The Easiest Coffee Cake You’ll Ever Make

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If you’re looking for a quick, no-fuss coffee cake recipe that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any morning, you’re in the right place! This easy coffee cake recipe requires minimal ingredients, takes under an hour, and results in a moist, tender crumb with just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re whipping this up for a weekend brunch or an afternoon snack, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

Let’s dive into this foolproof recipe, complete with tips, FAQs, and all the info you need to bake the easiest coffee cake you’ve ever made!

Why You’ll Love This Coffee Cake

1. Simple ingredients – You likely have everything you need in your pantry.
2. Quick to make – Ready in under an hour, start to finish.
3. Delicious crumb topping – Adds a buttery, sweet crunch.
4. Versatile – Perfect with a cup of coffee, tea, or just by itself.

Coffee Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the cake:
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
• For the crumb topping:
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch square or round cake pan.
2. Make the crumb topping: In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until crumbly. Set aside.
3. Prepare the cake batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Mix just until combined.
5. Assemble the cake: Spread the batter evenly into your prepared cake pan. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely (if you can wait that long!).

Tips for Success

• Don’t overmix the batter: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake.
• Sour cream makes all the difference: It keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender. You can substitute plain yogurt, but sour cream adds a richer texture.
• Double the crumb topping: If you love an extra-thick, buttery crumb, feel free to double the topping for a more decadent cake.
• Add fruit: For a little twist, add fresh or frozen berries to the batter before baking for a fruity, tangy flavor.

Common Questions About This Recipe

Q: Can I use a different pan size?

Yes! While this recipe works best in a 9-inch pan, you can also use an 8-inch pan for a thicker cake. Just keep an eye on the baking time and adjust accordingly—it may need a few more minutes in the oven.

Q: What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can easily substitute plain Greek yogurt or even buttermilk. Both will give you a similar moist and tangy result.

Q: How should I store the coffee cake?

Store your coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for longer freshness, though bringing it to room temperature or warming it slightly before serving is best.

Q: Can I freeze coffee cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm up in the oven before serving.

Q: Can I add a glaze on top?

Yes! A simple powdered sugar and milk glaze drizzled on top will add a touch of extra sweetness and make the cake even more special. You can also flavor the glaze with vanilla or almond extract.

Enjoy this coffee cake with your morning brew, and feel free to experiment by adding your favorite twists. It’s easy enough to whip up for any occasion but delicious enough to impress!