How to Make the Best Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of cinnamon and coffee filling your kitchen in the morning. It’s a warm welcome, a comforting hug, and a promise of a delicious day ahead. And what better way to start than with a slice of homemade cinnamon streusel coffee cake? This recipe is my family’s go-to, passed down through generations, and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s surprisingly simple to make, even if you’re a baking novice, and the end result is pure heaven: a moist, tender cake swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a buttery, crumbly streusel. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s get baking!

The Perfect Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk

For the Cinnamon Streusel:

• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Equipment You’ll Need:

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Whisk

Baking the Cake: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This will prevent the cake from sticking and ensure it bakes evenly.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is where an electric mixer comes in handy!

4. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream and milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, ensuring everything is well combined. Don’t overmix!

6. Make the Streusel Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and flour for the streusel. Cut in the cold butter using your fingers or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

7. Layer the Batter and Streusel: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with half of the cinnamon streusel mixture. Repeat with the remaining batter and streusel.

8. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before serving. This will allow the cake to set and the flavors to meld.

Tips for Coffee Cake Success:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before you begin. This will help them blend together smoothly and create a lighter, more evenly baked cake.
• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake.
• Even Streusel Distribution: When layering the streusel, ensure an even distribution across the batter for optimal flavor in every bite.
• Toothpick Test: To check if the cake is baked through, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready!

Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Slice

FAQs About Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake:

Can I use a different type of milk?
Absolutely! Whole milk, skim milk, or even plant-based milk alternatives like almond milk or soy milk will work well in this recipe.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Once it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature.

What can I serve with cinnamon streusel coffee cake?
This coffee cake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries.

Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Ingredients

Conclusion: Enjoy the Simple Joys of Baking

Baking a cinnamon streusel coffee cake is more than just following a recipe; it’s about creating memories in your kitchen. It’s the perfect treat to share with loved ones, a comforting companion for your morning coffee, or a delightful way to brighten someone’s day. So, why not preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and experience the joy of baking this classic treat?

Do you have a favorite coffee cake recipe or baking story? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! And for more delicious homemade treats and baking inspiration, be sure to explore other recipes on Family Cuisine. For instance, you might enjoy our guides on how to make streuselkuchen, sour cream coffee cake, or chocolate chip coffee cake. Happy baking!