Delicious Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe
When it comes to coffee cakes, there’s something about the aroma of cinnamon and streusel that just captures your senses. As a barista, I’ve tried many coffee cake recipes and let me tell you, this crispy cinnamon streusel coffee cake recipe is a game-changer.
Are you tired of dry or bland coffee cakes that just don’t quite hit the spot? Fear not, my fellow caffeine enthusiasts. This recipe produces a moist, tender cake with a crispy topping made of buttery crumbles and cinnamon swirls. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll never have to settle for anything less.
This cake not only tastes heavenly but is also simple to make with basic pantry ingredients – flour, sugar, butter, vanilla extract, spices – the mouth-watering aroma will fill up your kitchen while it bakes in just about an hour’s time.
Whether indulging in a slice for breakfast or savoring it with afternoon tea, this cinnamon streusel coffee cake is sure to satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth. So let’s grab our aprons and get ready to whip up this heavenly treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ah, coffee cake. Just the name of it makes my mouth water. And when you add that sweet, crispy cinnamon streusel on top? Well, let’s just say I’m in breakfast heaven.
But I know what you’re thinking – why should I bother making my own when I can pick one up at the bakery down the street? Because trust me, once you try this Crispy Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake recipe, you won’t ever want store-bought again.
First off, the ingredients are simple and easy to find. You probably already have most of them in your kitchen right now. And if not, a quick trip to the grocery store will do the trick. Plus, with whole wheat flour and dark brown sugar mixed in, you can feel good about indulging in a little something sweet.
But let’s talk about that streusel topping. This is where the magic happens. With just a few pantry staples and a little bit of mixing, you’ll have a crispy, crumbly layer that perfectly tops off the moist and fluffy cake underneath.
And here’s the best part – this recipe is versatile. Feeling like adding some chopped nuts or swirls of cinnamon? Go ahead and make it your own. Want to swap out some ingredients for gluten-free options or use sour cream instead of milk? You do you.
I promise that once you sink your teeth into a slice of this Crispy Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake, you’ll never go back to those basic store-bought cakes again. So why settle for boring breakfast options when you could be waking up to this deliciousness every morning?
Ingredient List
Here’s what you need to whip up this delicious Crispy Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe:
Batter Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
Cinnamon Swirl Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Streusel Topping Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 5 ounces unsalted butter, cut into small cubes and cold
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Note:
Make sure that all of the ingredients are at room temperature before mixing, especially the butter and eggs. This will ensure that the batter comes together smoothly.
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, let’s get baking!
Steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
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In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk it together until all components are well mixed.
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In a separate bowl ready the cinnamon swirl, by combining 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon.
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Now we’ll add the liquid ingredients to the flour mix, whisking in one at a time. Start by adding 1/2 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature) and cream until it is light and fluffy.
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Next, add in 3/4 cup of granulated sugar and beat this mixture until it’s completely combined.
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Let’s now break-in the eggs; crack in 2 large eggs, one at a time, while beating continuously until each egg incorporates into the mixture completely.
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In went the dry mix standing ready; add in 1/3 of the dry mix to the wet mixture followed by adding half of 1 1/4 cups of milk; alternate this way until both mixtures merge completely forming a batter without any lumps.
Step 2: Make Cinnamon Streusel
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Using another mixing bowl, add in the dry ingredients – 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Mix these ingredients using a fork.
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Add in finely chopped nuts if you prefer a nutty crunchiness such as walnuts, almonds or pecans; add them to this dry mix and fold them with a fork together.
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Now add melted unsalted butter (1 stick), work quickly combining all these ingredients using a pastry cutter, fork or fingertips until you form fine crumbs.
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This mixture will be used to adorn the top of the cake to make it extra special.
Step 3: Assembling the Crispy Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake
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Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease and flour a pan (9×13) with softened butter.
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Pour half of the prepared batter into the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula until it covers the bottom of the pan.
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Sprinkle 3/4 cups of prepared cinnamon streusel mixture over this first batter layer evenly.
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Cover with the remaining batter by pouring in gently over this layer and finishing it off by smoothing on top carefully.
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Spread more generous amounts of cinnamon streusel topping over the top layer, till you end up with a thick crumbly layer on top which is guaranteed to form a crispy texture when baked to perfection.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Place in oven, preheated at 350°F for **45-50 minutes
Substitutions and Variations
I know some of you like to tinker with recipes to make them your own. If that’s the case, I’ve got some ideas for you on how to vary this cinnamon streusel coffee cake recipe.
First of all, let’s talk about flour. This recipe calls for a mixture of all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour, but you could easily use just all-purpose flour if that’s what you have on hand. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the whole wheat flour for another alternative flour like almond flour or coconut flour. Just be aware that this will change the texture and taste of the cake.
For a twist on the streusel topping, why not add in some chopped nuts? Pecans, walnuts, or almonds would all be delicious here. Or, if you’re feeling decadent, try making a salted caramel streusel by adding a bit of salt and caramel sauce to the mix.
If you’re looking for a change from the cinnamon flavor, you could try making a different type of crumb cake altogether. Swap out the cinnamon sugar mixture for a mixture of cardamom and ginger, or even make an apple crumble version by layering thinly sliced apples between the cake batter and streusel topping.
Last but not least, if you have dietary restrictions or preferences, there are plenty of ways to adapt this recipe to fit your needs. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. For a lighter version, try using sour cream or Greek yogurt in place of some or all of the butter in the recipe. You could also experiment with using different types of sugar (like honey or maple syrup) instead of white sugar.
Remember, cooking is an art form and experimenting with substitutions and variations is part of the fun!
Serving and Pairing
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making this delightful coffee cake, it’s time to indulge! A beautiful warm slice of cinnamon streusel coffee cake makes for an indulgent breakfast treat, as well as a perfect afternoon snack or even a dessert option.
Although the cinnamon streusel coffee cake tastes perfectly delicious on its own, there are a few ways you can take it up a notch. One option is to pair it with your favorite hot beverage. Coffee is the obvious choice here, but tea or hot cocoa would work seamlessly as well. Try pairing it with a velvety latte or strong black coffee to balance out the sweetness of the cinnamon streusel.
For those with more adventurous taste buds, why not pair your slice of cinnamon streusel coffee cake with something entirely unexpected like an apple crumble, apple crisp, or even apple cake? The tartness of the apples combined with the rich warmth of the cinnamon complements this coffee cake perfectly.
Moreover, if you want to keep it simple, add some whipped cream or ice cream to make it a decadent dessert. Or transform this into a celebration-worthy treat by adding some fresh berries on top.
No matter how you choose to serve it, be prepared to watch as every last crumb disappears before your eyes.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
There’s nothing better than enjoying a freshly baked cinnamon streusel coffee cake straight out of the oven. However, as a barista and baking enthusiast, I’m aware that sometimes life gets in the way, and we don’t always have time to make a cake from scratch every time we crave one. That’s where make-ahead, storing, and reheating techniques come in handy.
For those who like to plan their breakfast for the week or save time during busy mornings, this recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer until ready to use. Once the cake is cooled completely, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then a layer of tin foil. It will keep well in the fridge for up to five days or in the freezer for up to three months.
To reheat slices of chilled cake, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for five to ten minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds at a time until heated through. However, keep in mind that microwaving may make the cake texture slightly rubbery instead of crispy.
If you’re planning on serving this coffee cake at a gathering or brunch party, you can speed up things by preparing the crumb topping ahead of time and storing it separately in an air-tight container at room temperature until ready to use. The cinnamon streusel can also be made a day before using it by mixing all the ingredients together and keeping it chilled in the fridge.
In conclusion, storing and reheating this scrumptious cinnamon streusel coffee cake recipe is easy-peasy – just wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, foil it up, and store it in the fridge or freezer. If you’re planning ahead for serving it to guests at your next event or just craving it on a busy morning, making some components such as the topping beforehand can save you a lot of nerves and hassle.
Tips for Perfect Results
OK, so you’ve got your ingredients all sorted out now, and you’re ready to make the best Crispy Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake ever. But before you proceed to the recipe how-to, let me share with you some tips that will help you achieve perfect results.
First things first, follow the recipe. I know this may seem obvious, but sometimes we tend to improvise or skip a step because we think we know better. Believe me, the recipe has been tested and retested to ensure it yields the best possible outcome. Trust the process!
Another important thing to keep in mind is to use fresh ingredients, especially baking powder and baking soda. These two ingredients are responsible for making your cake rise and giving it a fluffy texture. If they’re not fresh, they won’t do their job properly and your cake might end up flat and dense.
Speaking of texture, let’s talk about flour. The recipe calls for a combination of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour, which gives the cake structure while also adding nuttiness and flavor. But be careful not to overmix the batter or your cake will turn out tough. Mix until just combined.
When making the streusel topping, make sure your butter is cold and cut into small pieces. This will help you achieve those delicious crumbles that make this coffee cake irresistible. And don’t forget to pack the brown sugar tightly when measuring – this will ensure that the topping sticks together.
Finally, when it comes to baking time, keep an eye on your cake so it doesn’t overbake or dry out. Every oven is different, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. You can insert a toothpick in the center of the cake – if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, your cake is done.
Follow these tips and your Crispy Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake will turn out perfectly every time. Now, let’s get baking!
FAQ
Now that you know all about making the perfect Crispy Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake, it’s time to address some of the most frequently asked questions. In this section, I’ll cover topics ranging from ingredient substitutions to baking times and everything in between. Don’t worry if you’ve never baked a coffee cake before or are grappling with an ingredient issue; my expert answers will have you well on your way to a delicious cake. So let’s get started!
What is the difference between coffee cake and streusel?
When it comes to cakes, crumb cake and coffee cake can be differentiated by the amount of streusel topping used in their recipes. Normally, crumb cake has a more generous layer of streusel topping as compared to coffee cake. Furthermore, you can make coffee cake even without the typical streusel topping.
Is cinnamon crumb cake the same as coffee cake?
Although crumb cake and coffee cake may bear some similarities, they are distinct pastries with differing textures and toppings. Coffee cake is sprinkled with streusel, while crumb cake is composed of both crumb and cake layers. In this article, I’ll be sharing a detailed recipe on how to make a delectable crumb cake.
Is streusel supposed to be crunchy?
The streusel is a classic German dessert that is characterized by its crumbly and flaky texture. It is often scattered on top of cakes or fruit desserts and features a crunchy cookie-like layer on top with a soft and delicate base.
What is the difference between coffee cake and crumble cake?
One way to distinguish between crumb cake and coffee cake is by examining the quantity of streusel topping present. Crumb cake typically boasts a more substantial layer of the crumbly topping than its coffee-flavored counterpart. Additionally, coffee cake has the option of being made without any streusel topping at all. In addition to these variations, individuals may encounter New York-style crumb cake, which has noticeably larger crumbs.
Bottom Line
Now that you know how to make a mouthwatering Crispy Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake, it’s time to get cracking! With its sweet cinnamon swirls and crunchy streusel topping, this coffee cake is sure to become a family favorite.
Remember, the key to a perfect coffee cake is quality ingredients, precision in measurements, and patience in preparation. Don’t rush the mixing process, and make sure to follow each step exactly as directed.
And if you ever find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry, just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. And when ready to enjoy again, simply heat up a slice for 20 seconds in the microwave or enjoy it cold.
So what are you waiting for? Gather all the ingredients and get baking! Trust me; your taste buds will thank you.
Crispy Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe
Ingredients
STREUSEL
- 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
CAKE
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 egg
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Grease and flour 9" square baking pan. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Combine streusel ingredients thoroughly in a small bowl, set aside.
- Cream together sugar and butter in a large mixing bowl.
- Beat in egg.
- Stir in milk.
- Sift together dry ingredients, add to mixing bowl. Stir until just combined.
- Spread batter in pan, and sprinkle streusel over top. As you are sprinkling, squeeze some streusel together into pebble-sized chunks, and drop them over cake batter.
- Bake at 350 degrees F for 25 to 35 minutes, until batter is golden brown and center springs back when touched lightly.
- Cool on a rack about 15 minutes before serving.
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