Simple Coffee Cake Recipe: Who doesn’t love a slice of moist, crumbly coffee cake with their morning brew? Coffee cake is one of those timeless recipes that brings comfort and sweetness to any occasion. Interestingly, a coffee cake doesn’t actually contain coffee as an ingredient—at least not traditionally. It’s called coffee cake because it pairs perfectly with a warm cup of coffee.
Coffee cakes have been enjoyed for centuries and come in various forms across the globe. From cinnamon-swirl classics to fruit-filled delights, this simple cake is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re planning a brunch, having guests over, or just want a sweet treat for yourself, a coffee cake is a go-to option. The best part? You don’t have to be a pro baker to nail it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s get down to what you’ll need. Most of these ingredients are probably already in your pantry, which makes this recipe super accessible.
Basic Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup sour cream (adds moistness)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Crumb Topping:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup cold butter (cubed)
Optional Add-Ons:
- Chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts)
- A sprinkle of nutmeg
- Drizzle of vanilla glaze
- Fresh fruits like blueberries or raspberries
These ingredients work together to create that signature texture—light and fluffy with a crunchy topping. The beauty of a coffee cake lies in its flexibility. Want a richer taste? Use full-fat sour cream. Prefer something a little lighter? Greek yogurt is a great alternative.
Kitchen Tools Required
Before you dive into baking, make sure you have the following tools on hand to make the process smooth and stress-free.
Must-Have Baking Tools:
- Mixing bowls (at least two)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- 9×9 inch baking pan or springform pan
- Rubber spatula
- Fork or pastry cutter (for crumb topping)
- Cooling rack
Tips for Efficient Baking:
- Use parchment paper to line your pan for easy cleanup.
- Room-temperature ingredients mix better and bake evenly.
- Pre-measure all ingredients before starting—this avoids the stress of finding missing ingredients mid-recipe.
With these tools ready, you’re set to create a homemade coffee cake that’s tender, sweet, and delightfully satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get into the heart of this guide—baking your coffee cake step by step. Follow these carefully, and you’ll end up with a bakery-style treat from the comfort of your kitchen.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grease your 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This ensures your cake comes out clean and doesn’t stick to the pan.
Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside. This sweet, buttery topping is what gives your cake that irresistible crunch and flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with sour cream. This means you’ll add some flour mixture, then some sour cream, and repeat until everything is well combined. Don’t overmix—it can make the cake dense.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle half of the crumb topping over it. Then, pour the remaining batter and finish off with the rest of the crumb topping. This layering creates a nice swirl and makes every bite more exciting.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Coffee cake is incredibly versatile, and how you serve it can take it to the next level. Whether you’re planning to enjoy it alone or serve it to guests, these ideas will help make your coffee cake experience even more delightful.
Best Ways to Enjoy Coffee Cake:
Fresh out of the oven is when this cake shines the most. That warm, cinnamon-scented slice with a soft center and crumbly topping is enough to make anyone’s day better. Serve it slightly warm for the best texture and flavor. A pat of butter melting on top? Even better.
Coffee cake is a hit during breakfast or brunch, especially when paired with other breakfast items like scrambled eggs, fruit salad, or even a yogurt parfait. Want to impress your guests at a brunch party? A coffee cake centerpiece with fresh berries and whipped cream will definitely wow them.
Pairing with Beverages:
As the name suggests, coffee cake goes perfectly with a cup of coffee—black, latte, espresso, or even cold brew. But don’t stop there. It’s also excellent with:
- Tea: Earl Grey, chai, or a soothing herbal tea like chamomile.
- Hot chocolate: Especially for a cozy, comforting treat.
- Milk or almond milk: A classic choice that kids love too.
No matter what drink you choose, the soft cake and crumbly topping balance beautifully with warm or cool beverages.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Want to enjoy your coffee cake over a few days? Good news—it stores really well, and you can even freeze it for future cravings.
How to Keep It Fresh:
If you’re planning to finish the cake within a few days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To extend its life, keep it in the fridge—it can last up to a week, but it’s best enjoyed within the first few days when it’s still moist and fluffy.
To avoid drying out, place a piece of parchment paper over the top before sealing the container. This helps preserve the crumb topping’s texture.
Freezing and Reheating Options:
If you want to store it longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Here’s how to do it:
- Let the cake cool completely.
- Cut it into slices and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped slices in a zip-lock bag or airtight container.
- Label it with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, unwrap a slice and microwave it for 20–30 seconds. You can also reheat it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to get that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste and texture.
FAQs about Simple Coffee Cake Recipe
1. Can I make coffee cake without eggs?
Yes! You can use egg substitutes like applesauce (1/4 cup per egg), mashed bananas, or commercial egg replacers. Just know it may slightly alter the texture.
2. What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a perfect substitute. You can also use buttermilk or a combination of milk and lemon juice/vinegar if needed.
3. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Absolutely! Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor and a bit more fiber. Using 100% whole wheat flour can make the cake denser.
4. How long does coffee cake last?
At room temperature: 3 days
In the fridge: Up to 7 days
Frozen: Up to 3 months
5. Can I add fruits or nuts?
Definitely! Try folding in blueberries, raspberries, or chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the batter for extra texture and flavor.
Conclusion
There’s something undeniably comforting about a homemade coffee cake. With its soft, fluffy interior and buttery, cinnamon-sugar crumb topping, it’s a dessert—or breakfast—that feels both indulgent and homely. The simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible to bakers of all skill levels, and the options for customization mean you can make it truly your own.
Whether you’re baking it for a family get-together, a casual brunch, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this simple coffee cake recipe delivers every time. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again—it might just become your go-to treat.
