How to Make a Classic Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping

How to Make a Classic Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping

A classic coffee cake is a moist, tender cake with a rich, buttery crumb and a deliciously crunchy streusel topping. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack, this cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to making this irresistible treat from scratch.

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Streusel Topping:

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or a round 9-inch springform pan with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Streusel Topping

1. In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in chopped nuts, if using. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for best results.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just incorporated. Do not overmix.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Pour half of the batter into the greased baking pan and spread evenly.
2. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter.
3. Add the remaining batter on top and gently spread it out.
4. Sprinkle the remaining streusel topping evenly over the surface.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown, with a slightly firm top.

Step 6: Add the Glaze (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Drizzle over the warm cake for added sweetness.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite cup of coffee.

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Tips for the Best Coffee Cake

• Use high-quality butter for a richer, more flavorful cake.
• Don’t skip the sour cream—it keeps the cake moist and tender.
• Let it cool before cutting to prevent crumbling.
• Add extra cinnamon for a more intense spice flavor.
• Try a layer of fruit like blueberries or sliced apples for a fresh twist.

This classic coffee cake with streusel topping is sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy!