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Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of a freshly baked coffee cake wafting through your home. The sweet scent of cinnamon combined with the rich, buttery flavor creates an inviting atmosphere that feels like a warm embrace. This Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel is not just a delightful treat for breakfast; it’s a perfect companion for your afternoon tea or a cozy gathering with friends. Whether you enjoy it alongside a steaming cup of coffee or as a stand-alone snack, this cake will soon become a cherished staple in your recipe collection.

Why Make This Recipe

The combination of rich flavors and delightful textures makes this cake a crowd-pleaser.
It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of day, whether for brunch, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
The simple step-by-step process takes only about an hour, making it a practical option for even the busiest weekday mornings.

Making Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel at Home

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delicious coffee cake. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is crafted to ensure that everyone can whip up an irresistible cake with ease.

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering coffee cake, you will need the following ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup brown sugar

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel

Preparation is Key: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing a 9×13 inch baking pan will help prevent the cake from sticking and ensure a beautiful, golden-brown crust.
Cream Together the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial, as the air you incorporate will help the cake rise beautifully.
Incorporate the Eggs: Add the eggs to the creamed mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Don’t forget to stir in the vanilla extract, as this will add a lovely depth of flavor to your cake.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed mixture, alternately with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture to ensure even incorporation, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle.
Prepare the Streusel Topping: In another bowl, mix the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a small amount of flour to create the streusel topping. This will add a delightful crunch and sweetness to your cake.
Layering the Batter and Streusel: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan, then sprinkle half of the streusel mixture over the top. Pour the remaining batter into the pan and finish with the remaining streusel. Making layers allows each bite to be filled with that cinnamon goodness.
Baking Time: Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. You can check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, your coffee cake is ready.
Cooling Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before serving. This will help set the flavors and make for cleaner cuts when you slice into your scrumptious creation.

Storage Tips for Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel

Once you’ve indulged in this delicious coffee cake, you might find yourself with leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store your cake to keep it fresh and tasty:

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: If you want to extend the life of your cake, refrigerate it for 3–4 days at 40°F.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the coffee cake for up to 2 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for easy thawing later.

Best Ways to Serve Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel

The beauty of coffee cake lies in its versatility. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your cake:

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea: Pair a slice of coffee cake with your morning coffee or afternoon tea for an indulgent experience.
Add Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside fresh berries or sliced bananas for a touch of fruitiness that complements the cinnamon.
Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate your cake to a new level of decadence.
Serving Warm: Warm a slice in the microwave for a few seconds, and enjoy the melty streusel topping and buttery texture.

Tips to Make Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel

To ensure that your coffee cake turns out perfect every time, consider these handy tips:

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature to ensure even mixing and a light texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so check your cake a few minutes early to prevent overbaking.

Variations or Substitutions

If you want to switch things up or accommodate dietary preferences, here are a couple of tasty variations:

Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the streusel topping for an added crunch and depth of flavor.
Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips into the batter for a delightful twist, creating a chocolate-cinnamon hybrid that is simply irresistible.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! You can bake the coffee cake a day in advance. Just store it properly, and it will taste great when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but be aware that it may result in a denser texture. You might want to mix it with all-purpose flour for the best outcome.

Q: How do I keep it moist?

Store in an airtight container.
Avoid overbaking.
Consider brushing with syrup for added moisture before serving.

Q: Can I add other spices?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with nutmeg or ginger for a spiced flavor profile.

Q: Can I use a different type of milk?
A: Yes, almond milk or oat milk can easily replace regular milk in this recipe without sacrificing flavor.

Nutritional Information

While coffee cake is a treat best enjoyed in moderation, knowing the nutritional content can help you manage your diet. Here’s a rough breakdown per slice (assuming 12 slices):

Calories: Approximately 230
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 14g
Protein: 3g

(Note: Nutritional information will vary based on specific brands and ingredient measures used in the recipe.)

Conclusion

Baking this Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel is more than just a culinary endeavor; it’s an experience that invites warmth, comfort, and joy into your home. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, sharing it with neighbors, or simply treating yourself on a quiet morning, this cake is sure to elicit smiles and satisfied sighs. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can easily find not just a recipe but a delightful ritual that brings people together. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a cake that will linger in love and memories long after the last crumb is gone.