Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe

If you are craving a warm, comforting treat that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and sweetness, this Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a tender, buttery cake layered with a crunchy, cinnamon-sugar streusel topping that adds just the right amount of texture and flavor to keep you coming back for more. Perfectly balancing moist crumb and sweet spice, this coffee cake is ideal for breakfast, afternoon snack, or whenever you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to a truly delightful homemade dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe, you only need simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work wonderfully together to create a cake with amazing flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role, from tenderizing the crumb to adding that signature cinnamon crunch that makes this coffee cake unforgettable.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender but structured cake that holds the streusel beautifully.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a light, fluffy crumb when creamed with butter.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides rich flavor and moisture essential for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature: Brings tang and tenderness for a moist, dense cake.
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet aromatic note.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Leavens the cake to lift it perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with sour cream to create a tender crumb and slight rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed: Provides caramel-like notes and chewiness in the streusel topping.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for streusel): Adds structure and crispiness to the crumbly topping.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the streusel ingredients creating a rich, buttery crunch.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Delivers the warm spicy flavor that makes this coffee cake a classic.
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds texture and nutty flavor in the streusel if you want a little extra crunch.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Sweet finishing touch to drizzle over the cooled cake.
• 2 tablespoons milk or cream: Thins out the glaze to a lovely drizzle consistency.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Complements the glaze with subtle warm notes.

How to Make Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and getting your baking pan ready with a light greasing and dusting of flour, or line it with parchment paper for an easy release. Preparing your pan well ensures your coffee cake comes out cleanly with perfectly defined edges.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This evenly distributes the leavening agents and salt throughout the flour for consistent texture and rise in your coffee cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—this usually takes around 3 to 4 minutes. This step traps air and creates a fluffy batter that’s the cornerstone of a tender crumb.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to maintain a smooth batter. Then blend in the vanilla extract for its lovely hint of floral sweetness that helps highlight the cinnamon flavor later.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream

Now, slowly combine the dry flour mixture into your wet batter, alternating with the sour cream. This method prevents overmixing while delivering moisture and a tender crumb thanks to the tart sour cream.

Step 6: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In another bowl, mix the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter and nuts if using until the mixture turns crumbly and holds together lightly. This streusel will give the coffee cake its signature crunchy, sweet topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan, then sprinkle half of the streusel mixture over it. Layer the remaining batter on top, followed by the last of the streusel. This layering creates pockets of cinnamon crunch in every bite.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma during baking will fill your kitchen with inviting cinnamon and buttery notes — a sign that your Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe is nearly ready!

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract to make a glaze, then drizzle it generously over the cake. This finishing touch adds sweetness and shine, making it even more irresistible.

How to Serve Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A light dusting of cinnamon sugar, a handful of extra chopped nuts, or a swirl of cream cheese frosting can elevate the presentation and flavor. These garnishes add a personal touch that transforms a simple coffee cake into something special.

Side Dishes

This coffee cake pairs wonderfully with freshly brewed coffee or a creamy latte, making breakfast or brunch feel like a cozy celebration. If you want something heartier alongside, serve it with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the coffee cake into squares and serve on a rustic wooden board for a casual feel, or plate it elegantly with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for a dessert-worthy presentation perfect for guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover coffee cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake moist and the streusel crumbly and fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked and cooled cake by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, storing it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving — it will taste like it’s freshly baked.

Reheating

Rewarm individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to refresh the cake’s softness and bring back that heavenly aroma.

FAQs

Can I use all butter instead of sour cream?

Sour cream is key for moisture and a tender crumb. While you can add butter, you may lose some of that signature moistness and slight tang that makes this coffee cake so special.

Is it okay to omit nuts from the streusel?

Absolutely! The nuts add crunch and flavor but are optional. You’ll still get a delicious, crumbly topping without them, perfect if you have allergies or preferences.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it is a 1-to-1 baking substitute for best results, but keep an eye on texture as it might be slightly different.

How long does this coffee cake keep fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature, this coffee cake will stay fresh for about 3 days. After that, it’s best to refrigerate or freeze to preserve flavor and texture.

What other spices can I add to the streusel?

Cinnamon is classic, but for a twist, you can add nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice to the streusel for an extra aromatic punch that complements the buttery cake beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about the Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe that makes it a timeless favorite to have in your baking repertoire. Its perfect balance of soft, moist cake and crunchy cinnamon topping makes every bite feel like a warm hug. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy sharing it with your favorite people while savoring those cozy, cinnamon-scented moments.

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