Oh, the joy of biting into a perfectly moist coffee cake with your morning brew or as an afternoon pick-me-up! This recipe is a game-changer, offering a fluffy, buttery cake with a crumbly topping that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into the magic of baking this easy yet irresistible coffee cake.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of sour cream and butter ensures the cake stays moist and tender for days.
- A streusel topping adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.
- Simple ingredients come together quickly, making it perfect for last-minute guests or cravings.
- Baking at the right temperature guarantees a golden top without drying out the inside.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- For the streusel topping: 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup flour, 1/4 cup butter, 1 tsp cinnamon
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch round baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease your 9-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray to ensure your cake releases easily after baking. This step is crucial for a perfect presentation.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your cake has a uniform texture without any pockets of unmixed ingredients.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the softened butter, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, so stop when you no longer see flour streaks.
Prepare the Streusel Topping
Mix brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and butter until crumbly. Sprinkle this over your cake batter before baking for that signature coffee cake crunch.
Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Tips and Tricks
For an even moister cake, consider substituting half the sour cream with Greek yogurt. This not only adds moisture but also a slight tang that complements the sweetness. Always ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter. If you’re out of brown sugar for the streusel, white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses makes a great substitute. Lastly, for a nuttier flavor, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel topping.
Recipe Variations
- Add a layer of thinly sliced apples or pears between the batter and streusel for a fruity twist.
- Incorporate chocolate chips into the batter for a decadent chocolate coffee cake.
- Swap the cinnamon in the streusel for pumpkin spice during the fall months.
- For a gluten-free version, use your favorite gluten-free flour blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This coffee cake stores wonderfully. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.
Why did my cake turn out dry?
Dryness usually comes from overbaking or overmixing the batter. Ensure you’re checking the cake at the minimum baking time and mixing just until the ingredients are combined. Also, measuring your flour correctly (spooned and leveled, not scooped) can prevent a dry texture.
Can I use low-fat sour cream?
Yes, low-fat sour cream works in this recipe, but full-fat will give you the moistest cake. If you’re using low-fat, you might want to add an extra tablespoon of butter to compensate for the reduced fat content.
Summary
This easy moist coffee cake recipe is a foolproof way to bring a little joy to your table. With its tender crumb and crunchy streusel topping, it’s perfect for any occasion. Follow the tips and variations to make it your own, and enjoy the delicious results!
