Cinnamon Coffee Cake Recipe: Cinnamon coffee cake—just hearing the name brings warm, comforting vibes, doesn’t it? It’s that beloved treat often served with morning coffee or tea, making breakfasts and brunches feel extra special. But despite the name, there’s no actual coffee in it. The “coffee” part refers to the tradition of enjoying it with your favorite cuppa, not inside the cake.
What sets cinnamon coffee cake apart is its deliciously moist texture combined with layers of crumbly, buttery cinnamon streusel. It’s sweet but not overly sugary, rich but not heavy, and simple yet absolutely indulgent. Whether you’re having guests over, planning a weekend breakfast, or just want something sweet to enjoy at home, this cake delivers every time.
This guide is your go-to for making the most classic, foolproof version of cinnamon coffee cake. From ingredients to techniques, we’ll cover every detail step by step. And don’t worry—whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying it out for the first time, this recipe is designed to be easy and rewarding.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the process, let’s talk ingredients. One of the best things about this cinnamon coffee cake recipe is that it uses basic pantry staples—things you probably already have on hand. Here’s the full list to keep it organized:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Streusel:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Simple vanilla glaze (1/2 cup powdered sugar + 1 tbsp milk)
Having fresh ingredients makes a noticeable difference in the taste and texture. Also, using room temperature eggs and butter will help the batter come together more smoothly.
Tools and Equipment Required
Don’t worry—you won’t need a fancy kitchen setup to make this. Just a few essentials:
- Mixing bowls (one large, two medium)
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×9 inch baking pan or 8×8 for a thicker cake
- Cooling rack
- Oven (preheated to 350°F or 175°C)
Using the right size pan ensures even baking and the perfect height for your cake. If you like a taller cake with more defined layers, go for the smaller 8×8 pan.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now let’s get to the fun part—baking! Follow these steps closely for the best results.
Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pan with butter or non-stick spray and lightly dust it with flour, or use parchment paper if you prefer an easy lift-out.
This step ensures the cake doesn’t stick and allows it to bake evenly from the start. Always preheat the oven first—temperature consistency matters more than you think.
Step 2: Making the Cinnamon Streusel
In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon. Then, using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work in the cold cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
This cinnamon crumb topping is the soul of a good coffee cake. Make sure the butter is cold—soft or melted butter won’t give you that crumbly, crunchy texture we’re aiming for. You want little bits of buttery goodness spread throughout.
Step 3: Mixing the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the dry mix. Don’t overmix—just blend until smooth.
The key here is to create a thick but smooth batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense, dry cake, and nobody wants that. The sour cream helps keep everything moist and rich.
Step 4: Layering the Cake and Streusel
Now it’s time to build your masterpiece. Start by spreading half of the cake batter into the bottom of your prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly. Then sprinkle half of your cinnamon streusel mixture evenly over the batter layer.
Next, gently spoon the remaining batter on top of the streusel. This part can be a little tricky since the streusel can mix in if you’re not careful. Drop spoonfuls of the batter over the layer, then slowly spread it out to cover completely. Finish it off by sprinkling the remaining streusel over the top.
This layered technique ensures that every bite has that perfect balance of soft cake and crunchy cinnamon sweetness. Think of it like building a lasagna, but with sweet, crumbly layers instead of pasta and sauce.
Step 5: Baking the Cake
Pop your layered cake into the preheated oven and bake for about 35–40 minutes if you’re using a 9×9 pan, or closer to 45 minutes for an 8×8 pan. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Once done, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 10–15 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely—or dig in while it’s still warm if you can’t wait. No judgment here!
The aroma will fill your kitchen with pure cinnamon bliss. The golden-brown crust with the crumbly topping is your signal that this coffee cake is nothing short of perfection.
Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Want to take your cinnamon coffee cake from great to legendary? Here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Use room temperature ingredients – This helps everything mix evenly and gives a smoother batter.
- Don’t skip the sour cream – It’s the secret to the cake’s ultra-moist texture.
- Cold butter in streusel is non-negotiable – It’s what creates that crave-worthy crumb texture.
- Layer carefully – To prevent the streusel from sinking, make sure the bottom layer of batter is thick and well-spread.
- Avoid overbaking – Check your cake 5 minutes before the timer goes off. Oven temps vary, and a few minutes too long can dry out the cake.
Pro tip: If you want an even fancier finish, drizzle a simple glaze over the top once the cake has cooled. It adds just the right amount of sweetness and gives your cake that bakery-style look.
Serving Suggestions
This cinnamon coffee cake is incredibly versatile and works well for multiple occasions:
- Morning Coffee: Obviously! It’s literally made for that pairing.
- Brunch Spread: Serve it alongside scrambled eggs, fruit, and breakfast sausage.
- Afternoon Snack: With tea or milk, it makes a great pick-me-up.
- Holiday Treat: A wonderful addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas morning menus.
You can serve it warm, cold, or at room temperature. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. The cinnamon flavors are comforting and nostalgic, making this cake a true crowd-pleaser.
Storage and Shelf Life
Don’t worry if you have leftovers (though that’s rare)—this cake stores beautifully.
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to a week. Just warm it slightly before serving to bring back the fresh-baked flavor.
- Freezer: Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag or container. It’ll keep for up to 3 months.
To thaw, just leave it on the counter for a couple of hours, or give it a quick zap in the microwave. The streusel stays crisp, and the cake stays moist—win-win!
Customization Ideas
One of the best parts about baking at home? You get to make it your own. This cinnamon coffee cake is fantastic as-is, but if you’re feeling adventurous, here are some fun ways to put your own twist on it:
Add Nuts
Chopped walnuts or pecans add a crunchy texture and nutty richness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon streusel. You can mix them into the streusel or sprinkle them on top before baking.
Fruit Variations
Add a layer of chopped apples, blueberries, or even thinly sliced bananas in between the batter layers for a fruity surprise. Apples and cinnamon are a natural combo that always wins.
Chocolate Lovers Unite
A handful of mini chocolate chips added to the batter or streusel can turn this into a decadent dessert. It’s not traditional, but it’s oh-so-good.
Make It Vegan
Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg), use a dairy-free yogurt in place of sour cream, and switch to a plant-based butter. The texture will still be soft and delightful.
Gluten-Free Version
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Make sure your baking powder and soda are also certified gluten-free. The cake might be a little more crumbly, but still delicious!
Customizing this cake allows you to cater to dietary needs or simply try something new each time you make it. You’re not just baking—you’re creating an experience.
FAQs about Cinnamon Coffee Cake Recipe
1. Can I make it in advance?
Yes! You can bake the cake a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.
2. What’s the difference between coffee cake and regular cake?
Coffee cake typically has a crumbly streusel topping and is less sweet than traditional frosted cakes. It’s meant to be served with coffee, hence the name.
3. Can I use brown sugar instead of white in the batter?
Absolutely. Brown sugar adds a slightly deeper, molasses-like flavor and makes the cake even more moist. You can substitute fully or mix the two.
4. How do I prevent the streusel from sinking?
Make sure your bottom batter layer is thick and well spread before adding the streusel. Also, avoid pressing it down—just sprinkle gently on top.
5. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, this recipe doubles well. Use a 9×13 pan and increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes. Just keep an eye on it and test with a toothpick.
Conclusion
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flexibility. With basic pantry ingredients and a little love, you can bake a homemade treat that’s far better than anything store-bought. And once you master this base recipe, the possibilities for variation and personalization are endless.
So, grab your apron, preheat that oven, and get ready to make a cinnamon coffee cake that might just become your new go-to. Your kitchen is about to smell amazing—and your taste buds are in for a real treat.
