Are you craving a moist, tender, and flavorful coffee cake that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser? Look no further! This sour cream coffee cake recipe delivers on all fronts, boasting a perfectly crumbly streusel topping and a delightfully soft interior. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this classic dessert.
This recipe is perfect for brunch, coffee breaks, or any occasion where a sweet treat is needed. The sour cream adds incredible moisture and richness, resulting in a cake that's unbelievably tender and keeps well for several days.
What Makes This Sour Cream Coffee Cake Recipe So Special?
This recipe stands out from others due to its emphasis on achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The secret lies in the sour cream, which not only contributes moisture but also a subtle tanginess that beautifully complements the sweetness of the cake. The generous streusel topping adds a delightful crunch, creating a textural contrast that elevates the entire experience.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Streusel Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
Instructions:
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Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
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Prepare the Streusel: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the streusel topping. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Assemble and Bake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.
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Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use a different type of pan?
Yes, you can adjust the baking time and potentially the pan size. A 9-inch square pan would also work, but you might need to adjust the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking.
How can I store leftover coffee cake?
Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze this coffee cake?
Yes, you can freeze this coffee cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What are some variations I can try?
You can add nuts (like pecans or walnuts) to the streusel topping or even incorporate them into the batter. You can also experiment with different extracts, like almond or lemon extract, for a unique flavor profile. A glaze made with powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice would also be a delicious addition.
Is it possible to make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter and streusel topping ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator overnight. Assemble and bake just before serving. This is a great way to save time on busy mornings.
This sour cream coffee cake recipe is a guaranteed success. Its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it accessible to bakers of all skill levels. The result? A moist, tender, and utterly delicious cake that will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy!
