Coffee Cake

A classic Coffee Cake is a moist, tender cake typically flavored with cinnamon and topped with a buttery, crumbly streusel. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack with coffee. Here’s a detailed recipe to make a delicious Coffee Cake:

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

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

For the Streusel Topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Filling (optional):

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square baking pan or a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. Prepare the Streusel Topping:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
   • Add the softened butter and use a fork or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Filling (Optional):
   • In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
4. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   • In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Assemble the Cake:
   • Spread half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan.
   • If using the optional filling, sprinkle it evenly over the batter in the pan.
   • Spread the remaining batter over the filling layer.
   • Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the top of the cake.
6. Bake the Cake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before serving.
7. Serve:
   • Slice the cake and serve it warm or at room temperature. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea.

Tips:

• Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter.
• For added flavor, you can add a handful of chopped nuts or a handful of fresh or dried fruit to the streusel topping.
• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

This Coffee Cake is perfect for a cozy morning treat or a delightful afternoon snack. Enjoy!