Why You’ll Love This Coffee Crumb Cake Recipe
If you’re a coffee lover like me, you’ll absolutely adore this Coffee Crumb Cake recipe. It combines the rich, comforting flavors of coffee with a delightfully moist cake, creating the perfect treat for any time of day.
The crumb topping adds a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the soft cake beneath. Imagine enjoying a warm slice with your morning brew or as an afternoon pick-me-up!
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings or cozy weekends at home. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on this delicious coffee-infused delight!
Ingredients of Coffee Crumb Cake
To create a scrumptious Coffee Crumb Cake that will have everyone asking for seconds, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients. Don’t worry; you likely already have most of these in your pantry. This recipe isn’t only easy to follow, but it also brings together flavors that dance on your taste buds. So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready to bake something truly delightful.
Ingredients for Coffee Crumb Cake:
- 1 (18 1/4 ounce) package yellow cake mix
- Cold brewed strong coffee (the amount needed will be as directed on the cake mix package, substituting for water)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup butter or 1 cup margarine, softened and cut into chunks
Now, when it comes to these ingredients, there are a few things to keep in mind. First off, using cold brewed strong coffee instead of water in your cake mix adds a depth of flavor that just can’t be beaten.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different types of coffee to find your favorite!
Also, when it comes to the butter, make sure it’s softened; it really helps in creating that perfect crumbly topping. If you’re in a pinch, margarine works just fine, but butter does add that rich flavor we all love.
How to Make Coffee Crumb Cake
Making your own Coffee Crumb Cake is simpler than you might think, and let me tell you, the smell that fills your kitchen while it bakes is worth every minute.
To start off, preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This is essential because nobody likes a sad, undercooked cake, right? Grab that 18 1/4 ounce package of yellow cake mix, and instead of using water like the box suggests, substitute it with some cold brewed strong coffee. Trust me, this little switch transforms your cake from basic to downright delicious.
Mix it up just as the instructions say and pour it into a 15 x 10 x 1 inch baking pan. Let it bake for about 20 minutes.
While that’s happening, it’s time to get your crumb topping ready. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of firmly packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup of sugar (yes, that’s a whole lot of sweetness, but we love it), 1 tablespoon of instant coffee, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
Now, here’s where it gets a bit messy but oh-so-fun: take 1 cup of softened butter or margarine and cut it into the dry mixture using a pastry blender or even two knives. You want it to look like coarse crumbs. Just imagine you’re making a sandcastle, but the sand is buttery and sugary.
Once the cake is done baking, pull it from the oven and sprinkle that crumb mixture evenly over the top. Bake it again for another 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
And voilà, before you know it, you’ll have a beautiful Coffee Crumb Cake cooling on your wire rack, ready to be cut into squares.
Honestly, it’s so good that you might just find yourself sneaking a piece while it’s still warm, maybe even before serving it to your family or friends. But hey, who could resist a warm slice of cake?
Just remember, sharing is caring, but that doesn’t mean you can’t keep a piece (or two) for yourself. Enjoy every crumb!
Coffee Crumb Cake Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve whipped up that delightful Coffee Crumb Cake, you might want to explore some substitutions and variations to make it your own.
For instance, you can swap the yellow cake mix for a chocolate or gluten-free version. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans to the crumb topping for extra crunch.
You could even mix in chocolate chips or dried fruit for a burst of flavor. Instead of instant coffee, use espresso powder for a deeper coffee taste.
With these tweaks, your Coffee Crumb Cake will be uniquely yours and sure to impress!
What to Serve with Coffee Crumb Cake
While enjoying a slice of Coffee Crumb Cake, I love pairing it with a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich espresso. The cake’s sweetness complements the bold coffee flavors perfectly.
If I’m feeling a bit adventurous, I’ll add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. Sometimes, I even serve it alongside fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas to brighten the plate.
For a brunch setting, a light, fruity tea can also be a rejuvenating alternative. Each pairing enhances the cake’s comforting, crumbly goodness!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Coffee Crumb Cake turns out perfectly, I recommend measuring your ingredients accurately and not skipping the cooling step.
This cake tastes best when it’s allowed to cool completely, as it helps the crumb topping set nicely. If you want an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the batter.
You can also experiment with different spices, like nutmeg, for a unique twist.
For storage, keep it covered at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Enjoy your delicious creation with a cup of coffee!