Coffee cake. The very words conjure images of warm, comforting mornings, the aroma of cinnamon and sugar filling the kitchen. But finding the perfect coffee cake recipe can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. This isn't just any coffee cake recipe; it's a culmination of tried-and-true methods and flavor combinations designed to become your new go-to. This recipe focuses on achieving a moist, tender crumb and a perfectly crunchy, sweet streusel topping. Prepare to be amazed!
What Makes This Coffee Cake Recipe Top-Rated?
This recipe isn't just thrown together; it's the result of careful consideration of several key factors that contribute to the best coffee cake experience:
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The recipe carefully balances the sweetness of the cake with the warmth of cinnamon and the richness of butter in the streusel. It's a symphony of flavor, not a sugar rush.
- Moist and Tender Crumb: We'll use techniques to ensure a delightfully moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth. No dry, disappointing coffee cake here!
- Crisp and Crunchy Streusel: The streusel topping is the star of the show, and we'll make sure it's perfectly crisp and crunchy, providing a delightful textural contrast to the soft cake.
- Easy to Follow Instructions: Even beginner bakers can confidently tackle this recipe. Clear, step-by-step instructions ensure success every time.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Streusel Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
Instructions:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Make the Cake Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Make the Streusel: In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble & Bake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Serve: Let the coffee cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with a cup of coffee!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use other types of milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with 1 cup of regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to curdle before using.
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 coffee cake?
Yes, you can freeze 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, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to the batter for extra flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different spices in the streusel, such as cardamom or allspice.
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
You can prepare the batter and streusel ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
This top-rated coffee cake recipe is designed to bring joy to your kitchen and deliciousness to your table. Enjoy the process and the incredible results! Remember to share your creations and tag us – we'd love to see your baking triumphs!
