The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
Coffee Cake Recipe: A Sweet Classic for Cozy Moments
There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of cinnamon, brown sugar, and warm cake wafting from the oven. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch or an afternoon pick-me-up, a slice of coffee cake feels like a warm hug. And the best part? You don’t even need coffee to enjoy it (though it pairs perfectly with a hot cup).
This coffee cake recipe is soft, moist, and full of flavor, with a buttery cinnamon streusel layered in and sprinkled on top. It’s a go-to treat when you want something special but easy enough for a beginner to pull off.
This guide will walk you through how to make the perfect homemade coffee cake, from ingredients and preparation to make-ahead tips and storage. Once you try this version, you might just stop buying it from the store altogether.
Recipe Snapshot (Quick Facts)
| Category | Details |
| Yield | 1 9×13-inch cake |
| Serving Size | 1 slice (1/12 of cake) |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Bake Time | 40 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour |
| Calories per Serving | ~330 calories* |
| Primary Cooking Method | Baking |
| Occasion | Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert |
| Diet Type | Vegetarian |
*Calories are approximate and may vary depending on exact ingredients used.
Coffee Cake Recipe
Course: CakesCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: MediumServings
12
servingsPrep Time
20
minutesBake Time
40
minutesCalories
330
kcalIngredients
- For the Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 eggs
1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract- For the Streusel Topping:
1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Directions
- Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray and set aside. - Make the Streusel
In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and mix with a fork until a crumbly texture forms. Set aside in the fridge to chill slightly—this helps create a crispier topping. - Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer for 2–3 minutes, or until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. This step is key to creating a light cake texture. - Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. - Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure the leavening agents are evenly distributed. - Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Add the dry ingredients to the butter-egg mixture in three parts, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—overmixing can make the cake dense. - Layer the Batter and Streusel
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth it out. Sprinkle half the streusel mixture evenly over the batter. Add the remaining batter, spread it gently, then top with the remaining streusel. Lightly swirl the top streusel layer into the batter with a butter knife to create a marbled look. - Bake the Cake
Bake for 38–42 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil during the last 10 minutes. - Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature
Notes
- Overnight: Assemble the cake the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bring it to room temperature before baking.
- Freezer: Bake the cake, cool completely, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm before serving.
Equipment You’ll Need
To make this cake, gather the following tools:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Whisk and spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
- Butter knife or offset spatula (for layering)
Storage Instructions
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To extend freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Microwave slices for 10–15 seconds to enjoy warm.
Ingredient Substitutions
Need to adjust the recipe for dietary reasons or ingredient availability? Here are some effective substitutions:
- Sour Cream: You can use full-fat plain Greek yogurt, buttermilk, or a dairy-free sour cream substitute.
- All-Purpose Flour: Swap with a gluten-free flour blend if you’re gluten-intolerant. Make sure it contains xanthan gum.
- Eggs: Replace with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water = 1 egg) or use a commercial egg replacer for a vegan option.
- Butter: Use dairy-free butter alternatives or coconut oil in equal parts. Keep in mind this may alter the flavor slightly.
- Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar or maple sugar can be used, although texture and taste may vary a little.
- Sugar-Free: Use erythritol or monk fruit sweetener blends for a lower-sugar option.
Extra Tips for a Better Coffee Cake
- Don’t overmix the batter – this ensures a tender crumb.
- Use room temperature ingredients – they blend more easily and evenly.
- For a crispier topping, chill the streusel in the fridge before sprinkling it over the batter.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel for a nutty crunch.
- Want a glaze? Mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tsp milk and drizzle over the cooled cake.
FAQ About Coffee Cake
Q: Why is there no coffee in coffee cake?
A: The name comes from the tradition of serving the cake with coffee, not because there’s coffee in the recipe.
Q: Can I make this in a round pan?
A: Yes, you can use two 9-inch round cake pans. Check for doneness a few minutes earlier.
Q: Can I freeze individual slices?
A: Yes. Wrap slices tightly and store in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, but reduce the amount slightly and expect a more tender texture.
Serving Suggestions
Coffee cake is best enjoyed:
- Warm with coffee or tea
- With a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert
- Alongside fresh fruit for brunch
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This coffee cake recipe is a comforting classic that’s simple to make yet full of flavor. The tender crumb, sweet cinnamon swirl, and buttery topping make every bite satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes part of your family traditions—reliable, cozy, and always welcome.
Once you try it, you’ll see why this homemade version beats any store-bought coffee cake, hands down.
