A Comforting Coffee Cake That Brings Back That Bakery Magic

Isn’t there something wonderfully nostalgic about the smell of coffee cake baking in your oven? It’s the kind of treat that instantly transforms a slow morning into something special.

This version delivers everything you want from a classic coffee cake: soft, moist layers, a perfectly spiced streusel, and that irresistible crumble with each bite.

Regardless of if you’re preparing a cozy brunch or simply treating yourself with your morning cup, this recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the base, gather two cups of all-purpose flour, one cup of granulated sugar, half a cup of softened butter, two large eggs, and a full cup of sour cream.

These ingredients work together to create a plush, tender crumb that stays moist long after baking.

For the streusel topping – the signature element of any great coffee cake – you’ll need half a cup of brown sugar, one-third cup of flour, a teaspoon of cinnamon, and four tablespoons of melted butter.

Round it all out with a teaspoon of baking powder and a teaspoon of vanilla extract to bring warmth and balance to the cake.

Preparing The Cake Batter

Start by creaming the softened butter with the granulated sugar. Let them whip together for about three minutes, until the mixture becomes pale, airy, and fluffy – this step is key to achieving a light, tender cake.

Add the eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition so the batter remains smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream next, creating a rich, silky batter.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder, then gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.

Making The Streusel Topping

In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon, stirring until the mixture looks evenly blended. Pour in the melted butter and use a fork to work it through the dry ingredients.

Keep mixing until small, sandy clumps form – this crumbly texture is exactly what will give the coffee cake its irresistible topping.

The streusel should look like moist, fragrant crumbs you can pinch between your fingers. It’s simple, but it’s the part that makes each bite sweet, crunchy, and completely addictive.

Assembling And Baking

Grease a nine-inch square baking pan, then spoon in half of the cake batter, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

Sprinkle half of the streusel generously over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top, smoothing it gently with a spatula, and finish with the rest of the streusel.

Bake the cake at 350°F for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

As it bakes, the topping will melt slightly, crisp up, and settle into beautiful cinnamon-brown pockets across the top.

Cooling And Serving

Let the cake cool in the pan for at least fifteen minutes before slicing. This short wait helps the structure set, ensuring clean, even slices that don’t crumble apart.

You can enjoy the cake warm, when it’s soft and fragrant, or at room temperature with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to three days – though with a cake this good, leftovers rarely last that long.