Classic Coffee Cake Recipe

Written by: Editor In Chief
Published on:

Why You’ll Love This Classic Coffee Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to enjoy with your morning coffee, you’ll love this classic coffee cake recipe. The cake’s tender crumb and rich flavor make it irresistible.

I’m always amazed at how the warm notes of cinnamon blend perfectly with a sweet, buttery base. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, so I can have it ready in no time.

Whether I’m hosting friends or just indulging myself, this coffee cake never disappoints. It’s the ultimate comfort food, offering that cozy, home-baked feel that warms my heart and brightens my mornings.

You’ll want to savor every bite!

Ingredients of Classic Coffee Cake

When it comes to making a classic coffee cake, the ingredients play a starring role in crafting that deliciously tender crumb and flavorful finish. You might think that baking is all about the science, but honestly, it’s about the love and care you pour into it.

So, let’s gather those ingredients together and get ready for a cozy baking session. You’ll be amazed at how a few simple elements can come together to create something so delightful!

Here’s what you’ll need for the classic coffee cake:

  • For the Topping:
  • 1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
  • 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • A pinch of salt
  • 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • For the Cake:
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • Enough milk to equal 1 cup (or just use 1 cup buttermilk)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 6 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 2/3 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)

Now, you might be wondering about the choices of certain ingredients. For instance, using buttermilk can add a rich tanginess that elevates the flavor, but if you don’t have it, mixing vinegar with regular milk does the trick.

And don’t skimp on the cinnamon; it’s what gives that warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen and makes everyone’s mouth water. Also, remember to use cold butter for the topping to achieve those perfect crumbly bits.

You want that contrast of sweet, buttery topping against the soft cake. Just thinking about it makes my taste buds do a little happy dance.

How to Make Classic Coffee Cake

classic coffee cake recipe

Making a classic coffee cake is an experience filled with warmth and delicious aromas wafting through your kitchen. Let’s explore the process of whipping up this delightful treat.

First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. It’s like getting your home ready for a cozy gathering. While the oven warms up, grab a 9-inch square baking pan and coat it with cooking spray. This little step is essential; no one wants to wrestle with a stuck cake later.

Now, let’s tackle the topping. In a medium bowl, blend together 1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar, 2/3 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. The smell of cinnamon is already making my heart sing.

Once that’s mixed, take 1/4 cup of cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces, and use a pastry blender to cut it into the flour mixture until crumbs form. It’s like making a messy sandcastle, but better. Chill that mixture while we move on to the cake.

For the cake itself, if you’re not using buttermilk, pour 2 tablespoons of white vinegar into a measuring cup and add enough milk to equal 1 cup. This little science experiment helps create that tender crumb.

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.

Now, in a large bowl, beat together 6 tablespoons of softened butter, 2/3 cup of firmly packed light brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fluffy—about 2 minutes. It’s like a mini workout for your arms.

Add in 2 large eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Then, alternate adding the milk mixture and the flour mixture in batches, mixing until just combined.

Scrape that lovely batter into the pan, sprinkle the chilled topping over it, and pop it in the oven for about an hour. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let it cool in the pan on a wire rack, then dust with 2 teaspoons of confectioners’ sugar for that finishing touch.

Slice it into squares and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Seriously, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of biting into your own homemade coffee cake, and if all else fails, at least you can say you tried, right? Happy baking!

Classic Coffee Cake Substitutions & Variations

Classic coffee cake is a versatile treat that invites creativity in the kitchen. If you’re looking to switch things up, consider replacing the buttermilk with yogurt or sour cream for a tangy twist.

You can also experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or cardamom, to enhance the flavor. For a fruity variation, add blueberries or chopped apples to the batter.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating nuts or chocolate chips into the topping. Don’t forget, you can easily make it gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

The possibilities are endless, so let your imagination run wild!

What to Serve with Classic Coffee Cake

What pairs perfectly with a slice of classic coffee cake?

I love serving it alongside a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich espresso. The flavors complement each other beautifully!

For something a bit different, I sometimes offer a cup of herbal tea, which adds a nice contrast.

If you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the experience.

Fresh fruit, like berries or sliced apples, also makes a rejuvenating addition.

These pairings enhance the coffee cake and create a delightful treat for any occasion!

Additional Tips & Notes

Pairing coffee cake with your favorite beverages and sides is a great way to enhance the experience, but there are a few additional tips to guarantee your cake turns out perfectly every time.

First, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter. I always recommend using fresh baking powder and baking soda for the best rise.

If you want extra flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract.

Finally, let the cake cool completely before slicing; this helps maintain its moisture.

Trust me, these small adjustments can make a big difference in your coffee cake’s taste and texture!