Name: Coffee Cake
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 cup Brown Sugar (packed); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg; 1 teaspoon Salt; 3/4 cup Vegetable Oil; 1 cup Buttermilk; 1 large Egg; 2 teaspoons Cinnamon; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm slice of Coffee Cake. I remember the first time I tried it; it was a chilly afternoon, and my grandmother had just taken a freshly baked cake out of the oven. The aroma wafted through the house, drawing us all to the kitchen as if by magic. Every bite was a celebration of flavors, with the rich sweetness of brown sugar and hints of cinnamon working together seamlessly. This cake became a staple during family gatherings, a treat that brought us closer together over shared stories and laughter. Now, I want to share that same joy with you through this Coffee Cake recipe. It’s perfect for brunch or an afternoon snack, and trust me, it’ll be a hit with your friends and family!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
40 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Whisk, Baking Sheet, Oven

What’s Great About This Coffee Cake

Comforting Memories

This Coffee Cake recipe is not just delicious; it’s steeped in tradition and memories. Every time I bake it, I think back to the laughter-filled afternoons spent with loved ones, gathering around the table to enjoy a slice. It’s more than just a cake; it’s a way to create lasting memories with those you hold dear.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a cozy Sunday brunch or a holiday get-together, Coffee Cake fits right in. It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a stand-alone dessert, making it a fantastic option for any occasion.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

What I love most about this Coffee Cake is how simple the ingredients are. You don’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find items. Just grab your pantry staples like flour, sugar, and spices, and you’re ready to create something special.

Easy to Customize

Feel free to make this Coffee Cake your own! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a layer of fruit for a twist. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this recipe so fun and adaptable.

Great for Leftovers

One of the best parts about this cake is that it tastes just as good—if not better— the next day. You can enjoy it for breakfast or as a midday snack, which makes it perfect for meal prepping or having on hand for unexpected guests.

Family-Friendly

This Coffee Cake is a family favorite, and it’s a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen. They’ll love mixing the ingredients and, of course, sampling the batter. It’s a wonderful opportunity to teach them baking skills while making delicious memories!

Key Ingredients for Coffee Cake

When it comes to making a fantastic Coffee Cake, the right ingredients are essential. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that lovely texture and flavor. Let’s take a closer look at the key players in this delightful recipe.

All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cake, providing structure and a light texture.
Brown Sugar: Adds a rich, caramel flavor and keeps the cake moist.

Granulated Sugar: Balances the flavors and helps in browning the cake.
Ground Nutmeg: A warm spice that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Salt: A crucial ingredient that amplifies the sweetness and flavors of the cake.

Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
Buttermilk: Adds acidity, which reacts with the baking soda for a fluffy texture.
Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
Cinnamon: A classic spice that brings warmth and depth to the cake.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents ensure the cake rises beautifully.

Instructions for Coffee Cake

Ready to bake this tasty Coffee Cake? Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delightful treat in no time. Don’t forget to keep an eye on your cake – you want it to be perfectly golden brown and fluffy!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Move an oven rack to the middle position. This is crucial for even baking.
Prepare your 9-inch by 13-inch cake pan by coating it with nonstick spray. This ensures your cake comes out easily after baking.

In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground nutmeg, and salt. This mixture will create the dry ingredients that form the base of your cake.
Stir in vegetable oil until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is essential for achieving a crumbly texture that adds to the cake’s charm.
Reserve ½ cup of the crumb mixture for topping later. It will create a lovely, crunchy layer on top of the cake.

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, cinnamon, baking powder, and baking soda until smooth. This combination adds moisture and flavor to the cake.
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; this will help keep the cake light and fluffy.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Don’t worry about getting it perfectly smooth; it will bake evenly.

Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the top of the batter. This adds a delicious crunch and makes it visually appealing.
Bake in your preheated oven until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with a few crumbs attached. This should take about 40 minutes.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This waiting time allows the cake to set properly.

Things Worth Knowing

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter and even baking.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until everything is combined.
Testing Doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s perfect.

Cooling Time: Let the cake cool in the pan initially, then transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling.

Expert Tips about Coffee Cake

Here are some expert tips to help you nail this Coffee Cake recipe every time. With these tips, you’ll impress family and friends with your baking skills!

Storage: Store leftover Coffee Cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and moist.

Freezing: You can freeze slices of the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
Variations: Experiment with different add-ins like chopped nuts or chocolate chips in the batter for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.

Make Ahead: This Coffee Cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it covered at room temperature.

Serving Ideas for Coffee Cake

When it comes to enjoying Coffee Cake, the possibilities are endless. Here are some serving ideas to inspire you:

Brunch Delight: Serve warm slices of Coffee Cake alongside freshly brewed coffee or tea for a perfect brunch.

Snack Time: It’s a great afternoon snack option. Pair it with your favorite cup of tea or a glass of milk.
Holiday Treat: Make this cake for gatherings during holidays or special occasions. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Picnic Ready: Cut it into squares and pack it for a picnic. It’s easy to transport and always a hit.

Birthday Cake: Add some festive decorations to the Coffee Cake and serve it as a light birthday cake alternative.

FAQ

Coffee Cake is typically designed to be enjoyed with coffee or tea, which is why it often has a slightly less sweet flavor compared to traditional desserts. It’s denser and often features a crumbly topping made from flour, sugar, and butter. This cake is all about balance—flavor, texture, and the comforting experience of enjoying it with a warm beverage.

Absolutely! In fact, Coffee Cake is perfect for making ahead. You can bake it a day or two in advance, store it properly in an airtight container, and it will taste just as delicious when you’re ready to serve it. Some even say it gets better as it sits, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. It’s a great option for busy mornings or brunch gatherings!

Coffee Cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Of course, it’s fantastic with coffee or tea, but it also goes well with fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples. For a more indulgent experience, consider serving it with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. These pairings elevate the cake into a more decadent dessert while maintaining its charm.

While you can enjoy Coffee Cake with any coffee you like, a medium roast is often the best option. The richness of a medium roast complements the flavors of the cake without overpowering it. If you prefer something lighter, consider a mild, fruity coffee that can enhance the cake’s sweetness. Experimenting with different brews can lead to delightful discoveries!

Conclusion

This Coffee Cake is truly special, not only for its delightful taste but also for the memories it creates around the table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the warmth and joy it brings. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating or simply enjoying a quiet moment at home. So, grab your ingredients and start baking!

Coffee Cake

The ultimate comfort food, this Coffee Cake is moist, sweet, and packed with flavor. Perfect for brunch or a satisfying snack, it's so easy to make that you can whip it up any day of the week. Don't forget to enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee!

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 40

Total Time 45

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

Wooden Spoon
Mixing Bowl
Frying Pan
Whisk
Baking Sheet
Oven

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour
1 cup Brown Sugar packed
1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
1 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
1 teaspoon Salt
3/4 cup Vegetable Oil
1 cup Buttermilk
1 large Egg
2 teaspoons Cinnamon
1 teaspoon Baking Powder
1 teaspoon Baking Soda

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Move an oven rack to the middle position. This is crucial for even baking.

Prepare your 9-inch by 13-inch cake pan by coating it with nonstick spray. This ensures your cake comes out easily after baking.
In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground nutmeg, and salt. This mixture will create the dry ingredients that form the base of your cake.
Stir in vegetable oil until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is essential for achieving a crumbly texture that adds to the cake's charm.

Reserve ½ cup of the crumb mixture for topping later. It will create a lovely, crunchy layer on top of the cake.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, cinnamon, baking powder, and baking soda until smooth. This combination adds moisture and flavor to the cake.
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; this will help keep the cake light and fluffy.

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Don’t worry about getting it perfectly smooth; it will bake evenly.
Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the top of the batter. This adds a delicious crunch and makes it visually appealing.
Bake in your preheated oven until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with a few crumbs attached. This should take about 40 minutes.

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This waiting time allows the cake to set properly.

Notes

Buttermilk: To make your own buttermilk, stir together 1 c. milk + 1 Tbsp. lemon juice or white vinegar. Set aside until thickened and curdled, about 10 minutes.
Yield: This recipe makes a 9-inch by 13-inch coffee cake, enough for 12 generous slices (more or less depending on how you slice it).

Storage: Store leftover coffee cake at room temperature for up to 5 days. Store in an airtight container or wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.