If your idea of a perfect morning involves the aroma of buttery cinnamon, a tender crumb, and the kind of comfort that only comes from a treasured homemade recipe, then this Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake is about to become your new kitchen staple. With its irresistible layers of rich, sour cream cake and sweet, nutty streusel, this timeless treat brings a touch of bakery magic right into your home. Whether you serve it for brunch, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack, every bite feels like a warm invitation to linger at the table just a little longer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how a few simple, everyday ingredients can come together to make something truly spectacular. Each plays an essential role in creating that signature, melt-in-your-mouth experience that makes Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake unforgettable. Let’s walk through the basics that make this classic shine.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy yet tender structure for both the cake and streusel topping.
- Granulated sugar: Brings sweetness and helps create a light, fluffy cake texture.
- Unsalted butter: Adds rich flavor and tender crumb—don’t skip the room temperature step for the best results!
- Sour cream: The secret to an ultra-moist, slightly tangy cake that stays fresh longer.
- Large eggs: Help everything bind together and give the cake its signature lift.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the batter with cozy, caramel-like undertones.
- Baking powder and baking soda: These leaveners work together so your cake rises beautifully.
- Salt: Just a touch, to balance the sweetness.
- Light brown sugar: Essential for a caramel-y, crunchy streusel.
- Ground cinnamon: The heart and soul of that warm, classic flavor.
- Pecans or walnuts (optional): Add a touch of crunch and a hint of nuttiness to the streusel.
- Extra flour for the streusel: Helps the topping become perfectly crumbly.
- Melted butter for the streusel: Brings everything together for those irresistible buttery crumbs.
How to Make Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly from the very first minute. Lightly grease your favorite 9×13-inch baking pan (or use a 9-inch square for a thicker slice) with butter or nonstick spray so nothing sticks and cleanup stays easy.
Step 2: Mix Up the Streusel
In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, pecans or walnuts (if using), and the melted butter. Stir it up until it resembles big, crumbly clusters—these little nuggets are going to melt into the cake and provide that signature crunchy topping, so don’t overmix.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Grab a large mixing bowl and beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture looks pale and fluffy. This step is crucial for getting that light, bakery-style crumb in your Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake, so don’t rush—about 2-3 minutes does the trick.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Sour Cream
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract for that extra moisture and depth of flavor that sets this coffee cake apart from the rest.
Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. You’re looking for a thick, smooth batter—overmixing can make the cake tough, so stop as soon as no dry spots remain.
Step 6: Layer the Batter and Streusel
Now for the fun part: Pour half of your cake batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon streusel evenly over the batter layer—don’t be shy here, you want plenty in every bite. Gently spread the remaining batter on top, then finish with the last of your streusel.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. When a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, you know it’s done. Allow the cake to cool for a bit before digging in—though I won’t judge if you sneak a piece while it’s still warm and fragrant!
How to Serve Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake
Garnishes
For a bakery-worthy finish, dust your Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake with a little powdered sugar, or drizzle on a simple vanilla glaze made from milk, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract. A sprinkle of extra chopped nuts will add crunch and a lovely rustic touch.
Side Dishes
This cake shines alongside just about any breakfast or brunch offering. Try serving it with fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, or creamy scrambled eggs. A strong cup of coffee, of course, is never optional—these flavors are simply made for each other.
Creative Ways to Present
Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake works beautifully cut into generous squares for a bustling brunch spread, or try slicing it into thin fingers for an elegant afternoon tea tray. For something a bit special, layer bite-sized cubes in parfait glasses with whipped cream and berries for a simple but stunning dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Tightly wrap any remaining cake in plastic wrap, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This cake is remarkably moist, so it stays delightful and fresh-tasting even the next day—if it lasts that long!
Freezing
If you want to keep Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake on hand for future cravings, let it cool completely, then wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to indulge.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked magic, reheat slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, or warm the whole covered pan in a 300°F (150°C) oven until gently heated through. This revives the cake’s moisture and brings out the fragrance of the cinnamon in every bite.
FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a wonderful substitute for sour cream in this recipe. Just use the same amount and make sure it’s full-fat or at least 2% for that rich, tender crumb you expect in Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake.
Can I leave out the nuts in the streusel?
Of course. The nuts are totally optional—they add crunch and flavor, but if you’re nut-free or just prefer it without, your Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake will still be just as scrumptious.
How do I know when my coffee cake is done baking?
You’ll know your cake is ready when the top is golden and a toothpick or cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Keep an eye after the 35-minute mark, as oven times can vary.
Can I bake this in a bundt pan?
While this batter was developed for a flat pan, you can experiment with a well-greased bundt pan—just be aware that baking time may increase, and the streusel won’t layer the same way. Either way, your Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake should still taste fantastic!
Is there a way to add fruit to this cake?
Yes! Chopped apples or blueberries make a wonderful addition—just scatter a cup or so over the first layer of batter before topping with streusel. This gives your Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake a juicy, fruity twist that’s sure to please.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, there’s nothing more inviting than the old-fashioned charm and irresistible flavor of a Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake. Every time I bake it, I’m reminded how easy and rewarding comfort baking can be. So grab your apron, gather your loved ones, and treat yourselves to a slice of pure, cinnamon-swirled happiness—you won’t regret it!
Print
Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of a Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake. This moist and flavorful cake features a buttery, cinnamon-infused streusel topping and a tender crumb, making it a perfect treat for any time of the day.
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the streusel topping and filling:
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or a 9-inch square pan.
- Prepare the streusel: In a medium bowl, make the streusel by combining brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, nuts (if using), and melted butter. Mix until crumbly and set aside.
- Make the cake batter: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then mix in the sour cream and vanilla.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
- Layer the batter and streusel: Spread half the batter into the prepared pan, then sprinkle half of the streusel over it. Spread the remaining batter on top, followed by the rest of the streusel.
- Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- This cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
- It can be made a day ahead and stays moist when covered tightly.
- For extra indulgence, drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
