Classic Coffee Cake: The Ultimate Recipe for a Sweet, Tender Treat

Indulge in the heartwarming delight of a truly Classic Coffee Cake, a timeless recipe featuring a sweet, tender cake base, a rich cinnamon-sugar filling, and an irresistible crumbly streusel topping. This is more than just a cake; it’s an experience, perfect for elevating any brunch, enriching a festive gathering, or simply making a lazy Sunday morning feel extraordinarily special. Prepare to discover your new go-to recipe for a comforting, utterly delicious baked good.

Why This Classic Coffee Cake Recipe Stands Out

There are countless coffee cake recipes, but this one truly deserves its “classic” title. From the very first bite, you’ll understand why it’s a staple in every baker’s repertoire. It harmoniously combines a moist, buttery cake, a delectable ribbon of warm cinnamon sugar swirled within, and a generous, crunchy streusel topping that adds the perfect textural contrast. This recipe delivers consistent, mouth-watering results, making it ideal for seasoned bakers and enthusiastic beginners alike. Whether you’re planning an elegant brunch or seeking a comforting companion for your morning coffee, this coffee cake promises to be a memorable treat.

What makes this specific Classic Coffee Cake truly exceptional is the careful balance of its components. The cake itself is incredibly tender, almost melting in your mouth, achieved by the inclusion of sour cream which adds an unmatched richness and moisture. The cinnamon-sugar layer isn’t just an afterthought; it’s a fragrant surprise that weaves through the cake, providing pockets of spicy sweetness. And the streusel? It’s a golden, buttery crown, crispy and flavorful, elevating each slice from simple to sensational. This combination ensures every forkful is a perfect symphony of textures and tastes, making it an instant favorite.

An Irresistible Indulgence You’ll Crave

Confession time: I have an absolute passion for coffee cake. There’s something undeniably magical about the interplay of textures—the delicate crumb of the cake meeting the satisfying crunch of the sweet streusel, all infused with the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon. It’s one of those foods that brings pure, unadulterated joy. Honestly, I’ve been known to stand by the kitchen counter, fork in hand, enjoying a slice (or two!) straight from the pan, without an ounce of guilt. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a moment of blissful self-indulgence, a comforting embrace in edible form. Its rich, aromatic presence fills the home with an inviting scent, making it incredibly hard to resist. Each layer contributes to its charm, from the tender base that holds everything together to the vibrant cinnamon swirl and the crown of buttery, spiced crumbs. It’s a treat that transcends mere sweetness, offering a complex depth of flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

Perfect for Any Occasion (or No Occasion at All!)

The true beauty of this Classic Coffee Cake lies in its remarkable versatility. While it shines brightly as the centerpiece of special brunches—think baby showers, engagement parties, birthday celebrations with friends, or holiday gatherings—it’s also wonderfully simple to whip up for those moments when you just want something delicious. Its crowd-pleasing appeal ensures it’s always a favorite, making hosting a breeze. Imagine the joy of waking up to a slice of this scrumptious cake on a leisurely weekend morning, perhaps with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. It transforms an ordinary day into something a little more luxurious and memorable. You don’t need a reason to bake this coffee cake; the desire for a delightful treat is occasion enough. Its comforting presence makes it suitable for intimate family moments or larger celebratory feasts, always bringing smiles and satisfaction.

Essential Ingredients for Your Classic Coffee Cake

Crafting this magnificent Classic Coffee Cake requires a few straightforward ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry and refrigerator. The quality of these components, however, plays a vital role in achieving that perfect texture and flavor profile. Below is a comprehensive list to ensure you’re fully prepared before you begin baking:

• Unsalted butter: Crucial for both the cake’s richness and the streusel’s crumbly texture. Using unsalted allows you to control the salt content.
• Granulated sugar: Provides essential sweetness and contributes to the cake’s tender crumb and the streusel’s crispness.
• Light brown sugar: Adds a deeper, molasses-rich sweetness and extra moisture, particularly important for the cinnamon-sugar layer and streusel.
• All-purpose flour: The structural backbone of the cake and streusel. Ensure it’s measured correctly for the best texture.
• Baking powder: The primary leavening agent, ensuring the cake rises beautifully and achieves a light, airy texture.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice, imparting its signature warmth and aroma to both the filling and the topping.
• Large eggs: Act as binders, add richness, and help with the cake’s structure.
• Sour cream: A secret ingredient for incredible moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness, resulting in an incredibly tender cake.
• Milk: Adds liquid to the batter, contributing to its consistency and moistness.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors, adding a comforting aromatic note.
• Kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and amplifies the overall flavor profile.
• 9×13 baking dish: The ideal size for this recipe, ensuring even baking and perfect portions.
• Electric mixer: Essential for creaming butter and sugar and thoroughly combining ingredients, saving time and effort.

Tips for Baking the Perfect Classic Coffee Cake

Achieving a truly perfect coffee cake is simpler than you might think with a few key techniques. Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature; this allows them to emulsify properly, creating a smoother batter and a more tender cake. When mixing, avoid overworking the batter once the flour is added, as this can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined. For the streusel, using cold butter and cutting it into the dry ingredients with a pastry blender or your fingertips will yield a delightful crumbly texture. Don’t be shy with the cinnamon-sugar layer—it’s what gives this cake its signature swirl and incredible aroma. Lastly, trust the toothpick test: a clean toothpick inserted into the center means your cake is perfectly baked and ready for cooling. These small details make a big difference in the final result, ensuring a moist, flavorful, and beautifully textured coffee cake every time.

How to Prepare Your Classic Coffee Cake

Making this Classic Coffee Cake is a straightforward process that yields incredibly delicious results. Follow these steps to ensure a perfect, tender cake with a glorious streusel topping every time.

1. **Prepare Your Pan:** Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking pan. This ensures the cake won’t stick and releases easily after baking.
2. **Cream Wet Ingredients:** In the spacious bowl of an electric mixer, combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, usually about 2-3 minutes. This creaming process incorporates air, contributing to the cake’s tender texture.
3. **Add Remaining Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. Next, mix in the sour cream, milk, and vanilla extract. Continue beating until all these wet ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Whisking ensures these ingredients are evenly distributed, which is crucial for uniform leavening and flavor.
5. **Incorporate Dry into Wet:** Slowly add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients in the electric mixer. Beat on low speed until the ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; overmixing can develop the gluten too much, resulting in a tough cake.

6. **Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Layer:** In a small, separate bowl, combine the 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup light brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Stir them well with a fork until the sugars and spice are thoroughly mixed. This will be the aromatic filling for your cake.
7. **Layer the Batter:** Spread exactly half of the prepared cake batter evenly into the bottom of your buttered 9×13-inch baking pan. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure an even layer.

8. **Add Cinnamon Sugar:** Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the first layer of batter in the pan. Distribute it to cover as much of the surface as possible.
9. **Add Second Batter Layer:** Carefully spread the remaining cake batter over the top of the cinnamon sugar mixture. Take your time to gently spread it without disturbing the layer too much.
10. **Prepare the Streusel:** In a medium bowl, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup light brown sugar, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon using a fork. Continue stirring until a crumbly mixture forms, resembling coarse sand with some larger clumps.
11. **Top with Streusel:** Generously sprinkle this irresistible streusel mixture all over the top of the cake batter in the pan. This will form the delicious, crunchy crust of your coffee cake.
12. **Bake to Perfection:** Bake for 50-60 minutes in the preheated oven. To ensure even baking, rotate the pan halfway through the baking time. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, with no wet batter attached.
13. **Cool and Serve:** Allow the coffee cake to cool in the pan for at least one hour before slicing into squares and serving. This resting period allows the cake to set fully, making for cleaner slices and enhancing its overall texture and flavor.

NOTE: If you notice the streusel topping is browning too quickly before the cake is fully baked, lightly tent the pan with aluminum foil. This will prevent further browning while allowing the cake to continue baking until it’s done all the way through.

More Delights with a Scrumptious Streusel Topping

If you’re a fan of the irresistible crunch and flavor of streusel, you’re in for a treat! Explore these other fantastic recipes that feature this beloved topping, offering a variety of ways to enjoy that perfect crumbly goodness:

• Maple Cinnamon Streusel Bread: Soft, sweet, and wonderfully spiced with cinnamon. With a tender crumb similar to a muffin and a delightful streusel top, it’s simply irresistible and perfect for any time of day!
• S’mores Streusel Muffins: These muffins are generously loaded with rich chocolate, gooey marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers, all crowned with a mound of s’mores streusel. A truly scrumptious treat you’ll want to enjoy again and again!
• Snickerdoodle Streusel Scones: Featuring an undeniable cinnamon-sugar streusel, these scones are so tender and flavorful, you’ll be dreaming of them every morning. A perfect pairing for your coffee or tea.
• Strawberry Streusel Muffins: Bursting with refreshing sweetness from fresh strawberries, these muffins are completed with an irresistible crunchy streusel topping. A vibrant and delicious choice!
• Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Bars with Peanut Butter Oat Streusel: A true mouthful of deliciousness! These bars offer a chewy, chocolatey, and utterly satisfying experience, made even better with their unique peanut butter oat streusel.

The Best Easter Brunch Recipes for a Festive Feast

Planning a delightful and festive Easter meal for your loved ones? Look no further than this curated collection of The Best Easter Brunch Recipes. From fresh and flavorful sides to festive snacks and decadent desserts, there’s an abundance of deliciousness to choose from, ensuring your holiday celebration is both joyful and incredibly tasty.

Optimal Storage for Your Coffee Cake

One of the many wonderful qualities of this Classic Coffee Cake is that it actually tends to taste even better the day after baking, as the flavors meld and deepen. This makes it an ideal recipe for preparing ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a fresh, flavorful treat without any last-minute rush.

To **store** coffee cake at room temperature, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will maintain its delicious freshness for 2-3 days on your counter. For extended freshness, you can keep it in the refrigerator for up to one week, ensuring it remains covered to prevent drying out.

If you wish to **freeze** coffee cake, first allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Then, cut the cake into individual squares or your desired serving sizes. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe baggie. When properly stored in the freezer, coffee cake will maintain its excellent quality and flavor for 2-3 months.

To **thaw**, remove the desired number of frozen slices and let them sit, loosely covered, on the kitchen counter for several hours until fully defrosted. You can also gently warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly baked feel.

We absolutely adore seeing your culinary creations! If you make this Classic Coffee Cake, please snap a picture and share it with me, or tag me on Instagram @thebakermama so I can admire your beautiful bakes. 😍 I love seeing how inspired and creative you all get with the recipes I share. Enjoy every tender, cinnamon-laced bite!

xoxo,

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Classic Coffee Cake

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5 from 1 review

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  Author: The BakerMama
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  Prep Time: 15 minutes
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  Cook Time: 60 minutes
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  Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
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  Yield: 12 servings

Print Recipe

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Description

This Classic Coffee Cake is an absolute must-bake! It features a sweet, tender cake base, a delectable layer of cinnamon-sugar filling, and a perfect streusel topping. It’s truly ideal for a delightful brunch with friends, or simply savoring during a relaxed Sunday morning.

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Layer:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Streusel Topping:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Liberally butter a 9×13-inch baking pan and set it aside.
2. In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth, light, and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). Then, add the eggs one at a time, followed by the sour cream, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt until well combined. Gradually add this dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients in the mixer, beating on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. For the cinnamon sugar layer, combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup light brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Stir with a fork until fully mixed.
5. Spread exactly half of the cake batter evenly into the bottom of the prepared 9×13-inch baking pan.
6. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter in the pan.
7. Carefully spread the remaining cake batter over the top of the cinnamon sugar layer, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
8. To make the streusel, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter in a medium bowl. Once melted, stir in 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup light brown sugar, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon with a fork until a crumbly mixture forms. Sprinkle this streusel generously all over the top of the cake batter in the pan.
9. Bake for 50-60 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning. The cake is finished when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for at least one hour in the pan before slicing and serving to allow it to set properly.

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Notes

*If you notice the streusel topping is browning too quickly before the cake is fully baked, gently tent the pan with aluminum foil. This will prevent further browning of the streusel while allowing the cake to continue baking until it is cooked all the way through.