The Ultimate Guide to Baking the Perfect Homemade Coffee Cake

Few things rival the heartwarming comfort and irresistible aroma of a freshly baked homemade coffee cake. Imagine the fragrant cinnamon-spiked streusel filling your kitchen, building anticipation for that first warm, tender bite. Baking and enjoying coffee cake isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s a cherished ritual, a gesture of comfort, and a delightful way to celebrate everyday moments or special occasions. This classic treat, known for its moist crumb and rich, buttery topping, seamlessly bridges the gap between a comforting breakfast, an elegant brunch centerpiece, or a satisfying dessert. It’s a culinary masterpiece that promises smiles and a touch of nostalgic bliss with every slice.

For those eager to dive straight into the baking process, we’ve structured this comprehensive guide for effortless navigation. You’ll find a clear table of contents below, allowing you to quickly jump to the full recipe or specific baking tips you need. Our mission is to empower every home cook, from novice bakers taking their first steps to seasoned culinary enthusiasts, to confidently create an exquisite coffee cake. We believe in providing not just the ‘how-to’ but also the fundamental ‘why’ behind each ingredient and technique, transforming a simple recipe into a joyful, successful, and deeply satisfying kitchen experience.

Easy From Scratch Coffee Cake: A Timeless Classic

Our coffee cake recipe is a true ode to classic flavors and comforting textures, a staple often found gracing Sunday brunch tables, accompanying leisurely mid-morning coffee breaks, or bringing warmth to family gatherings. It strikes an exquisite balance between a supremely soft, tender cake crumb and the delightful crunch of a generously applied, cinnamon-infused streusel topping. More than just a simple dessert, it effortlessly transitions into a delightful breakfast treat or an anytime indulgence that consistently brings warmth and joy to any setting. This recipe isn’t merely about creating a baked good; it’s about crafting an experience – a moment of sweet indulgence that evokes cherished memories and creates new ones, making it a truly unforgettable homemade staple.

The true magic of this coffee cake lies not only in its exceptional taste but also in its surprising simplicity and accessibility. We utilize readily available pantry and fridge staples that you likely already have on hand: high-quality all-purpose flour, a blend of different sugars for nuanced sweetness, rich unsalted butter, fresh eggs, and tangy sour cream. The transformation of these humble ingredients into something extraordinary is a testament to the art and science of baking. The cake’s base is subtly sweetened, allowing the full-bodied richness and incredible moisture-providing qualities of the sour cream to truly shine. This key ingredient contributes to an unbelievably tender and velvety crumb that is both light and satisfying. In contrast, the streusel topping takes center stage for its intense sweetness and aromatic warmth, with the harmonious blend of brown sugar and a generous hand of cinnamon creating a complex, almost caramel-like flavor profile that crumbles beautifully over each and every slice, adding an essential textural dimension.

The journey of baking this cake is as intrinsically soothing and rewarding as savoring the final product itself. It begins with the rhythmic, methodical creaming of softened butter and sugars, a crucial step for incorporating air and building the foundation for a light, airy texture. This is carefully followed by the gentle folding in of dry ingredients, ensuring the batter remains tender and preventing over-development of gluten. The meditative layering of the smooth, luscious batter and the coarse, fragrant streusel builds a wonderful sense of anticipation, promising a delightful interplay of textures and flavors in every forthcoming bite. Finally, as the cake bakes to golden perfection, your entire kitchen will be enveloped in an intoxicating aroma of cinnamon and vanilla – a truly hands-off period where you can relax, sip your favorite coffee, and watch as the cake majestically rises, its topping transforming into a golden, irresistible, and perfectly crisp crust. This entire process, from initial preparation to the glorious emergence from the oven, is designed to be an enjoyable and therapeutic culinary task, turning baking into a moment of pure bliss and creative satisfaction.

By the time this delightful creation emerges from your oven, filling your home with its inviting scent, you’ll have achieved more than just a cake. You’ll possess a tangible testament to the simple yet profound joys of home baking, a symbol of cozy comfort that resonates with tradition and love. And best of all, you’ll have a delicious, irresistible treat perfect for sharing over a warm cup of coffee or tea, turning any ordinary moment into something truly special. This homemade coffee cake is an invitation to savor the moment, a slice of pure happiness, one crumbly, flavorful bite at a time. Embark on this delightful culinary adventure with us, and prepare to create a coffee cake that will be remembered and requested for years to come – a true staple in your baking repertoire.

How To Bake the Best Coffee Cake: Step-by-Step Guide

Crafting the perfect coffee cake involves a thoughtful selection of quality ingredients and a clear, sequential process that ensures every layer contributes to a harmonious whole. Each component, from the tender cake base to the aromatic cinnamon swirl and the irresistible streusel topping, plays a vital role in achieving that signature moist crumb and delectable flavor. Let’s explore the essential ingredients and then walk through the simple, yet precise, steps to bring this classic to life in your kitchen.

Key Ingredients for Your Homemade Coffee Cake:

For the Irresistible Cinnamon Filling:

• Light Brown Sugar: Beyond mere sweetness, the light brown sugar’s inherent molasses content introduces a deep, nuanced caramel-like flavor. More critically, it provides essential moisture, contributing significantly to the filling’s soft, almost gooey texture and rich taste, which beautifully contrasts with the cake’s crumb.
• All-Purpose Flour: A small, carefully measured amount of all-purpose flour is crucial here. Its purpose is to bind the cinnamon and sugar together, preventing the mixture from completely melting and disappearing into the cake batter during baking. Instead, it helps to create a distinct, delightful layer of cinnamon-infused sweetness that remains visible and palpable.
• Ground Cinnamon: This is the aromatic heart of the filling and indeed, the entire coffee cake. Ground cinnamon provides that characteristic warm, sweet, and subtly spicy aroma and flavor that is utterly synonymous with classic coffee cake. For the most vibrant taste, consider using freshly ground cinnamon or a high-quality variety, as its potency is key to the cake’s identity.

For the Perfect Buttery Streusel Topping:

• Unsalted Butter (Melted): Melted unsalted butter is the foundation of a good streusel. It generously coats the dry ingredients, which is vital for creating that beautiful, chunky, and crumbly texture that crisps up perfectly golden-brown during baking. Using unsalted butter allows for precise control over the overall saltiness, ensuring a balanced flavor.
• Brown Sugar and Granulated Sugar (Combined): The thoughtful combination of both brown and granulated sugars yields the best streusel results. Brown sugar, with its molasses, adds a delightful depth of flavor and a subtle chewiness, while granulated sugar contributes to the desired crispness and provides straightforward sweetness to the topping, creating a fantastic textural contrast.
• Ground Cinnamon: A generous addition of ground cinnamon in the streusel ensures the topping is intensely fragrant and richly flavored, perfectly complementing both the cinnamon filling and the tender cake itself. This reinforces the quintessential coffee cake experience.
• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the streusel, all-purpose flour provides the necessary structure. It works with the butter and sugars to form distinct, irregular crumbs rather than allowing the topping to melt into a flat, indistinct layer. This gives the streusel its signature appealing texture.

For the Incredibly Moist and Tender Cake Base:

• All-Purpose Flour: This flour forms the primary structural matrix of the cake. Accurate measurement is paramount to achieve the desired light and airy texture.
• Cornstarch: Here’s a secret ingredient for an exceptionally tender cake! Cornstarch, a fine starch, works to soften the proteins in the all-purpose flour. This crucial step results in a cake that boasts an incredibly delicate crumb and practically melts in your mouth, elevating the overall mouthfeel.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These two leavening agents are the unsung heroes responsible for the cake’s beautiful rise and airy, soft texture. Baking soda specifically reacts with the natural acidity of the sour cream, creating carbon dioxide bubbles that expand during baking, while baking powder provides additional, consistent lift throughout the process.
• Salt: A small but essential pinch of salt. It doesn’t just add flavor but is vital for balancing and enhancing all the sweet notes in the cake and streusel, preventing the cake from tasting bland or overly sweet. It sharpens other flavors.
• Unsalted Butter (Softened): Softened unsalted butter, thoroughly creamed with sugar, is critical for creating air pockets within the batter, which are essential for a light, rich cake. Butter also contributes significantly to the cake’s luxurious flavor and tender texture.
• Light Brown Sugar and Granulated Sugar (Combined): Similar to the streusel, the blend of sugars in the cake batter provides a balanced sweetness. Brown sugar contributes moisture and a subtle chew, while granulated sugar ensures a fine, even crumb.
• Eggs (Large): Large eggs serve multiple functions: they act as binders, emulsifiers, and provide essential fat and moisture to the cake. They contribute significantly to the cake’s overall structure, richness, and tender consistency. Always ensure they are at room temperature for optimal incorporation and batter consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: A foundational flavor enhancer, vanilla extract elegantly complements the cinnamon and adds a profound depth of aroma that makes the cake truly irresistible. Opt for pure vanilla extract for the most authentic and rich flavor.
• Sour Cream: This is a powerhouse ingredient for an incredibly moist coffee cake! Its high fat content and tangy acidity are instrumental in ensuring an exceptionally moist, rich, and tender crumb. The acidity also actively reacts with the baking soda to promote a superior, even rise, resulting in a beautifully textured cake. Full-fat sour cream will yield the best, most luxurious results.

Baking Instructions:

Once your ingredients are meticulously gathered and prepped, follow these detailed, step-by-step instructions to create your magnificent homemade coffee cake. Precision and patience are your best allies for a truly perfect result:

For the Aromatic Cinnamon Filling:

1. In a small, clean mixing bowl, meticulously combine the measured light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and ground cinnamon. Use a whisk to ensure these dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed and free of any lumps. This step is crucial for creating a uniform and powerfully flavored layer within the cake. Set this mixture aside, as it will be carefully layered into the cake later.

For the Delightful Streusel Topping:

1. In another small mixing bowl, precisely combine the melted unsalted butter, both brown and granulated sugars, a generous amount of ground cinnamon, and the all-purpose flour. Using a fork, gently mix these ingredients together until they are well combined and resemble coarse, distinct crumbs. It’s important to avoid overmixing at this stage; the goal is to achieve separate, delicious crumbs, not a pasty consistency. Set this prepared streusel mixture aside.

For the Moist and Tender Cake Batter:

1. Begin by accurately preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Simultaneously, prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, allowing a slight overhang on the sides. This overhang will serve as convenient handles to easily lift the finished cake out later. Lightly coat the parchment paper and any exposed areas of the dish with cooking spray to ensure no sticking. Set the prepared dish aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together all the dry ingredients for the cake: the measured all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures these leavening agents and flavorings are perfectly and evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is essential for a consistent rise and flavor. Set this bowl aside.
3. In a separate, even larger mixing bowl, utilize a hand mixer (or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment) to beat the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar together. Cream these ingredients until the mixture becomes visibly light in color and fluffy in texture, a process that typically takes 2-3 minutes. This critical step effectively incorporates air into the butter and sugar, which is fundamental for achieving a light and tender cake texture.
4. To the beautifully creamed butter and sugar mixture, add the large eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, gently mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream. Continue mixing until these ingredients are just combined. Don’t be alarmed if the mixture appears slightly curdled at this point; it’s a normal occurrence due to the different temperatures and textures of the ingredients.
5. Gradually add the reserved dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed with your mixer or, for better control, gently fold by hand with a spatula until the ingredients are just combined and no streaks of dry flour remain. It’s absolutely crucial not to overmix at this stage, as excessive mixing develops gluten, which can result in a dense, tough, and chewy cake. A few small lumps in the batter are perfectly acceptable and often indicate a perfectly mixed, not overmixed, batter. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl with your spatula as needed to ensure everything is thoroughly incorporated.

To Beautifully Assemble and Bake Your Coffee Cake:

1. Pour approximately half of the prepared cake batter into your greased and parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking dish. Use a spatula to gently spread the batter evenly across the bottom of the pan, ensuring a smooth and consistent base layer.
2. Evenly distribute all of the cinnamon filling mixture over the first layer of cake batter. Take care to ensure it covers the entire surface without clumping in one area, creating an even layer of spiced sweetness.
3. Carefully spoon the remaining cake batter over the cinnamon filling, gently spreading it out to completely cover the layer beneath. Work slowly and gently to avoid disturbing the cinnamon filling too much.
4. Finally, generously sprinkle the prepared streusel topping evenly over the entire surface of the cake batter. This creates that iconic, crunchy, and irresistible crumbly crust that is a hallmark of a classic coffee cake.
5. Place the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 50-55 minutes. Please note that baking time can vary slightly depending on the calibration of your specific oven. To accurately check for doneness, insert a long wooden skewer or a clean toothpick directly into the very center of the cake. It should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs clinging to it, but absolutely no wet batter. If there is wet batter, continue baking in short increments (3-5 minutes) until the test is successful.
6. Once perfectly baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the baking dish for at least 20 minutes before attempting to cut or serve. This essential cooling period allows the cake’s internal structure to stabilize and the streusel topping to fully set, preventing it from crumbling excessively when sliced. For the cleanest, most satisfying slices and optimal texture, it’s ideal to let it cool completely on a wire rack before attempting full slicing, though a warm, slightly gooey slice is undeniably a delightful indulgence!

Expert Tips for a Flawless Homemade Coffee Cake

Achieving coffee cake perfection involves more than just following a recipe; it’s about understanding the subtle nuances of baking and applying a few seasoned tricks. These expert tips will help elevate your homemade coffee cake from good to truly unforgettable, ensuring a consistently moist crumb, a robust streusel, and a delectable result every single time you bake.

• Do Not Overmix the Batter: This is arguably the most crucial tip for nearly any cake recipe. Overmixing the wet and dry ingredients develops the gluten in the flour, which leads to a tough, dense, and chewy cake rather than the desired light, tender, and moist texture. The best practice is to mix just until the last streaks of dry flour disappear. Don’t worry if there are a few small lumps remaining in the batter; these are perfectly fine and often indicate that you’ve successfully avoided overmixing.
• Always Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature (typically around 68-70°F or 20-21°C) is absolutely vital for creating a smooth, perfectly emulsified batter. Room temperature ingredients blend together more easily and uniformly, which in turn creates a more stable batter that is capable of trapping air more efficiently during the creaming process. This incorporation of air is what ultimately leads to a lighter, more tender, and more evenly textured cake. Cold ingredients, on the other hand, can cause the batter to curdle, resulting in a less cohesive mixture and potentially affecting the final texture of your coffee cake.
• Verify the Freshness of Leavening Agents (Baking Powder and Baking Soda): Baking powder and baking soda are the workhorses responsible for the cake’s beautiful rise and airy texture. However, they lose their leavening power over time, which can unfortunately lead to a flat, heavy, and dense cake. To avoid disappointment, always check the expiry dates on your containers. For a quick freshness test: to check baking powder, add a teaspoon to half a cup of hot water—it should fizz vigorously. For baking soda, add a quarter teaspoon to two tablespoons of vinegar—it should bubble up immediately. If there’s no reaction, it’s definitely time to replace them.
• Customize Your Spices for the Perfect Aroma and Flavor Profile: While cinnamon is an undeniable classic and the foundational spice for coffee cake, feel completely free to experiment with the spice blend to match your personal preferences and create a signature flavor. If you adore a bolder, warmer flavor, consider increasing the amount of cinnamon slightly beyond the recipe’s suggestion. For an added layer of complexity and depth, you might incorporate a tiny pinch of freshly grated nutmeg, a whisper of ground cloves, or even a dash of fragrant cardamom into both the cinnamon filling and the streusel topping. These thoughtful, small additions can dramatically enhance the cake’s aromatic complexity and overall taste.
• Choose the Right Baking Pan for Even Baking: The type of baking pan you choose can significantly impact how evenly and thoroughly your coffee cake bakes. For optimal results, we highly recommend using a light-colored metal pan, ideally one made from aluminum or aluminized steel (such as the 9×13 inch pan specified in our equipment list). These types of pans conduct heat more evenly and gently, promoting uniform baking throughout the cake and preventing the edges from becoming too dark, dry, or overcooked before the center has a chance to set. Dark-colored pans or traditional glass dishes tend to absorb more heat, which can lead to overbrowning or quicker cooking on the edges, potentially resulting in an unevenly baked cake.
• Master the Doneness Test to Avoid Dryness: To prevent either a dry, overbaked cake or a gooey, underbaked one, knowing how to properly check for doneness is absolutely key. Insert a long wooden skewer or a clean toothpick directly into the very center of the cake. The ideal result is for it to come out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it, but importantly, no wet batter. If the skewer comes out completely clean, your cake might be ever so slightly overbaked, though still likely delicious. If there’s wet batter visible on the skewer, simply return the cake to the oven and continue baking in short intervals (typically 3-5 minutes at a time) until the test yields the desired result.
• Allow for Proper Cooling Before Slicing: Patience truly is a virtue, especially when it comes to baking coffee cake! Allowing the cake to cool sufficiently in its pan for at least 20 minutes before you attempt to slice into it is crucial for maintaining its structure and texture. During this important cooling period, the cake’s internal structure continues to stabilize, and the magnificent crumb topping has ample time to set properly. This prevents it from crumbling excessively or falling apart when you cut those eager first slices. For the cleanest, most satisfying slices and the best overall texture, if time allows, letting the cake cool completely on a wire rack is highly recommended, though a warm, fresh slice with slightly melted streusel is undeniably a delightful indulgence!
• Get Creative with Add-Ins and Variations to Personalize Your Cake: Don’t hesitate to personalize your coffee cake and make it uniquely your own! For an extra layer of delightful texture and a rich, nutty flavor, consider folding in about ½ to 1 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds directly into the streusel topping. Alternatively, for a wonderful fruity twist, you might add dried cranberries, finely chopped apples, or even fresh blueberries (tossed lightly in flour to prevent sinking) to the cake batter. These creative additions can transform the classic recipe into a unique creation perfectly tailored to your taste preferences, adding new dimensions of flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Coffee Cake

Delicious Pairings: What to Serve With Homemade Coffee Cake

While a slice of homemade coffee cake is undeniably delightful and satisfying on its own, pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the entire experience to another level. Its wonderfully versatile nature allows it to complement a wide range of beverages and foods, making it suitable for almost any meal, snack time, or special occasion. Here are some exquisite suggestions to enhance your coffee cake enjoyment and create a memorable culinary moment:

• The Classic Duo: Coffee or Tea: As its name so clearly implies, coffee cake finds its absolute perfect partner in a steaming, freshly brewed cup of coffee. The robust, slightly bitter, and often bold notes of a good brew beautifully contrast and cut through the cake’s inherent sweetness and richness, creating a harmonious and balanced flavor profile. For tea enthusiasts, a strong, brisk black tea like Earl Grey or English Breakfast provides a similar invigorating counterpoint. Alternatively, a fragrant herbal or delicate green tea can offer a lighter, more refreshing pairing, which is perfect for a relaxed afternoon indulgence.
• Fresh Fruit or Vibrant Fruit Salad: To introduce a burst of invigorating freshness, a delightful touch of natural acidity, and a welcome lightness, serve your coffee cake alongside a generous portion of fresh fruit. Bright, juicy berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries) are always a fantastic choice, as their natural tartness perfectly complements the sweet and spiced notes of the cake. Sliced peaches, plums, or a vibrant mixed fruit salad can also provide a wonderfully refreshing contrast, brightening the overall flavor profile and making the entire meal feel lighter and more balanced.
• Creamy Yogurt or Cottage Cheese for a Heartier Option: For a more substantial and satisfying breakfast or brunch, consider pairing a slice of coffee cake with a bowl of plain Greek yogurt or creamy cottage cheese. The protein content and smooth, creamy texture of these dairy options offer a fantastic, wholesome balance to the sweet cake. For an extra touch of indulgence and flavor, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the yogurt and perhaps sprinkle some crunchy granola for added texture and nutrients. This thoughtful combination transforms the cake into a more wholesome and fulfilling meal.
• Hearty Breakfast/Brunch Proteins for a Savory Balance: If your coffee cake is destined to be part of a larger, more elaborate breakfast or brunch spread, incorporating savory protein elements is an excellent culinary strategy. Crispy strips of bacon, savory sausage patties, or fluffy scrambled eggs provide a wonderful salty, umami, and textural counterpoint to the sweet, spiced cake. This thoughtful pairing creates a well-rounded meal that expertly satisfies both sweet and savory cravings, making your brunch truly memorable and satisfying for all palates.
• Artisan Cheeses for an Unexpected Pairing: For an unexpected yet surprisingly sophisticated and delicious pairing, consider serving coffee cake with certain soft, creamy cheeses. Cream cheese, a beloved classic accompaniment to many sweet baked goods, works exceptionally well with coffee cake’s flavors. Alternatively, a mild, buttery brie can also create a surprisingly delightful contrast with the warm cinnamon and rich brown sugar notes of the cake, offering a gourmet touch that will impress your guests and awaken new taste sensations.
• Decadent Dessert Enhancements: Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: When transforming your coffee cake into an indulgent, show-stopping dessert, a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream or a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream is simply divine. The cold, creamy texture of the ice cream slowly melts into the warm, tender cake, creating an explosion of harmonious flavors and contrasting textures. Whipped cream, light and airy, adds a luxurious finish without ever overpowering the cake’s inherent deliciousness. For an extra flourish, a sprinkle of additional cinnamon or a drizzle of rich caramel sauce can elevate this dessert even further, making it an unforgettable sweet ending.

The Complete Homemade Coffee Cake Recipe

We sincerely hope you love this easy, incredibly flavorful, and comforting coffee cake recipe as much as we do! If you’ve enjoyed the delightful process of baking and the joy of tasting this classic treat, please consider showing your appreciation by giving it a five-star rating and leaving a thoughtful comment below. Your valuable feedback not only inspires us but also helps us share these wonderful, tried-and-true recipes with even more home cooks like you. And don’t forget to share your delicious creations on your favorite social media platforms—Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest—by tagging @sweetcsdesigns. We absolutely adore seeing what you make and celebrating your culinary successes!

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Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 vote)

Homemade Coffee Cake

By: Courtney O’Dell

Servings: 12 slices |
Prep Time: 15 minutes |
Cook Time: 50 minutes |
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Indulge in the perfect balance of sweet, crumbly goodness with our irresistible coffee cake recipe. Featuring a tender, moist crumb infused with warm spices, and topped with a rich, buttery streusel, this classic delight is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or paired with your afternoon cup of coffee. It’s not just a cake – it’s a cozy, comforting experience waiting to be shared!

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Equipment Needed:

• High-Quality Silicone Spatula
• Electric Hand Mixer (or Stand Mixer)
• 9×13 Inch Rectangular Baking Pan
• Mixing Bowls (small and large)
• Whisk
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Parchment Paper
• Cooking Spray

Ingredients:

Cinnamon Filling:

• 1 cup light brown sugar
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Streusel Topping:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ⅔ cup packed brown sugar
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 cup all-purpose flour

For the Moist Cake Base:

• 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup light brown sugar
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups sour cream (full-fat, room temperature)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Cinnamon Filling: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the 1 cup light brown sugar, ¼ cup all-purpose flour, and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon until fully combined and no lumps remain. Set this mixture aside.
2. Prepare Streusel Topping: In a separate small mixing bowl, combine the ½ cup melted unsalted butter, ⅔ cup packed brown sugar, ⅔ cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, and 1 cup all-purpose flour. Use a fork to mix these ingredients gently until coarse, distinct crumbs form. Avoid overmixing. Set aside.
3. Preheat Oven & Prep Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing an overhang on the longer sides. Lightly spray the parchment and exposed dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
4. Combine Dry Cake Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons cornstarch, 3 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. Set this bowl aside.
5. Combine Wet Cake Ingredients: In an even larger mixing bowl, using a hand mixer (or stand mixer with paddle attachment), beat the 1 ¼ cup softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup light brown sugar, and 1 ½ cups granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color, typically for 2-3 minutes. Beat in the 3 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is incorporated before adding the next. Finally, mix in the 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 1 ½ cups sour cream until just combined. The mixture may appear slightly curdled, which is normal.
6. Form Cake Batter: Gradually add the reserved dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed with your mixer or by hand with a spatula until the ingredients are just combined and no dry streaks of flour are visible. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake. A few small lumps are perfectly acceptable. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
7. Assemble the Coffee Cake: Pour approximately half of the prepared cake batter into your lined 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly across the bottom with a spatula. Evenly sprinkle all of the prepared cinnamon filling mixture over this first layer of cake batter. Carefully spoon and gently spread the remaining cake batter over the cinnamon filling, making sure to cover it completely without disturbing it too much. Finally, generously sprinkle the prepared streusel topping evenly over the entire surface of the cake batter.
8. Bake: Carefully place the baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for 50-55 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a wooden skewer or clean toothpick into the very center of the cake; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it, but no wet batter.
9. Cool: Once baked, remove the coffee cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the baking dish for at least 20 minutes before attempting to slice and serve. This crucial cooling period allows the cake’s internal structure to set and the streusel topping to stabilize, preventing it from crumbling when cut. For truly clean slices and optimal texture, it’s best to let it cool completely on a wire rack if time permits.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving):

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and provided for general guidance only. It should be used as an approximation.

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 795 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 117g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 135mg
• Sodium: 357mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 73g

Additional Information:

Course: Desserts, Breakfast, Brunch, Snack

Cuisine: American

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