Few things pair better with your morning cup of coffee than a warm, buttery slice of crumbly coffee cake. With its tender cake base and crunchy cinnamon-sugar streusel topping, it’s the kind of breakfast treat that feels indulgent yet cozy. The best part? Coffee cake is easy to make at home, and once you try it fresh from the oven, you may never go back to store-bought.
Gather Your Ingredients
The magic of coffee cake is in its layers: soft cake, buttery streusel, and sometimes even a sweet glaze. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream (adds moisture and tang)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the streusel topping:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Optional glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tablespoons milk + ½ teaspoon vanilla.
Step 1: Make the Streusel
The star of any coffee cake is the crumbly topping. To make it:
- Mix the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Set aside while you prepare the cake batter.
This topping bakes into that golden, crunchy layer everyone loves.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and sour cream.
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet, mixing just until combined. Don’t overmix—this keeps your cake tender.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
Now it’s time to layer.
- Spread half the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan.
- Sprinkle half the streusel evenly over the batter.
- Add the remaining batter on top and finish with the rest of the streusel.
This double-layer approach ensures every bite has both cake and crumb topping.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
If you’re adding a glaze, let the cake cool slightly before drizzling it on. Otherwise, dig in while it’s still warm for the coziest breakfast treat.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Coffee cake is best served warm, paired with—of course—a cup of coffee or tea. Cut into squares or slices, and don’t be shy about enjoying it for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.
Extra Tips for Success
- Use cold butter for the streusel—it’s what makes the topping crumbly.
- Sour cream is the secret to a moist cake, but Greek yogurt works in a pinch.
- Add chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) to the streusel for extra crunch.
- Store leftovers tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer.
Final Thoughts
Crumbly coffee cake is one of those timeless recipes that brings comfort to any morning. With its tender crumb, sweet cinnamon topping, and just-right sweetness, it’s the perfect companion to your favorite brew.
Next time you want to treat yourself—or impress guests—bake this simple yet irresistible cake.
👉 Save this recipe so you can make every breakfast feel a little more special!
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