Introduction and Key Insights
Cinnamon coffee cake is a beloved treat that combines the rich flavors of cinnamon and sugar with a moist, tender crumb. This delightful cake is often enjoyed during brunches, coffee breaks, or as an afternoon snack. The warm aroma wafting through your kitchen while it bakes will entice everyone to gather around the table. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this cinnamon coffee cake recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
This classic recipe offers a delicious balance of sweetness and spice, making it an excellent choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions. The combination of a buttery base along with the crunchy streusel topping elevates this dessert to new heights. Whether you’re pairing it with a cup of coffee or serving it at a family gathering, this cake will surely impress your guests.
In this article, we will delve into the essential ingredients needed to create your very own cinnamon coffee cake, provide detailed instructions for preparing it step by step, and offer tips on how to serve and store your masterpiece. Get ready to indulge in the comforting flavors of this scrumptious treat!
Ingredients Overview for Cinnamon Coffee Cake
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour forms the foundation of our cinnamon coffee cake. For this recipe, you will need 2 cups (250 grams) of all-purpose flour. This versatile ingredient provides structure to the cake while allowing it to remain tender and moist when baked correctly. It is essential to measure the flour accurately; too much can lead to a dense texture.
Granulated Sugar
Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps create that lovely golden-brown crust on top of the cake. You will need 1 cup (200 grams) for the batter and another 1/2 cup (100 grams) for the streusel topping. Sugar not only enhances flavor but also contributes to the overall texture by retaining moisture in the cake.
Unsalted Butter
Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in your recipe while adding richness to your cinnamon coffee cake. You will require 1/2 cup (113 grams) melted butter for this recipe. The butter should be at room temperature before mixing so that it incorporates smoothly into the batter.
Eggs
Eggs are vital in providing structure and moisture in baked goods. In this recipe, two large eggs are used at room temperature (about 100 grams). They help bind the ingredients together while also adding richness and depth of flavor to your cinnamon coffee cake.
Milk
Milk hydrates the dry ingredients in our batter and contributes to a tender texture. You’ll need 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) of whole milk for this recipe. You can substitute low-fat milk if desired; however, whole milk yields a richer taste and softer crumb.
Ground Cinnamon
Ground cinnamon is what makes this coffee cake unique! You’ll need 1 tablespoon (8 grams) for the batter and an additional tablespoon for sprinkling on top before baking. Its warm flavor pairs beautifully with sugar and complements other ingredients perfectly.
Baking Powder
Baking powder serves as our leavening agent in this recipe, helping our cake rise beautifully as it bakes. We recommend using 2 teaspoons (10 grams) of baking powder mixed into your dry ingredients. Ensure that your baking powder is fresh; otherwise, it may not provide enough lift during baking.
Salt
Salt enhances all flavors in baked goods while balancing out sweetness from sugar. You will need 1/2 teaspoon (3 grams) in this recipe; it’s best to use fine sea salt or regular table salt for even distribution throughout your batter.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract adds an aromatic quality that complements all other flavors present in our dish—especially the warm notes from cinnamon! Use 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) pure vanilla extract mixed into your wet ingredients before combining them with dry ones.
How to Prepare Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Step-by-Step Instructions: Preparing Your Batter
To begin making your delicious cinnamon coffee cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter to ensure easy removal after baking. In one bowl combine dry ingredients: whisk together 2 cups flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until evenly mixed; set aside!
Next up is mixing wet ingredients! In another bowl beat together melted butter with granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy—approximately three minutes should do! Add eggs one at a time followed by whole milk and vanilla extract—mix well after each addition until fully incorporated into creamy goodness! Gradually add dry mixture into wet mixture while stirring gently until just combined—do not overmix here!
Once combined perfectly pour half of your batter into prepared pan evenly spreading across bottom layer using spatula—this creates base layer upon which deliciously spiced streusel topping will rest later!
Creating Your Streusel Topping
Now let’s move onto creating that irresistible streusel topping that elevates our cinnamon coffee cake experience! In small bowl combine remaining flour from earlier (1/4 cup), granulated sugar (1/2 cup), ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon), plus melted butter again—mix together using fork until crumbly texture forms resembling coarse sand or pebbles!
Sprinkle half of this mixture over first layer before pouring remaining batter on top—spread carefully ensuring even coverage throughout! Finally finish off by sprinkling last portion of streusel evenly across entire surface prior placing into preheated oven where magic happens during next thirty-five-forty minutes!
Bake until toothpick inserted comes out clean indicating doneness has been achieved—allow cooling slightly before serving warm alongside favorite beverage like freshly brewed coffee!
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon coffee cake shines brightest when served slightly warm straight from oven paired with fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries alongside steaming mug filled with rich dark roast brew! Cut pieces generously sized allowing guests plenty opportunity enjoy every bite bursting full flavor goodness packed within those layers created earlier during preparation process!
For added indulgence consider drizzling glaze made from confectioners’ sugar mixed with milk over top surface once cooled completely—this elevates presentation while enhancing sweetness without overpowering delightful spices already nestled inside each slice waiting eagerly served upon plates around festive gatherings shared among loved ones!
Storing Tips
To maintain freshness longer ensure storing leftover slices properly wrapped tightly using plastic wrap placed within airtight container stored either refrigerator up five days max—or freeze individually wrapped slices keeping best quality up two months later thawed overnight placed countertop before enjoying again whenever cravings hit unexpectedly!
Always remember reheat leftover portions briefly microwave safe dish heating around ten-fifteen seconds returning delightful warmth reminiscent freshly baked right moments ago ensuring satisfaction remains high every time indulging again after initial round enjoyed earlier on occasion celebrated together friends family alike sharing joy found within sweet morsels made lovingly home kitchen atmosphere radiating warmth throughout space filled laughter happiness shared!
Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake when baking Cinnamon Coffee Cake is using stale ingredients. Freshness matters significantly, especially for flour, baking powder, and spices. Stale ingredients can lead to a cake that lacks flavor and rise. Always check the expiration dates on your baking essentials and store them properly. For the best results, consider investing in high-quality cinnamon. The flavor difference between fresh ground cinnamon and pre-ground can dramatically affect your cake.
Another pitfall is overmixing the batter. When you incorporate your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough texture rather than the light, fluffy crumb you desire in a Cinnamon Coffee Cake. This is due to gluten development; too much mixing activates gluten, making the cake chewy instead of tender. Remember that lumps are acceptable; they will bake out during cooking.
Failing to properly prepare your baking pan is another mistake that can impact your results. Ensure you grease and flour your pan adequately or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If the cake sticks to the pan, it may break apart when you try to remove it, ruining its presentation. Pay attention to the type of pan you use as well; metal pans often yield better results than glass because they provide more even heat distribution.
Lastly, don’t forget about cooling time! Many bakers pull their cakes out of the oven and slice them right away. This can lead to a crumbly mess. Allow your Cinnamon Coffee Cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling period helps set the structure of the cake and makes slicing much easier while keeping it intact.
Tips and Tricks
To achieve an exceptional Cinnamon Coffee Cake, start by measuring your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements if possible; this ensures consistency every time you bake. For flour, spoon it into your measuring cup rather than scooping directly from the bag, as scooping compresses it and leads to using too much flour, resulting in a dry cake.
Consider adding a bit of sour cream or yogurt to your batter for extra moisture and richness without affecting flavor negatively. These dairy products not only improve texture but also contribute to a tender crumb which is essential for any great coffee cake.
Experimenting with different types of cinnamon can elevate your recipe further. There are various kinds available—Ceylon cinnamon offers a sweeter taste compared to Cassia cinnamon which is more commonly found in stores. Choosing high-quality cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile of your Cinnamon Coffee Cake significantly.
Moreover, don’t underestimate the importance of layering flavors with toppings like streusel or nuts. A simple streusel topping made from butter, sugar, flour, and additional cinnamon adds delightful crunchiness and complements the moistness of the cake beautifully.
Finally, always keep an eye on baking times since ovens can vary greatly in temperature accuracy. Start checking for doneness about five minutes before the suggested baking time ends by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, it’s ready!
Suggestions for Cinnamon Coffee Cake
When making Cinnamon Coffee Cake, consider incorporating unique add-ins such as nuts or fruits for added texture and flavor dimensions. Chopped walnuts or pecans work wonderfully when mixed into either the batter or sprinkled on top as part of a streusel topping.
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding vanilla extract or almond extract into your batter. A teaspoon of pure vanilla extract enhances sweetness while almond extract provides an intriguing nutty twist that balances nicely with cinnamon.
Don’t shy away from experimenting with spices! Besides cinnamon, adding nutmeg or cardamom creates depth in flavor that elevates your coffee cake beyond basic expectations.
If you’re looking for an alternative sweetener option that still tastes great but reduces refined sugar intake, try using honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar in moderation; this gives your Cinnamon Coffee Cake natural sweetness while adding unique flavors.
Lastly, think about pairing your coffee cake with different glazes or frostings according to personal preference! A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk drizzled on top adds visual appeal while enhancing sweetness without overpowering the subtle flavors within the cake itself.
FAQs
What makes Cinnamon Coffee Cake different from regular cakes?
Cinnamon Coffee Cake is typically less sweet than traditional cakes and often features a crumbly streusel topping infused with cinnamon throughout its layers. This style focuses more on texture rather than elaborate decorations commonly seen on other cakes but allows coffee pairing perfectly due to its rich flavors without being overly indulgent.
Can I substitute whole wheat flour in my recipe?
Yes! You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in most recipes for Cinnamon Coffee Cake; however, you might want to adjust liquid levels slightly since whole wheat absorbs more moisture than white flour does—start by using 3/4 cup whole wheat flour per cup all-purpose flour used initially then adjust as needed based on batter consistency observed during mixing!
How do I store leftover Cinnamon Coffee Cake?
To maintain freshness after baking: wrap any leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them into an airtight container at room temperature for up two days maximum! Alternatively refrigerate slices if longer storage is required but allow them some time resting outside prior serving again so they regain some softness lost during refrigeration!
Can I freeze Cinnamon Coffee Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze it successfully: let it cool completely before wrapping tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil (double-wrapping protects against freezer burn). It should last around 3 months frozen! When ready-to-eat simply thaw overnight in refrigerator then enjoy!
What kind of coffee pairs best with this cake?
A medium roast coffee complements Cinnamon Coffee Cake wonderfully because its balanced acidity enhances flavors present within while remaining smooth enough not overwhelming palate—dark roasts may sometimes overshadow subtler tastes so avoid those unless preferred!
Is there a gluten-free version available?
Certainly! For gluten-free options: replace all-purpose flour utilizing certified gluten-free blends available commercially designed specifically suited baking purposes—always follow instructions provided thoroughly ensure desired outcome achieved accordingly!
Conclusion
Baking an outstanding Cinnamon Coffee Cake requires attention to detail while avoiding common pitfalls that could ruin its texture or flavor profile altogether. Remember that freshness matters immensely; use quality ingredients like pure vanilla extract alongside proper measuring techniques throughout preparation stages! Incorporating delicious add-ins such as fruits or nuts elevates this treat further enhancing its appeal even more so when paired alongside various beverages like medium-roast coffees perfectly complementing each bite enjoyed together!
With these crucial tips—including avoiding overmixing batters ensuring adequate cooling times—you’ll create memorable experiences around gatherings centered around warm slices shared amongst friends family alike creating lasting memories through delightful baked goods served fresh from oven every time!
PrintEasy Cinnamon Coffee Cake Recipe for Every Occasion
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- Author: Clara Rosewood
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cinnamon Coffee Cake is a rich, moist cake with a buttery cinnamon-sugar swirl and a crunchy streusel topping. This comforting cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack with your favorite beverage. The warm cinnamon flavor combined with the cake’s tender texture makes it a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
For the Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Streusel Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture becomes crumbly. Set aside.
- Make the Cinnamon Swirl:
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Mix the Cake Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over the batter.
- Add the rest of the batter and smooth the top. Sprinkle the streusel topping over the cake.
- Bake the Cake:
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For an extra texture, you can add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the streusel topping.
- This coffee cake stays fresh for 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American