Coffee cake has long been a beloved treat enjoyed with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. Its moist crumb and delightful crumble topping make it the perfect accompaniment to any leisurely afternoon or festive brunch. If you’ve ever craved that slice of goodness topped with a drizzle of glaze, then look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to make a classic coffee cake that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds.
Understanding Coffee Cake: A Brief Overview
Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to understand what coffee cake is all about. Originating from Germany and known as “kuchen,” coffee cake is a sweet, spiced cake made to be served alongside coffee. Although the name suggests it is coffee-flavored, a traditional coffee cake generally complements coffee rather than contains any coffee itself.
Key Characteristics of Coffee Cake:
- Moist texture: Coffee cakes are known for their tender, moist crumb, which comes from ingredients like sour cream or yogurt.
- Cinnamon streusel topping: The iconic crumb topping is a mix of flour, sugar, and cinnamon, which gives coffee cake its signature flavor.
- Versatile flavors: While the classic version leans towards cinnamon and vanilla, variations can include fruit or nut ingredients.
Now that we have a corner on the essence of coffee cake, let’s jump right into the recipe.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make a classic coffee cake, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk or coffee
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Preparation
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to get to work! Follow these easy steps to create your classic coffee cake.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
The first step in your coffee cake journey is to preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your cake bakes evenly and achieves the perfect texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a bundt pan with cooking spray or butter. For added security against sticking, you can line the bottom with parchment paper.
Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Next, drizzle in 1/4 cup melted butter and mix until you have a crumbly texture. Set aside for later.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. This mixture of dry ingredients helps to create a light and airy cake.
Step 5: Cream the Sugar and Butter
In another bowl, cream together 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of softened butter using an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 6: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add the 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and continue mixing until combined.
Step 7: Combine with Sour Cream
To your sugar-butter-egg mixture, add 1 cup of sour cream (or yogurt). Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
Step 8: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold in the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Use a spatula to mix until the batter is just combined; avoid over-mixing to keep the cake tender.
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan, spreading evenly. Then, sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top and finish with the rest of the streusel mixture.
Step 10: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it; timing may slightly vary based on your oven.
Step 11: Allow to Cool
Once baked, remove the coffee cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 12: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
While the cake is cooling, whisk 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk (or coffee), and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract together until smooth. This step is optional, but it adds a lovely finish to your coffee cake.
Step 13: Serve and Enjoy!
Once your coffee cake has cooled, drizzle with glaze (if desired), slice into squares or wedges, and serve with your favorite brew.
Tips for the Perfect Classic Coffee Cake
To ensure you make the best coffee cake possible, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
Choosing the Right Ingredients
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your baking powder, baking soda, and other perishables are fresh to achieve the best rise and flavor.
- Consider using high-quality butter: It significantly impacts the flavor of your cake, so choose unsalted butter for precision in controlling salt levels.
Experiment with Variations
While the classic coffee cake is delightful as is, consider adding mix-ins or variations:
- Fruit: Incorporate fresh blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples into the batter for added flavor and moisture.
- Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
- Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or cardamom for a unique spin on the classic recipe.
Storing and Freezing Your Coffee Cake
- Storing: Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: You can also freeze your coffee cake for later enjoyment. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, storing it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to enjoy.
Conclusion: A Timeless Treat
Baking a classic coffee cake is not just about the end product; it’s about the joy in the process and the delightful companionship it offers when served. As you make your way through this easy recipe, allow yourself to enjoy the aroma of vanilla and cinnamon filling your kitchen, the delight in every bite, and the warm conversations shared over a cup of coffee.
Whether enjoying it during a weekend brunch or celebrating a special occasion, this classic coffee cake will not disappoint. Happy baking!
What ingredients do I need to make classic coffee cake?
The essential ingredients for a classic coffee cake include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, unsalted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, and cinnamon. You may also want to include nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture and flavor.
Having the right ingredients on hand ensures that your coffee cake turns out delicious and moist. It’s important to use fresh ingredients, particularly the baking powder and baking soda, as they are key to achieving the right rise and texture in the cake.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that this may alter the texture and flavor of your coffee cake. Whole wheat flour tends to be denser than all-purpose flour, which might result in a heavier cake.
To maintain some lightness in the cake, consider using a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour. A common ratio is half and half, which can provide the health benefits of whole grains while still keeping the cake fluffy and tender.
How can I make my coffee cake more moist?
To achieve a moist coffee cake, it’s crucial to include wet ingredients like sour cream or yogurt, which help create a tender crumb. You can also add applesauce or pureed fruit, as these ingredients add moisture without significantly changing the flavor.
Another tip is to avoid overmixing your batter. Overmixing can lead to a tougher cake, so mix until just combined. Baking the cake at the proper temperature and checking for doneness with a toothpick will also help ensure your cake remains moist and delicious.
What type of pan should I use for baking my coffee cake?
For baking classic coffee cake, a 9×13-inch rectangular pan is typically recommended. This pan allows the cake to bake evenly and promotes a nice crust on the edges. If you’re looking for a more traditional look, a round cake pan works well too.
If you prefer a thicker cake, you might opt for an 8-inch square or round pan. Keep in mind that using a different-sized pan may affect the baking time, so be sure to monitor your cake closely to prevent undercooking or overbaking.
Can I freeze classic coffee cake?
Yes, classic coffee cake freezes well, making it a convenient option for batch baking. Allow the cake to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This double-wrapping helps prevent freezer burn and maintains the cake’s flavor and texture.
When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight. You can reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer a warm slice of coffee cake alongside your morning beverage.
What are some variations I can make to classic coffee cake?
There are countless variations you can experiment with when making classic coffee cake. Consider adding fruit like blueberries, strawberries, or chopped apples into the batter for an extra burst of flavor. You can also substitute the nuts with chocolate chips or swirls of nut butter to change it up a bit.
Additionally, think about incorporating spices beyond cinnamon, such as nutmeg or cardamom, which can add warmth and complexity. A crumb topping made with oats, brown sugar, and a bit of butter can also transform your coffee cake into a delightful streusel variant.
How do I store leftover coffee cake?
To properly store leftover coffee cake, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh for a longer period. If you’ve baked the cake in a pan, you can simply cover the entire pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Coffee cake can be kept at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for about a week. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices for easy access later on, but be sure to wrap them securely to maintain their freshness.
What drink pairs best with classic coffee cake?
A classic pairing for coffee cake is, unsurprisingly, a good cup of coffee. The rich and slightly sweet flavors of the cake complement the bitterness of coffee beautifully. You can choose a simple black coffee or indulge in a flavored latte or cappuccino, depending on your preference.
If you’re not a coffee drinker, consider pairing your cake with tea. A mild black tea or a chai latte works wonderfully, as the spices in the tea can enhance the flavors of the cake, making for a delightful afternoon treat.