Ultimate Sour Cream Coffee Cake

This Ultimate Sour Cream Coffee Cake is a delightful, moist, and tender cake with a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl and a crunchy streusel topping. It’s the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack with a cup of coffee. The addition of sour cream ensures a soft and fluffy texture, making every bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The sour cream creates a moist and tender crumb.
• A cinnamon-sugar swirl and streusel topping add warmth and crunch.
• Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up anytime.
• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
• Stores well, making it great for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Sour cream
• Ground cinnamon
• Chopped nuts (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan or bundt pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with sour cream.
6. In another small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts (if using) for the swirl.
7. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture, and then add the remaining batter.
8. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10-12 slices
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
• Total Time: 55-65 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Delight: Add walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Chocolate Twist: Swirl in chocolate chips for a sweet variation.
• Citrus Zing: Add orange or lemon zest for a fresh flavor boost.
• Glaze It Up: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the top for added sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

• Store the coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
• To freeze, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to restore freshness.

FAQs

How do I prevent my coffee cake from becoming dry?

Using sour cream helps retain moisture, but make sure not to overbake the cake. Keep an eye on the oven and check for doneness with a toothpick.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes! Greek yogurt is a great substitute and will provide a similar texture and taste.

Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This coffee cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it properly for the best results.

What size pan should I use?

A 9-inch square pan, 9×13-inch pan, or a bundt pan works well. Baking time may vary slightly depending on the pan size.

Can I add fruit to this recipe?

Yes! Blueberries or chopped apples can be mixed into the batter for a fruity twist.

Does this coffee cake contain coffee?

No, traditional coffee cake does not contain coffee. It’s meant to be enjoyed with coffee!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking as a one-to-one substitute.

How do I make a simple glaze for the top?

Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Drizzle over the cooled cake.

Why did my cake sink in the middle?

This can happen if the batter was overmixed, the oven door was opened too soon, or the cake was underbaked.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake it in a larger pan or two separate pans. Adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This Ultimate Sour Cream Coffee Cake is the perfect balance of sweet, moist, and crunchy. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat, it’s sure to impress. Try out different variations, store it properly, and enjoy it with your favorite coffee or tea!

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