Irresistible Classic Coffee Cake Recipe

Introduction

This classic coffee cake recipe is a staple for any baker, offering a perfect blend of ease, flavor, and creativity that can be achieved with everyday ingredients. The combination of a moist cake, crunchy streusel topping, and sweet glaze makes it an irresistible treat for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. With its simplicity and impressive results, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The recipe strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and savory flavors, using ingredients that are easily found in most kitchens.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive appearance, this coffee cake is surprisingly easy to prepare, requiring minimal specialized equipment or techniques.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The end result is a beautifully presented coffee cake that is sure to impress, all with relatively minimal effort and time commitment.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup streusel topping (see below for streusel ingredients)
• Glaze ingredients: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk
• Streusel ingredients: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it with butter and dusting it with flour.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Step 3: With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Beat just until combined.
4. Step 4: Prepare the streusel topping by combining the flour, sugar, and cold butter in a bowl. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If using walnuts, fold them into the streusel mixture.
5. Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and top evenly with the streusel topping.
6. Step 6: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Step 7: Prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled coffee cake.

Handy Tips

• To ensure the coffee cake is moist, do not overmix the batter, and make sure to not overbake.
• For an extra crunchy streusel topping, chill it in the freezer for 10 minutes before baking.
• Consider adding different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra depth of flavor.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking the coffee cake is 350°F (175°C). It’s crucial to not overbake, as this can lead to a dry cake. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the cake after 30 minutes and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If the toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right crunch factor in the streusel topping is key to this recipe’s success. This can be done by ensuring the butter is cold and worked into the flour and sugar just until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Baking the coffee cake at the right temperature and for the correct amount of time also helps in maintaining the crunch of the streusel.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh and high-quality ingredients can elevate the flavor and texture of your coffee cake.
• Don’t overmix: Mixing the batter just until the ingredients come together helps in retaining the moisture and structure of the cake.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding different extracts like almond or coconut to the batter for unique flavor variations.

Storage Tips

• The coffee cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, wrap the coffee cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave.
• Consider storing the streusel topping separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months for future use.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This coffee cake makes a wonderful gift, especially when beautifully packaged. Consider wrapping the cooled cake in decorative paper or a gift bag, and tie with a ribbon. You could also package the cake in a reusable tin or container for a more premium gift. Adding a handwritten note or a packet of gourmet coffee can make the gift even more special.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the batter for unique flavor twists.
• Creative toppings: Experiment with different nuts like pecans or hazelnuts in the streusel topping, or add dried fruits like cranberries for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: Replace the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor, or use almond milk instead of regular milk for a non-dairy version.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the cake turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing. Try mixing the batter just until the ingredients come together.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of a particular ingredient, consider substitutions like using honey instead of sugar or applesauce instead of butter for a healthier version.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the cake while it’s baking, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If the toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, the coffee cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave when needed.
• Is it gluten-free? No, this recipe contains all-purpose flour and is not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flours to make a gluten-free version.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger coffee cake. Just ensure you have a large enough baking dish and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This classic coffee cake recipe is a versatile and delicious treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day. With its easy preparation, impressive presentation, and moist, flavorful texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make the recipe your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!