Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake: The Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that perfectly complements your morning cup of coffee. This cake, layered with a rich cinnamon sugar mixture, creates a wonderful balance of sweetness and spice. Its tender crumb and buttery flavor make it a favorite among family and friends. Whether it's for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack, this coffee cake is more than just a dessert; it's an experience worth savoring.

Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen. The first bite of this cake melts in your mouth, revealing a deliciously moist interior and a crunchy streusel topping. This recipe evokes feelings of comfort and warmth, reminding us of lazy Sunday mornings spent with loved ones. It’s no wonder that Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake is considered a beloved staple in many households.

In this guide, you will discover the reasons why this recipe stands out, how to prepare it with ease, and tips on serving it beautifully. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this incredible coffee cake. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this amazing recipe that promises to satisfy their cravings for something sweet and comforting!

Preparation and Cooking Time

In total, preparing Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Here's how the time breaks down:

• Preparation Time: 20-30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
• Cooling Time: 10-15 minutes

These estimates may vary based on your baking skills and kitchen equipment, but this framework should help you plan effectively.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the Streusel Topping:

• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake can be a joyful endeavor. Follow these steps to craft your masterpiece:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Sour Cream: Mix in the eggs, one at a time, then add the sour cream and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
6. Prepare the Streusel: In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, chopped nuts (if using), cinnamon, flour, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly.
7. Layer the Batter: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
8. Add Streusel: Sprinkle half of the streusel mixture over the batter.
9. Add Remaining Batter: Pour the remaining batter over the streusel layer. Spread evenly to cover.
10. Top with Streusel: Sprinkle the remaining streusel topping over the final layer of batter.
11. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
12. Cool: Allow the coffee cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

By following these easy steps, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying this delicious cake.

How to Serve

Serving Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake can enhance the experience for you and your guests. Here are some tips to consider:

1. Presentation: Use a decorative cake stand or platter to display the cake. A simple presentation can make it look more appetizing.
2. Accompaniments: Pair with freshly brewed coffee, a hot cup of tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
3. Slice Size: Serve generous slices, but consider cutting them smaller for guests to enjoy seconds without feeling guilty.
4. Garnishing: Dust with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or serve with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

By considering these serving tips, you’ll create a memorable experience that elevates your Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake from good to truly remarkable!

Additional Tips

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to get creative! Adding a splash of almond extract can complement the cinnamon beautifully.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for better mixing and a fluffier cake.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test the cake’s center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready to be enjoyed!
• Let It Cool Properly: Cooling the cake in the pan for too long can cause sogginess. Transfer it to a wire rack after 15 minutes.

Recipe Variation

Customize your Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake by trying out these variations:

1. Add Fruits: Incorporate diced apples or berries into the batter for a delicious fruity addition.
2. Different Nuts: Swap the traditional nuts for pecans or walnuts for a unique flavor and texture.
3. Spiced Version: Mix in pumpkin spice to give your cake an autumnal twist.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: To maintain freshness, keep the coffee cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. It should stay fresh for about 5 days at room temperature.
• Freezing: Slice the cooled cake and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then store in an airtight container. This way, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Special Equipment

While preparing Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake, these essential tools will be helpful:

• Large mixing bowls for combining dry and wet ingredients.
• An electric mixer to cream butter and sugar effectively.
• Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient proportions.
• A 9×13-inch baking pan for perfect cake dimensions.
• A wire rack for cooling the cake evenly.

Conclusion

Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake is a timeless recipe that not only tastes divine but also fills your home with a comforting aroma. Its light, fluffy texture, delightful sweetness, and easy preparation make it a go-to for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with friends and family over coffee or as an indulgent afternoon treat, this cake brings smiles with every slice. So, gather your ingredients and create your own lasting memories with this incredible coffee cake!