanilla glaze over your slightly warm coffee cake just before serving. The glaze will set beautifully, creating an appetizing sheen. It makes your homemade treat look professionally prepared.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

Keeping your homemade coffee cake fresh is simple. With the right storage, you can enjoy it for days or even months.

Proper Storage Methods

Storing your coffee cake right is key to its taste and texture. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Room Temperature Storage: Store in an airtight container for 1-2 days
Refrigerator Storage: Keep it fresh up to 5 days with proper covering
Freezer Storage: Freeze for up to 3 months

Reheating Guidelines

Reheating your coffee cake is easy. Follow these tips to warm it up:

Microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds
Warm the whole cake in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes

Storage Method	Duration	Best Practices
Room Temperature	1-2 days	Use airtight container
Refrigerator	Up to 5 days	Wrap tightly in plastic wrap
Freezer	Up to 3 months	Double-wrap in freezer-safe packaging

“A well-stored coffee cake is a delicious coffee cake!” – Baking Enthusiast

By using these storage and reheating tips, your coffee cake will stay as tasty as when it was first baked.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

Enjoying your homemade coffee cake recipe? Knowing its nutritional info helps you make better choices. This tasty breakfast treat balances flavors and nutrients, fitting well into a healthy diet.

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional details for one slice of this coffee cake:

Serving Size: 1 slice (about 75 grams)
Total Servings: 12-16 slices per cake
Calories: 250-280 per slice

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Total Fat	8-10g	10-12%
Carbohydrates	45-50g	15-17%
Protein	3-5g	6-8%
Sugar	25-30g	50-60%

This coffee cake is a tasty treat, but enjoy it in moderation. The nutritional values can change based on ingredients and how it’s made.

“Enjoy your coffee cake as part of a balanced diet, savoring each delicious bite!” – Baking Experts

Pro tip: If you’re watching calories, share your coffee cake or cut it into smaller pieces. The recipe is flexible, making it easy to adjust for different diets.

Conclusion

Your journey to mastering the best coffee cake recipe is complete. This treat is simple yet full of flavor. It’s a great addition to your baking collection. With just 55 minutes, you can make a dessert that rivals the bakery’s.

This recipe is loved for its versatility and consistent taste. Since 2021, many have enjoyed its moist cake and crunchy streusel. It has a 4.8-star rating from 453 reviews, making it a favorite for any time of day.

Whether for 8-10 people or just for yourself, this recipe is a hit. It’s easy to follow, even for beginners. Your homemade coffee cake will impress everyone, just like a bakery’s.

Baking is all about love and precision. Follow the recipe well, enjoy the making, and relish every bite of your coffee cake.

FAQ

Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this coffee cake ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. Or refrigerate it for up to a week. To serve, reheat slices in the microwave or warm the whole cake in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes.

What makes this coffee cake different from other recipes?

This coffee cake is special because of the buttermilk. It makes the cake light and fluffy. The cinnamon streusel adds a delicious swirl and crunchy top, making it stand out.

Can I substitute buttermilk if I don’t have it?

You can make a buttermilk substitute. Mix 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This creates a similar acidic environment that tenderizes the cake.

Is this coffee cake suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

This traditional recipe includes eggs, milk, and gluten. For dietary restrictions, you’ll need to substitute with gluten-free flour, plant-based milk, and egg alternatives.

How do I achieve the perfect streusel topping?

For a perfect streusel, mix light brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Then, add melted butter until it’s crumbly. Make sure to spread it evenly and avoid overmixing.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to this coffee cake?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or chocolate chips are great additions. You can mix them into the batter or add them to the streusel for extra flavor and texture.

How do I know when the coffee cake is fully baked?

Check with the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done. Baking time is usually 35-40 minutes at 350°F (180°C).

Can I freeze this coffee cake?

Yes, you can freeze the coffee cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Did you like this recipe?

4.7

4.7 out of 5 stars (based on 6 reviews)

Excellent67%

Very good33%

Average0%

Poor0%

Terrible0%

Delicious recipe

01/27/2025

Nice recipe – really liked that everything was in one pan

jasmin

Good recipe