Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake

This Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake is a classic, comforting treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With a tender, moist cake base, a rich cinnamon streusel topping, and a sweet glaze, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make and delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, brown sugar, and butter in the streusel creates a rich, caramel-like topping.
• Moist and Tender Cake: Sour cream ensures the cake stays soft and fluffy.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from weekend breakfasts to holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

For the streusel:

• 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup (65 g) granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup (65 g) brown sugar (light or dark)
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons (85 g) butter, melted

For the cake:

• 1 ¾ cups (210 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ¼ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (1 stick or 113 g) butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (237 g) sour cream

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or a regular cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Streusel:
   • In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup flour, ⅓ cup granulated sugar, ⅓ cup brown sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and ⅛ teaspoon salt.
   • Pour in 6 tablespoons of melted butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups flour, 1 ¼ teaspoons baking powder, ¼ teaspoon baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Set aside.
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat ½ cup softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Add 2 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1 cup sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
4. Assemble the Cake:
   • Spread half of the cake batter evenly into the prepared pan.
   • Sprinkle half of the streusel mixture over the batter.
   • Carefully spread the remaining batter over the streusel layer. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
   • Sprinkle the remaining streusel evenly over the top.
5. Bake the Cake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • If the streusel starts to brown too quickly, cover the cake loosely with aluminum foil.
6. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes before removing it from the pan.
   • Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Add Nuts: Mix chopped walnuts or pecans into the streusel for extra crunch.
• Double the Streusel: If you love extra crumbly topping, double the streusel recipe.
• Glaze Option: Drizzle a simple glaze (powdered sugar + milk) over the cooled cake for added sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Pair with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a dessert twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?
A: Yes, plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream.

Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I use a different pan?
A: Yes, a 9×9-inch square pan or a 9-inch round cake pan will work, but adjust baking time as needed.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. With its moist crumb, buttery streusel, and warm cinnamon flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy the comforting flavors of homemade baking!

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