Decadent and Delicious Cinnamon-Pecan Coffee Cake Recipe
Hear ye, hear ye! Good ladies and noble gentlemen, today I bring to thee a most delectable recipe fit for royalty. Hold on to thy hats and prepare thy taste buds for a treat fit for kings and queens – the Cinnamon-Pecan Topped Coffee Cake Recipe.
This cake combines the perfect balance of sweetness and nutty flavor, with a touch of cinnamon that fills the air with its warm aroma. The cinnamon streusel topping, made of crispy pecans lightly toasted in brown butter and coated with cinnamon sugar, adds an extra layer of texture and flavor that will leave you speechless.
But wait, dear friends, there’s more! This recipe uses simple ingredients that can be found in any pantry, like buttermilk, baking soda, baking powder, flour and vanilla. Plus, it only requires one egg to create a magnificent cake that will impress anyone who tries it.
So let us gather round the table and share this mouth-watering masterpiece, as we embrace the true essence of home-baked goodness. Come one and all to experience the magic of this recipe – the Cinnamon-Pecan Topped Coffee Cake Recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hear me, all who yearn for a scrumptious coffee cake that will bring you to knees – this Cinnamon-Pecan Topped Coffee Cake Recipe will satisfy your cravings like no other! You’ll love this recipe from the first bite to the last crumb, and here’s why:
Firstly, let me start with the star of the show – the cinnamon pecan topping. This delectable layer, made with pecan halves, cinnamon, sugar, and butter, is like a warm hug on a winter’s day. It adds just the right amount of sweetness and crunch to the cake, making it irresistible.
Secondly, the cake base itself is soft and moist. Made with buttermilk, brown sugar, flour, vanilla extract, egg, baking soda, baking powder and sour cream – it has all you need for a deliciously decadent experience. The buttermilk makes each bite tender and sweet while the sour cream creates an unmatched creaminess that will make your taste buds dance in ecstasy.
And let’s not forget how versatile this recipe can be. With a few modifications and substitutions here and there, you can create variations of this masterpiece that are perfect for any occasion. Imagine a caramel pecan crumble version or even an apple-pecan streusel variation! The possibilities are endless.
In conclusion, this Cinnamon-Pecan Topped Coffee Cake Recipe is one that will leave you hankering for more. It has been crafted to perfection with the finest ingredients and expert technique to produce an exquisite cake that is sure to please. So why not try it out today? Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for it!
Ingredient List
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ¾ cup of pecans, lightly toasted and chopped
- 1 cup of light brown sugar, firmly packed
- 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- â…” cup of butter, room temperature
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of buttermilk
For the streusel topping, you will need:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 cup pecan halves
Ingredient Notes
Flour:
Make sure to use all-purpose flour for this recipe. Using any other type of flour will change the texture and flavor of the cake.
Pecans:
The quality of the pecans is important for the success of this recipe. Look for high-quality pecans that are fresh and have not been exposed to air for long periods.
Brown Sugar:
Dark brown sugar can be used in place of light brown sugar, but it will give a different flavor to the cake.
Butter:
Unsalted butter is recommended for this recipe so that you can control the amount of salt in the cake.
Buttermilk:
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can substitute with regular milk or make your own buttermilk by adding one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to one cup of milk, and letting it sit for five minutes.
The Recipe How-To
Now, let’s get to the good stuff! Here is how you can make this delicious Cinnamon-Pecan Topped Coffee Cake at home.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grease a 9-inch round cake pan with cooking spray.
Step 2: Make The Streusel Topping
In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¾ cup of pecans that have been lightly toasted. Once it’s well-combined, add in ¼ cup of melted butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly. Set this aside for later.
Step 3: Prepare The Cake Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¾ teaspoon of salt. Set this aside for later.
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the remaining butter (½ cup), granulated sugar (1 cup), and brown sugar (⅓ cup) on medium speed using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add in one egg at a time and beat well after each addition. Then, stir in vanilla extract (2 teaspoons).
Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually alternate between adding in the flour mixture and buttermilk (1 cup) to the mixing bowl. Beat mixture until everything is fully combined.
Step 4: Assemble The Cake
Pour the batter into the greased cake pan. Use a spatula or spoon to even out the batter so it’s level throughout.
Sprinkle the streusel topping made earlier over top of your batter. Then gently press the mixture down into the cake to ensure it sticks while baking.
Step 5: Bake and Enjoy Your Cinnamon-Pecan Topped Coffee Cake
Pop the cake into the oven and bake for roughly 50-55 minutes. Once the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, you can remove it from the oven.
As it cools, prepare your cup of coffee or pecan coffee of choice! Slice yourself a large piece of cake and enjoy the intricate flavors of this cinnamon-pecan masterpiece.
Substitutions and Variations
Hark! If thou art looking to modify this recipe, I shall give thee some counsel. Fear not, for there are many ways to customize this cinnamon-pecan topped coffee cake recipe to thy liking.
Firstly, if thou dost not have buttermilk on hand, thou canst substitute it with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Allow the mixture to sit for five minutes before using it in the recipe. This trick shall impart a tangy flavor similar to that of buttermilk.
Secondly, if thou art seeking a lighter version of this cake, I advise thee to swap out one cup of purpose flour with whole wheat or almond flour. Whole wheat flour adds nuttiness and chewiness to the cake while almond flour imparts a rich flavor and moist texture.
Thirdly, if thou hast a craving for an apple-cinnamon flavored cake, I suggest adding thinly sliced apples or diced apples into the batter before pouring it into the baking dish. Thou canst also prepare an apple pecan streusel by layering thinly sliced apples and pecan streusel on top instead of just pecans.
Fourthly, if thou art fond of caramel flavor, a brown sugar and butter pecan crumble topping would be perfect. Combine melted butter, brown sugar, chopped pecans, and a pinch of cinnamon then sprinkle over the batter before baking.
Lastly, I recommend that thou experiment with different shapes and sizes such as making a pecan babka, bundt cake, pound cake or even muffins. Thou canst also try a cinnamon swirl coffee cake by layering cinnamon and sugar mixture between two layers of batter. The possibilities are endless!
Remember that every variation shall affect the taste and texture of the coffee cake differently. So be brave and curious in thy substitutions and variations for each will yield a unique result that may become thy new favorite!
Serving and Pairing
Dear friends, let me tell you how to relish this cinnamon-pecan coffee cake recipe. This cake is perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, and it’s a great treat to savor with some rich, aromatic coffee or tea. A slice of this cake alongside a warm cup of coffee makes for a delightful match that will start your day right.
You could take the indulgence even further by serving a dollop of freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top of each slice. The cake’s warm, subtle cinnamon notes compliment an earthy coffee flavor with ease, making it a perfect pairing for those who want to elevate their coffee drinking experience.
If you’re hosting guests, cut the cake into bite-sized pieces and serve them as dessert finger bites with some hot coffee or tea. These are also great for outdoor picnics and office lunch meetings as an accompaniment with drinks.
Lastly, if you have any leftovers; be sure to store them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to three days. To reheat the cake slices, place them in the oven at 350°F/180°C for about five minutes, or until they are gently warmed through.
Serve and savor every bite of this special cinnamon-pecan-coffee goodness!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Hear ye, hear ye! The cinnamon-pecan topped coffee cake recipe may be the star of the show, but let us not forget that with great coffee cake comes great responsibility! Fear not, my dear friends, for I have some wisdom to impart upon thee.
First and foremost, if thou art tight on time, fret not for thou canst make this cake ahead of the actual event. To prepare this delectable treat ahead of time, bake it as per the recipe instructions and allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in a safeguarded spot at room temperature. This can last thou for up to three days before it loses its freshness.
If thou would like to store the cinnamon pecan coffee cake for a longer term, then place it in an airtight container before storing it in the refrigerator. It can last you up to five days in this manner. Be sure to warm it up before serving by placing it in the oven or the microwave.
Now let me divulge some insider knowledge regarding reheating. When reheating your beloved coffee cake, do so for no more than 15 seconds in the microwave while wrapped in a damp paper towel so as to keep it moist. If using an oven or toaster oven, wrap it loosely in aluminum foil and heat through until ready.
That’s all from me. May your cinnamon-pecan topped coffee cake remain fresh and irresistible till the last bite!
Tips for Perfect Results
As a barista, I’ve learned that the key to making great coffee cake is all in the details. Here are a few tips to ensure your cinnamon-pecan topped coffee cake comes out perfectly every time.
Firstly, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science and even a slight variation in ingredient amounts can make a big difference in the finished product. Use measuring cups and spoons for dry ingredients and a glass measuring cup for liquids.
In addition, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This will help them mix more evenly and create a smoother batter. Take eggs, butter, and sour cream out of the refrigerator at least an hour before you plan on baking.
Another tip is to sift your dry ingredients together before combining them with the wet ones. This helps avoid lumps in the batter and ensures even mixing.
When making the pecan topping, it’s important to use lightly toasted pecans for the best flavor. Spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes until just fragrant.
Lastly, be sure not to overmix your batter once all the ingredients are combined. This can result in tough or dense cake. Mix just until everything is combined and there are no lumps.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to have a delicious cinnamon-pecan topped coffee cake every time you make it.
FAQ
But holdeth, ere thou conjure the kitchen spirits and start on thy journey to culinary mastery, take heed and listen to the wise counsel of this barista. Forsooth, doubts and queries may arise in thy quest to create the perfect cinnamon-pecan topped coffee cake recipe. Fear not, for here are answers to some frequently asked questions that shall put thy mind at ease and guide thee towards thy sweet victory.
What is the difference between coffee cake and cinnamon cake?
One notable variation between coffee cake and other cakes is the emphasis on its topping. Coffee cakes are adorned with a crumbly or streusel topping, unlike regular cakes that are commonly frosted or glazed. This means that making coffee cakes is less time-consuming as the topping is already baked into the cake itself.
What makes coffee cake different from cake?
Coffee cakes are distinct from other types of cakes as they are decorated with streusel topping instead of frosting. Although some may be topped with a glaze, they typically don’t have frosting. Coffee cakes may include swirls of streusel or a variety of fillings such as fruit, nuts, or chocolate.
What’s the difference between coffee cake and streusel?
When it comes to distinguishing between coffee cake and crumb cake, the amount of streusel on top is the key factor. Generally, crumb cake has a thicker layer of streusel topping while coffee cake can be made without it.
What is coffee cake topping made of?
The terms crumble, streusel and crumb topping can be interchangeable as they all refer to a scrumptious mixture of flour, sugar, and butter that can be used as a topping for various baked goods such as muffins, cakes, and pies.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the cinnamon-pecan topped coffee cake recipe offers a flavorful and satisfying treat fit for any occasion. Whether you are looking to impress your guests or simply indulge in a sweet pick-me-up, this recipe will not disappoint.
From the rich streusel topping made with pecans and cinnamon to the soft and moist cake base, every bite of this coffee cake is a masterpiece. The recipe has been crafted with care, using only the highest-quality ingredients such as buttermilk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon.
Moreover, this delicious recipe can be customized to suit any preferences or dietary restrictions. You can replace some of the ingredients with healthier ones without compromising on taste. For example, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour or substitute sour cream with non-fat Greek yogurt. Additionally, you can experiment with different toppings such as apple-pecan streusel or caramel-pecan crumble.
Overall, this cinnamon-pecan topped coffee cake recipe is an excellent choice for anyone who loves coffee and sweets. Not only does it make a delightful breakfast or dessert, but it also pairs well with both cream coffee and black coffee alike. So why not give it a try today? Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
Cinnamon-Pecan Topped Coffee Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, room temperature (no subs!)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, can use more
- 16 pecan halves
Instructions
- Set oven to 350 degrees.
- Butter and flour a 9-inch square baking pan (make certain that you pan has at least 2 inches on the sides, this cake rises high!).
- With an electric mixer cream butter with brown sugar in a large bowl until fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add in egg and vanilla; mix until well blended.
- Sift together flour, baking powder and baking soda; add into the creamed mixture alternating with the buttermilk.
- Transfer to prepared baking pan.
- In a small bowl mix together 3/4 cup sugar and cinnamon.
- Place the pecan halves in a single layer evenly on top of the cake batter leaving spaces in between them.
- Then press each nut about 1-inch into the batter.
- Spoon some of the sugar/cinnamon mix into the depressions (small holes) created by the pecans.
- Sprinkle the remaining sugar over the cake.
- Bake for about 45 minutes, or until cake tests done.
- Cool slightly in pan then slice into squares.
- Top slices with whipped cream if desired.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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