There’s something magical about a freshly baked coffee cake – the warm aroma of cinnamon, the buttery crumbs, and the soft, moist texture that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee. Whether it’s for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a dessert for entertaining guests, this classic coffee cake recipe is a crowd-pleaser. With its rich sour cream base and nutty cinnamon topping, it strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and spice. Best of all, it’s simple to make and ready to enjoy in just over an hour.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
For the Cake Base:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Cinnamon-Walnut Topping:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square or round baking dish, or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal. - Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside. - Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. This step helps incorporate air, making the cake tender. - Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor. - Add the Sour Cream and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and sour cream to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently after each addition until the batter is smooth and fully combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense. - Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the chopped walnuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This will create the flavorful, crunchy topping for the cake. - Assemble the Cake:
Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-walnut topping over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top and smooth it out, then sprinkle the rest of the topping evenly over the surface. - Bake the Cake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp. - Cool and Serve:
Allow the coffee cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely or serve it warm. Slice into squares or wedges and enjoy with your favorite coffee or tea.
Serving Suggestions:
This coffee cake is versatile and delicious on its own, but you can enhance it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of vanilla glaze. It’s also perfect for sharing at brunches, holiday gatherings, or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Baking this homemade coffee cake is not just about creating a delicious treat – it’s about bringing warmth and comfort to your kitchen and loved ones. The combination of buttery cake and spiced walnut topping is irresistible, and the recipe’s simplicity makes it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Whether it’s a special occasion or a regular weekday morning, this coffee cake is sure to delight everyone who tries it. So, preheat your oven and get ready to fill your home with the inviting aroma of cinnamon and baked goodness!