Are you ready to indulge in a warm, sweet treat that brightens your day? My Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake is a simple delight that combines rich flavors and fluffy texture. With just a few ingredients, you can create a cake that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. Follow me through this easy recipe packed with tips, tricks, and delightful variations to make it your own! Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon additional cinnamon (for topping)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
You need simple ingredients to make this cake. Most are things you may already have. Flour gives the cake body. Granulated sugar adds sweetness. Baking powder helps it rise. Salt enhances the flavors. Ground cinnamon is key for that warm taste. Softened butter makes the cake moist. Eggs bind everything together. Vanilla extract adds a nice aroma. Milk keeps the cake tender. Brown sugar brings a hint of caramel. The topping mix of cinnamon and nuts adds a lovely crunch.
Optional Ingredients and Add-ons
– Suggestions for flavored extracts: Almond or maple extract can add a new twist.
– Types of nuts to use: Pecans give a rich taste, while walnuts add a nice bite.
– Alternative sweeteners: Honey or agave can replace granulated sugar if desired.
Feel free to play with these options! Adding different extracts or nuts can change the flavor. Using alternative sweeteners can also make it a bit healthier. Choose what you love and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will help the cake bake evenly.
2. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or a square baking dish to prevent sticking.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
4. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light.
5. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each. Then add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
6. Gradually mix the dry ingredients with the wet ones, adding 1 cup of milk. Stir until just combined.
Cake Assembly
1. Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan. Smooth it out gently.
2. In a small bowl, mix:
– 1 tablespoon additional cinnamon
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (if using)
– A little of the remaining batter (about 1/4 cup)
This will create a crumbly topping.
3. Sprinkle the cinnamon topping evenly over the first layer of batter.
4. Pour the rest of the cake batter over the topping, smoothing the surface.
Baking Method
1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes.
2. Check doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your cake is done.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
This simple process makes a moist, delightful coffee cake. Enjoy the sweet, warm aroma filling your kitchen!
Tips & Tricks
Baking Techniques
To achieve a light and fluffy texture in your cinnamon sugar coffee cake, start by creaming the butter and brown sugar well. This process adds air into the mix, making it light. Use room-temperature butter for best results. It blends easily and helps create that fluffy cake.
Ingredient temperature is very important. Eggs and milk should also be at room temperature. Cold ingredients can make the batter dense. For a better rise, take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you bake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this coffee cake warm for the best flavor. Slice it into squares or wedges. A dusting of powdered sugar on top makes it look fancy. You can even add a scoop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
Pair your coffee cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The flavors blend well together. You might also enjoy it with a glass of milk or a sweet iced latte.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overmixing the batter. Mix until just combined, then stop. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
Another mistake is not measuring ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision. Too much flour can dry out your cake. Always level off the measuring cup for the best results.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can easily make this cake your own. Try adding chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Dried fruit, like raisins or cranberries, adds a nice chew and flavor. You can also experiment with spices. Swap cinnamon for nutmeg or cardamom. Each spice brings a unique taste to the cake.
Dietary Modifications
If you need a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend. Many brands work well in baking. If you want a dairy-free cake, substitute butter with coconut oil. Almond or oat milk can replace regular milk. Both options keep the cake moist and tasty.
Different Size or Style Cakes
You can make mini coffee cakes or muffins for easy serving. Use a muffin tin and adjust the baking time to about 20 minutes. For a bundt cake, pour the batter into the pan and bake it for 40-45 minutes. Bundt cakes look beautiful and are fun to share.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your cinnamon sugar coffee cake fresh, store it at room temperature. Use an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This method helps keep the moisture in. If you want to refrigerate it, place the cake in a container. It can last up to a week in the fridge. However, refrigeration may change its texture.
Long-Term Storage
If you want to enjoy your cake later, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can stay fresh for up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat it, thaw the cake overnight in the fridge. For reheating, warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Shelf Life Expectations
Under room temperature, your cake lasts about 3-4 days. In the fridge, it can stay good for a week. If frozen, it can last up to three months. Keep an eye on any signs of spoilage before eating. Enjoy your cake fresh for the best taste!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use self-rising flour instead?
Yes, you can use self-rising flour. Just skip the baking powder and salt. This option will make your cake rise well, but the taste may change slightly.
How do I know when my coffee cake is done baking?
Your cake is done when a toothpick comes out clean from the center. The edges may pull away from the pan a bit, too. Keep an eye on it after 30 minutes.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead. Bake the cake and store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for a few days at room temperature.
Troubleshooting
What to do if the cake is too dense?
If your cake is too dense, try mixing less next time. Overmixing can lead to a heavy cake. Also, check if your baking powder is fresh.
Fixing dry or crumbly coffee cake
If your coffee cake is dry, it may have baked too long. You can add a little milk to the batter next time. A moist cake is always better.
Serving and Pairing Queries
What beverages go well with cinnamon sugar coffee cake?
Coffee is the classic choice. Tea or warm milk also pair nicely with the sweet flavors. You can even try some spiced chai for a fun twist.
How to modify serving sizes for larger gatherings?
For larger gatherings, simply double the recipe. Use a bigger pan and adjust baking time. Cut into larger pieces if needed, so everyone gets a slice.
This blog post covered everything you need to bake a delicious coffee cake. We listed essential ingredients, optional add-ons, and detailed step-by-step instructions. You learned important tips to avoid common mistakes and explore tasty variations. I hope this guide helps you create a perfect coffee cake that delights everyone. Baking is fun, so enjoy the process and share your creation with loved ones. Remember, practice makes perfect!
