There’s something incredibly comforting about the warmth of a fresh-baked coffee cake filling your kitchen. The inviting aroma of cinnamon mingling with hints of vanilla creates an atmosphere that draws everyone in, making it impossible to resist a slice. I discovered this Cinnamon Coffee Cake on a chilly morning when all I wanted was the perfect companion to my cup of coffee.
This delightful cake is a game-changer for anyone tired of the same mundane snacks or fast food meals. Its soft, tender crumb coupled with a sweet cinnamon filling and a crispy streusel topping is bound to impress, whether you’re baking for your family on a quiet weekend or hosting friends for brunch. Best of all, this recipe allows you to whip it up in about an hour, so you won’t have to wait long to indulge in that luscious, homemade goodness.
Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how easy it is to create this crowd-pleaser that elevates any coffee break!
Why is this Coffee Cake so irresistible?
Comforting Warmth: Enjoy the cozy aroma of freshly baked cake wafting through your home.
Perfect Balance: The delightful combination of cinnamon and vanilla creates a flavor harmony that’s hard to resist.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can create this delicious treat even if you’re a beginner.
Crowd Favorite: Impress your family and friends—this cake is perfect for brunch, dessert, or a coffee break.
Versatile Delight: Serve it plain or add a drizzle of glaze for that extra touch of sweetness.
This recipe is a fantastic alternative to fast food snacks, making your mornings feel special.
Coffee Cake Ingredients
For the Cinnamon Filling
• Light brown sugar – adds a rich sweetness that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
• All-purpose flour – helps bind the filling for a delicious texture.
• Ground cinnamon – this spice is the star of the show, bringing warmth and flavor.
For the Cake Batter
• All-purpose flour – gives the cake its structure and soft crumb.
• Baking powder – ensures your coffee cake rises beautifully and stays fluffy.
• Salt – enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter (softened) – contributes to a rich, tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar – sweetens the batter for a delightful bite.
• Light brown sugar – adds moisture and a subtle caramel note.
• Large eggs – bind and provide richness to the batter.
• Sour cream – adds moisture and a tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with sweetness.
• Vanilla extract – infuses the cake with a warm and inviting aroma.
For the Streusel Topping
• All-purpose flour – provides bulk and structure to the topping.
• Light brown sugar – sweetens the topping and adds depth to the flavor.
• Ground cinnamon – ties the topping to the cake with its warm notes.
• Salt – balances out the sweetness of the streusel.
• Unsalted butter (cold and diced) – creates a crumbly texture when mixed with the dry ingredients.
Optional Glaze
• Powdered sugar – sweetens the glaze for a delectable finishing touch.
• Whole milk – adds creaminess to the glaze for a smooth consistency.
• Vanilla extract – enhances the glaze flavor and ties it to the cake.
Get ready to fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of this delightful coffee cake by gathering these ingredients!
How to Make Coffee Cake
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Prepare the Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, ¼ cup flour, and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon until well combined. Set this delightful mixture aside for a moment.
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Create the Streusel Topping: In a medium bowl, combine ¼ cup flour, ½ cup light brown sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Add 6 tablespoons diced cold butter and press it into the mixture until it turns crumbly. Set aside.
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1¾ cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and ¾ teaspoon salt. This will serve as the foundation of your cake.
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Beat the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 10 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, and ¼ cup light brown sugar on medium speed for about 3 minutes, until light and fluffy. Add the two room-temperature eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, gently fold in ⅔ cup sour cream and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until everything is combined. Scrape the bowl to ensure no flour remnants remain.
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Layer the Cake: Spread half of your lovely cake batter into the prepared pan, making an even layer. Now, sprinkle the cinnamon filling generously on top.
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Finish with Batter and Streusel: Spoon the remaining batter over the cinnamon filling, spreading it out gently. Finally, sprinkle that delicious streusel topping evenly across the entire surface.
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Bake to Perfection: Place your cake in the preheated oven and bake for 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes—trust me, this wait will make it worth it!
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Make Optional Glaze: If you desire, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons whole milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle this sweet glaze over the cooled coffee cake for a lovely finish.
Optional: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for a special treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing this irresistible Cinnamon Coffee Cake in advance is a time-saving game changer for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings! You can mix the cake batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Additionally, you can prepare the cinnamon filling and streusel topping ahead of time—store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just spread the chilled batter into the pan, layer on the cinnamon filling, dollop with the streusel topping, and then pop it in the oven. This method ensures that your cake remains just as delicious and maintains its wonderful texture. Enjoy freshly baked coffee cake without the last-minute rush!
Expert Tips for Coffee Cake
Ingredient Temperature: Use room-temperature eggs and sour cream for a smoother batter and better rise.
Folding Technique: When incorporating flour into wet ingredients, fold gently to keep the batter light and fluffy.
Avoid Overbaking: Check for doneness a few minutes early to prevent a dry coffee cake. A toothpick should come out moist but not wet.
Streusel Texture: Ensure your streusel is crumbly rather than a paste; this adds a delightful crunch to your finished cake.
Cool Before Serving: Let the coffee cake cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting; this helps the flavors meld and keeps it from crumbling.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Coffee Cake?
There’s nothing quite like a cozy spread to elevate your coffee cake experience, making it the star of your gathering or quiet morning.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits add a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced cake, making each bite delightful. Think strawberries, bananas, and blueberries for color and flavor.
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Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that complements the dense coffee cake beautifully. It’s a simple yet luxurious addition.
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Coffee or Espresso: Pair your coffee cake with a rich brew; the flavors meld together perfectly, creating an inviting atmosphere for gatherings. A warm cup enhances the cake’s cozy feel.
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Yogurt Parfait: Creamy yogurt layered with granola and berries provides a tangy touch that contrasts with the sweetness of the cake. This pairing adds an element of indulgence and elegance.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of warm maple syrup drizzled over each slice enhances the sweetness and layers of flavor, making the cake even more decadent.
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Milk-Based Smoothie: Blend bananas, spinach, and almond milk for a nutritious drink that balances the richness of the cake with a fresh twist.
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Chocolate Cake Pops: For a sweet treat alongside your coffee cake, these bite-sized desserts will impress and satisfy those with a sweet tooth. Their fun presentation adds excitement to your table.
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Hot Chocolate: Cozy up with a cup of hot chocolate topped with marshmallows. The chocolatey goodness pairs deliciously with the cinnamon notes of the cake.
These delightful options will create a feast for your senses, making your coffee cake experience unforgettable!
Coffee Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this coffee cake your own while savoring its irresistible flavors!
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Nutty Addition: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch. Chopped nuts will provide a lovely texture contrast to the soft cake.
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Fruity Twist: Replace sour cream with ⅔ cup of applesauce for a hint of fruitiness and added moisture. This subtle change feels like a sweet hug in every bite!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut yogurt instead of sour cream and substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. The light coconut flavor beautifully enhances the cake.
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Chocolate Lovers: Fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter before layering for a rich and decadent twist. The warmth of cinnamon paired with chocolate creates a luxurious experience.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg and a touch of allspice to the cinnamon filling for an aromatic boost. These warm spices make every slice feel extra special, inviting that cozy atmosphere.
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to cater to gluten sensitivities. This simple adjust keeps the love and joy in every bite, ensuring everyone can enjoy!
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Zesty Citrus: Incorporate the zest of one orange or lemon into your batter for a refreshing citrus note. This brightened flavor will awaken your senses and brighten your morning!
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Decadent Topping: For a cream cheese glaze, blend 4 oz of softened cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, and a splash of milk until smooth. This velvety addition takes your coffee cake to the next level!
How to Store and Freeze Coffee Cake
Room Temperature: Store your cooled coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring it stays moist and delicious.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the coffee cake. Slice it into portions and wrap each slice in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. Enjoy within 2–3 months for best flavor.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 20-30 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, adding back that fresh-baked aroma to your home!
Cinnamon Coffee Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my coffee cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavors, opt for fresh ingredients. Use room-temperature eggs and sour cream, as they blend more easily and contribute to a tender crumb. When selecting butter, make sure it’s fresh and unsalted for control over seasoning. Ground cinnamon should be aromatic; if it doesn’t have a strong scent, it may be time to replace it.
How should I store my coffee cake, and how long will it last?
To keep your coffee cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it longer, you can refrigerate it, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to a week. Just be sure to store it properly to prevent it from drying out!
Can I freeze my coffee cake, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can! To freeze your coffee cake, slice it into portions first. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and place them into a freezer-safe bag or container. It will maintain its delicious flavor for about 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a piece, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, or heat it directly from frozen in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.
What should I do if my coffee cake comes out too dry?
If you find your coffee cake has turned out a bit dry, it could be due to overbaking or inaccurate measurements. Make sure to check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. If it’s not quite done yet, you can usually save it by serving it with whipped cream or a drizzle of glaze to add moisture back in!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! If you’re baking for friends or family with dietary restrictions, it’s best to consider potential allergies. This coffee cake contains dairy and gluten, so you might want to experiment with dairy-free substitutes like almond milk and gluten-free flour to accommodate those who are lactose intolerant or have gluten sensitivities. Always ensure to read labels for allergens if sharing!
Irresistible Cinnamon Coffee Cake for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, 1/4 cup flour, and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.
- Create the Streusel Topping: In a medium bowl, combine 1/4 cup flour, 1/2 cup light brown sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add 6 tablespoons diced cold butter and press until crumbly. Set aside.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 3/4 teaspoon salt.
- Beat the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 10 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup light brown sugar for about 3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Fold in 2/3 cup sour cream and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until combined.
- Layer the Cake: Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle the cinnamon filling on top.
- Finish with Batter and Streusel: Spread the remaining batter over the cinnamon filling and sprinkle the streusel topping evenly.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes.
- Make Optional Glaze: Whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons whole milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cake.