Delicious Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake Recipe
Welcome to my recipe article where I’m going to show you how to make one of the most delicious and light coffee cakes ever! Have you ever had a coffee cake with rich, creamy cream cheese filling and a cinnamon crumb topping? If not, you are definitely missing out! This Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake Recipe strikes just the right balance between the buttery richness of the cake, the tanginess of the cream cheese, and the indulgent sweetness of the cinnamon streusel.
I created this recipe to satisfy all your cravings without compromising on flavor or calories. Whether you’re preparing it for breakfast or as a dessert, this light and moist coffee cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even beginner bakers can handle it.
This recipe combines simple ingredients like light sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract to make a light and fluffy batter. It gets even better with the addition of a rich mixture of 5% fat ricotta cheese and cream cheese filling. To top it off, it is covered with a cinnamon streusel that gives it an extra crunch and flavor.
I’m confident that this Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake Recipe will become one of your go-to items for special occasions or lazy weekends when you want to indulge your sweet tooth. So let’s dive in and get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you a fan of coffee cake but trying to watch your calorie intake? Look no further than this Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake (Light) Recipe! This recipe combines all the irresistible elements of a classic crumb cake with a tangy, rich cream cheese filling, all while being lightened up for a guilt-free indulgence.
But don’t let the word “light” scare you off – this coffee cake packs a flavor punch that will please even the most discerning palate. With ingredients like light sour cream and 5% fat ricotta cheese mixed into the creamy filling and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon in the streusel topping, this recipe manages to strike the perfect balance between decadence and health-consciousness.
Not only is this Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake (Light) Recipe delicious, it’s also incredibly versatile. Swap out the cinnamon in the topping for other spices like cardamom or nutmeg to create unique flavor profiles. Serve it as a breakfast treat with a steaming cup of coffee or as a dessert option alongside some fresh berries and whipped cream.
So go ahead and indulge in a little slice of heaven – this recipe provides all the satisfaction of an indulgent dessert without any of the guilt.
Ingredient List
Let’s take a look at the ingredients needed to make this delicious light Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake. As for the cake batter, you will need 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 and 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. For the cake filling, you will need 8 oz of light cream cheese, 1 egg, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. The streusel topping is made from a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter; while the cinnamon cream cheese drizzle is made from mixing together powdered sugar, cinnamon, cream cheese, and milk. To bring more moisture to the cake batter and make it lighter in texture, add in 1 cup of light sour cream.
The Recipe How-To
Now it’s time for the fun part – making this Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake (Light) Recipe! With my step-by-step instructions, you’ll have a delicious coffee cake in no time.
Ingredients
Before starting, make sure you have all the ingredients ready:
- Streusel Topping Cream Cheese Mixture:
- ½ cup flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- Cinnamon Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz light cream cheese
- 5% fat ricotta cheese, drained
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- Cake Batter:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 egg white
- 2 cups light sour cream
Step-by-Step Guide
- Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add it to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Add in the light sour cream and mix until everything is well combined.
- In another bowl, mix together all of the cinnamon cream cheese filling ingredients until smooth and creamy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly.
- Then pour all of the cinnamon cream cheese filling mixture over top, spreading it out as evenly as possible.
- Finally, pour the rest of the cake batter on top of the cream cheese layer, using a spatula to level it out.
- In a separate bowl, mix together all of the streusel topping ingredients until crumbly. Sprinkle it evenly over the top of the cake.
- Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature before starting.
- Use light sour cream in place of regular sour cream to keep this coffee cake light and fluffy.
- If you don’t have ricotta cheese
Substitutions and Variations
Hello, coffee cake lovers! Are you ready to experiment with some substitutions and variations to make your coffee cake even better? If so, read on!
First, let’s talk about the cream cheese filling. While I love the classic flavor of cream cheese, you can try 5% fat ricotta cheese instead for a lighter option. Or, add some flavor by mixing in lemon or orange zest to the filling. You could also try a delicious raspberry cream cheese filling by adding pureed raspberries to the mixture. The possibilities are endless!
Now onto the streusel topping. If you like a bit more crunch in your coffee cake, add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the topping mixture. You can also try substituting brown sugar for granulated sugar for a richer flavor.
If you’re looking for some texture variation in the cake itself, toss in some fresh strawberries or blueberries into the batter before baking it. Alternatively, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt to make your coffee cake more protein-packed.
Lastly, this recipe is easily adaptable to different pan sizes! Instead of baking it in an 8×8 square dish, try using a Bundt pan for a beautiful presentation or bake it in muffin tins and make individual servings of coffee cake.
Remember, there are no rules when it comes to baking! Feel free to experiment and make this coffee cake recipe your own.
Serving and Pairing
Now that your Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake is ready, it’s time to enjoy this fantastic dessert. This lip-smacking coffee cake is light and fluffy, having a delightful blend of sour cream and cinnamon cream cheese filling. It tastes heavenly, and you can serve it in many different ways.
This versatile cake tastes excellent with a variety of drinks, making it a universal treat for everyone. Since it’s not too sweet, you can pair it with your morning coffee or a hot cup of tea. To elevate the flavors, you can also serve it chilled with some fresh juicy berries on top or alongside some whipped cream.
You can create many variations of this recipe by playing around with different toppings or flavoring the filling. Adding some raspberry cream will give a refreshing and fruity twist to the traditional recipe. Another option is to swap out the cream cheese filling with strawberry or raspberry cheesecake filling – this will undoubtedly turn the heads of any cheesecake lovers!
If you’re planning on hosting guests for brunch or dessert, then this scrumptious Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake should be at the top of your list. Serve it directly from the oven while it’s still warm! Its aroma will entice everyone’s senses while its buttery texture melts in their mouths.
In conclusion, this Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake is an all-time favorite for everyone, ideal for any occasion or time of day. While its flavor profile makes it a perfect breakfast pastry or afternoon snack, its versatile nature allows one to take its taste to new heights by serving it with different beverages and topping options.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about this Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake (Light) Recipe is that it can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep or special occasions. To make it ahead, simply follow the recipe instructions and let the cake cool completely before storing in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with foil.
When it comes to storing this coffee cake, it’s important to keep it at room temperature for no more than 3 days. If you need to store it longer than 3 days or want to keep it fresher for longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Remember to cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or foil to keep it from drying out.
To reheat your coffee cake, you can either heat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm the entire cake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Just be sure to let the cake come to room temperature before reheating if it has been stored in the fridge.
Keep in mind that this coffee cake will taste best when enjoyed fresh out of the oven, so if possible, try not to make it too far in advance. But with these storing and reheating tips, you can still enjoy every last crumb of this delicious cream cheese-filled treat even after a few days!
Tips for Perfect Results
One of the most essential parts of baking is knowing the techniques that will help you achieve the desired results. I’ve compiled some tips and tricks that I believe would be useful when making the Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake recipe.
– Follow the recipe precisely: This tip may seem obvious, but it’s worth reiterating. It’s imperative to use all the ingredients on the list and follow the instructions correctly. Any deviation from the recipe can lead to unsatisfactory results.
– Use accurate measurements: Precision is key when it comes to baking. Measuring cups and spoons are your best friends when preparing baked goods. When measuring flour, spoon flour into a measuring cup and scrape off any excess with a straight edge.
– Room temperature ingredients: Remove all refrigerated ingredients from the fridge about an hour before starting the recipe. Room temperature ingredients blend more evenly, resulting in a better texture and softer cake.
– Mix only until combined: Don’t overmix your batter, which can lead to a dense and dry cake. Just mix until everything is combined.
– Testing for doneness: It’s important to check if your cake is ready to eat. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake, and if it comes out clean without any crumbs, then it’s done.
– Let it cool: As tempting as it might be to cut into your freshly baked coffee cake immediately, resist the urge. Cool your cake completely before slicing it up; otherwise, you run the risk of squishing or breaking apart your cake.
– Store appropriately: Store your cooled Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake either at room temperature or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage time, freeze for up to three months.
These tips should help you achieve perfect results every time you make this Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake recipe!
FAQ
As with any recipe, it’s common to have questions and concerns about making this cream cheese-filled coffee cake. I want to make sure you’re confident in the kitchen and can enjoy the process of baking this delicious treat. In this section, I’ll address some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the ingredients and technique involved in making this light and fluffy dessert. So let’s dive into some helpful tips that will guide you to create a beautiful, savory, and satisfying Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake (Light) Recipe.
What’s the difference between coffee cake and streusel?
When it comes to crumb cake and coffee cake, the amount of streusel topping is the main distinguishing factor. Generally, crumb cake has a more generous layer of streusel topping compared to coffee cake. Additionally, coffee cake can be baked without any streusel topping at all.
Does a cream cheese coffee cake need to be refrigerated?
Keeping the cakes or cupcakes with cream cheese frosting in the refrigerator is recommended to ensure their freshness and quality are maintained.
Can I use cream cheese instead of creamer?
Contrary to expectations, coffee can benefit from the addition of cream cheese. The unique taste of cream cheese offers a rich and intricate flavor profile that elevates the coffee experience. Furthermore, it softens the coffee’s acidity and enhances its texture, providing a more decadent and creamy sensation.
What do you add when making cakes to make them lighter?
If you want to make your cake less dense, consider adding an extra egg. Doing so will create a richer and fluffier cake. Moreover, when it comes to baking, keep in mind that egg yolks contain more fat than egg whites.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake (Light) Recipe is the perfect sweet treat for any coffee lover. Whether you are serving a crowd or simply indulging in a slice on your own, this cake will not disappoint. With its light and fluffy texture and the perfect blend of cinnamon and cream cheese flavors, it’s no wonder why this recipe is such a popular choice among cake enthusiasts.
Remember to use high-quality ingredients and follow the recipe carefully to ensure perfect results. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions as well. Whether you opt for a raspberry cream cheese filling or a crumbly streusel topping, this recipe is highly adaptable and can be adjusted to suit your individual tastes.
So why not give this Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake (Light) Recipe a try? It’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your household for any occasion – from Sunday brunches to holiday gatherings. With its delicious flavor and easy-to-follow instructions, this cake is guaranteed to impress even the most discerning of palates. So go on, get baking – your taste buds will thank you!
Cream Cheese-Filled Coffee Cake (Light) Recipe
Ingredients
Filling
- 3/4 cup 5% fat ricotta cheese
- 2 ounces light cream cheese, softened
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Topping
- 1/3 cup Grape-nuts cereal
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons water
Cake
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg white
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1 cup flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3/4 cup light sour cream
- 1/3 cup light strawberry jam
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F Spray a 8 1/2 inch springform pan with vegetable spray.
- Make filling: in a food processor, combine ricotta cheese, cream cheese, egg yolk, sugar, flour and vanilla; purée the mixture until it is smooth.
- Make topping: in a small bowl, stir together cereal, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, oil and water until crumbly.
- Make cake: in a large bowl and using a whisk, beat sugar, oil, egg, egg white and vanilla. In another bowl, stir together flour, baking powder and cinnamon. With a wooden spoon, stir the dry ingredients into the sugar mixture in batches, alternating with the sour cream, making two additions of dry and one of wet, and stirring the mixture just until it is combined. Pour it into a prepared pan.
- Melt jam in a microwave or on the stovetop. Spread it over the cake batter. Pour the filling over top, spreading it to cover the batter. Sprinkle with the topping.
- Place the pan in the centre of the oven and bake for 55 to 50 minutes or until a tester inserted in the centre comes out clean.
- Let cook on a wire rack.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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