This Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake is a perfect cake recipe for beginners. You can easily create a tender cake topped with a delightful crumbly streusel. It’s an ideal treat for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- All-Purpose Flour: You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-friendly option.
- Granulated Sugar: Brown sugar can be used in the streusel for a deeper molasses flavor.
- Unsalted Butter: Margarine or a plant-based butter alternative works well.
- Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a similar tangy flavor and moisture.
- Cinnamon: You can add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra spice.
Ingredients
For the Streusel:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Calories per serving: 320
- Tools Needed: 8×8 inch baking pan, mixing bowls, electric mixer (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Streusel
Combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Use your fingertips or a pastry blender to cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set this aside.
2. Preheat and Prep Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This makes cleaning up easier.
3. Mix Dry Cake Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure they are thoroughly combined before moving on.
4. Cream Wet Cake Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well incorporated. This adds air to your cake for a tender crumb.
5. Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
6. Assemble and Bake
Spread half of the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle half of the streusel mixture over the batter. Carefully spread the remaining cake batter on top, then sprinkle with the remaining streusel. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool Your Cake
Let the coffee cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes. This allows the cake to set before you slice it. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Variation Ideas
- Berry Burst: Add 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries) to the cake batter before baking.
- Nutty Crunch: Include 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts in the streusel for extra texture.
- Citrus Zest: Add 1 teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the cake batter for a brighter flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Reheat individual slices briefly in the microwave for a warm, fresh taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bake this cake a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature.
Q: Why is my streusel melting into the cake?
A: Ensure your butter for the streusel is cold and cut into small pieces. This helps it hold its shape during baking.
Q: What if I don’t have sour cream?
A: You can use plain Greek yogurt as a 1:1 substitute for sour cream.
Q: How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
A: Insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
Q: Can I use a different size pan?
A: An 8×8 inch pan is recommended. If you use a larger pan, the cake might be thinner and bake faster, so adjust baking time.
Q: Is this considered a good cake recipe for beginners?
A: Absolutely! This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it an excellent cake recipe for beginners.