Nothing brings back childhood memories like the smell of Grandma’s coffee cake baking in the oven. Also, this classic homemade coffee cake is moist, buttery, and topped with a delicious cinnamon-sugar crumble. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this nostalgic recipe will bring comfort with every bite.
So, let’s dive into this old-fashioned coffee cake recipe, complete with step-by-step instructions, storage tips, and pro baking secrets!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic & Nostalgic – Just like Grandma used to make!
- Moist & Tender – Perfectly soft with a buttery crumb.
- Easy to Make – No fancy ingredients or equipment needed.
- Perfect with Coffee – A great companion for your morning cup.
- Cinnamon Streusel Topping – Adds the best crunchy, sweet layer.
Ingredients for Grandma’s Coffee Cake
For the Cake:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream (adds moisture)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Streusel Topping:
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (for crunch)
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (for extra warmth)
- ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries (for a fruity twist)
Moreover, for a delicious and moist coffee cake with a perfect cinnamon streusel topping, check out this coffee cake recipe.
Necessary Tools for Making Coffee Cake
- Mixing bowls – One for dry ingredients and one for wet.
- Electric mixer or whisk – To cream butter and sugar.
- Measuring cups & spoons – For accuracy.
- 9x9-inch baking pan – Or a round cake pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For mixing.
- Cooling rack – Helps the cake cool evenly.
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Want a Healthier Version?
✔ Swap ½ cup whole wheat flour for extra fiber.
✔ Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Making It Dairy-Free?
✔ Furthermore, replace butter with coconut oil or dairy-free butter.
✔ Use almond milk yogurt instead of sour cream.
Like Extra Moist Cake?
✔ Moreover, add ¼ cup applesauce for a softer texture.
✔ Also, mix in ½ cup mashed banana for natural sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Grandma’s Coffee Cake
1: Preheat & Prepare
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, grease and flour a 9x9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2: Make the Streusel Topping
- Then, in a small bowl, combine ½ cup brown sugar, ½ cup flour, and 2 teaspoons cinnamon.
- Cut in ¼ cup cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until crumbly.
- Set aside for later.
3: Cream Butter & Sugar
- In a large bowl, beat ½ cup softened butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Then, add 2 eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- After that, stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
4: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Then, in a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt.
5: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures
- Later, gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with 1 cup sour cream.
- Stir just until combined—don’t overmix!
6: Layer the Cake & Streusel
- Pour half the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Then, sprinkle half of the cinnamon streusel over the batter.
- Later, add the remaining batter and smooth the top.
- After that, sprinkle the remaining streusel on top.
7: Bake & Cool
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Pro Tips for the Best Coffee Cake
- Use room temperature ingredients – Helps create a smooth batter.
- Additionally, don’t overmix – Keeps the cake light and fluffy.
- Use fresh cinnamon – For the best flavor.
- Moreover, chill the streusel topping – Helps create a crunchy texture.
- Moreover, let the cake cool slightly – The flavors develop as it rests.
Serving Suggestions
- With a hot cup of coffee – The perfect pairing!
- Topped with whipped cream – For extra indulgence.
- With a dusting of powdered sugar – A simple yet elegant touch.
- Warm with vanilla ice cream – Turns it into a dessert!
How to Store & Reheat Coffee Cake
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate – Keeps fresh for a week in an airtight container.
- Freeze – Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Also, microwave for 15-20 seconds to enjoy warm.
- Moreover, reheat in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Sugar | 18g |
FAQs
1. Can I make this coffee cake without sour cream?
Of course, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt, buttermilk, or whole milk.
2. Can I add fruit to this cake?
Absolutely! Try adding ½ cup chopped apples, blueberries, or raspberries.
3. Why is my coffee cake dry?
Overbaking or using too much flour can make it dry.
4. Can I make this cake in advance?
Of course, you can bake it a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature.
5. What can I use instead of brown sugar for the topping?
Use white sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for a similar taste.
Conclusion
To conclude, grandma’s coffee cake is the ultimate comfort treat—buttery, moist, and packed with cinnamon goodness. Whether you serve it fresh out of the oven or enjoy leftovers with a hot cup of coffee, it’s sure to bring warmth and nostalgia to your kitchen.
Moreover, for an adorable and fun treat, these Barbie cupcakes are perfect for any occasion!
So, grab your ingredients and bake a piece of history today! 🍰☕
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