This Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake is a true family favorite cake recipe, perfect for weekend breakfasts or a comforting dessert. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how its warm, sweet flavors fill your home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use a gluten-free all-purpose blend for a gluten-sensitive option.
- Granulated Sugar: Coconut sugar can be a less refined alternative.
- Brown Sugar: You can use light or dark brown sugar for the swirl.
- Sour Cream: Plain Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for moisture and tang.
- Cinnamon: Essential for that classic swirl; do not skip this!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (without glaze)
- Tools Needed: 9×13 inch baking pan, mixing bowls, electric mixer (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This prevents sticking and ensures your cake comes out beautifully.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients for the Cake
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure these dry ingredients are fully combined for an even bake.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until this mixture is smooth and well blended.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cake tough.
5. Create the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl. Stir them together thoroughly until you have a uniform mixture.
6. Assemble the Cake Layers
Pour half of the cake batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter.
7. Add Remaining Layers
Carefully dollop the remaining cake batter over the cinnamon layer, gently spreading it to cover. Sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar over the top.
8. Swirl the Layers (Optional)
Take a butter knife and gently swirl through the batter to create a marbled effect. Do not overdo it, or the swirl will disappear into the batter.
9. Bake the Coffee Cake
Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack.
10. Prepare and Drizzle Glaze (Optional)
If desired, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled coffee cake.
Variation Ideas:
- Nutty Swirl: Add ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl mixture.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Mix 4 oz softened cream cheese with ¼ cup sugar and 1 egg yolk, then dollop into the batter with the cinnamon swirl.
- Apple Cinnamon: Fold in 1 cup finely diced apples into the cake batter before layering.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for a fresh taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can you make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can bake it a day in advance and store it at room temperature.
- Why is my coffee cake dry? You might have overbaked it, or measured too much flour. Ensure you measure flour correctly and don’t overmix the batter.
- Can I freeze coffee cake? Yes, cool it completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
- What kind of sour cream should you use? Full-fat sour cream provides the best moisture and flavor.
- My swirl disappeared, what happened? You might have over-swirled the batter. A few gentle passes are enough to create a nice ribbon effect.
- Is this cake served warm or cold? It’s delicious both warm and at room temperature. Many enjoy it slightly warm with coffee.