Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel

There's nothing quite like a warm slice of Sour Cream Coffee Cake to start your day. This recipe brings back fond memories of my son, Jake, who would sneak into the kitchen before breakfast to snag a piece before anyone else could. It's a delightful homemade coffee cake that's perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Why You’ll Love It

  • It’s easy to make with simple ingredients.
  • The cinnamon streusel adds a delightful crunch.
  • Perfect for family gatherings or cozy mornings.
  • The sour cream keeps it moist and tender.

Pure Comfort

This Sour Cream Coffee Cake is pure comfort food. The rich, buttery flavor combined with the sweet cinnamon streusel makes it a treat you won’t forget.

What You Need

  • 1 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g) – You can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
  • 1/2 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick, 113 g) – Margarine works too if you need a dairy-free option.
  • 2 2 large eggs – Room temperature eggs mix better.
  • 1 1 cup sour cream (240 g) – Plain yogurt can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Use pure vanilla for the best flavor.
  • 2 2 cups all-purpose flour (240 g) – For a gluten-free option, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
  • 1 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (100 g)
  • 1/2 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, 60 g) – Walnuts or pecans work great.

Time to Cook

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 45 minutes | Total: 1 hour | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, you can make it a day in advance.

Steps to Make It

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. The oven should be nice and warm, ready to bake your delicious coffee cake.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s pale and airy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until fully combined. The batter should be smooth and creamy, making your kitchen smell delightful.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
  5. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts (if using) to create the streusel topping. The mixture should be crumbly and aromatic.
  6. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle half of the streusel mixture over the batter. Then, pour the remaining batter on top and finish with the rest of the streusel. It should look inviting and ready to bake.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and the aroma will fill your home.
  8. Once done, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast treat.

Make It Perfect

  • For an extra touch, drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cake.
  • If you want to add fruit, try folding in some blueberries or chopped apples into the batter.
  • Make sure to check the cake a few minutes before the timer goes off to avoid overbaking.

Mix It Up

  • Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
  • Swap out the nuts for dried fruit like cranberries or raisins.
  • For a lemony flavor, add lemon zest to the batter.

Perfect Partners

  • Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
  • Serve alongside fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.
  • Enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream for a special treat.

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FAQs

Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Just store it covered at room temperature.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this coffee cake?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Plain yogurt or buttermilk work well as substitutes.

Is this coffee cake good for brunch?

Yes! It’s a fantastic option for brunch gatherings with family and friends.

Conclusion

This Sour Cream Coffee Cake is a delightful addition to your breakfast table. With its moist texture and cinnamon streusel topping, it's sure to become a family favorite. So go ahead, whip up this homemade coffee cake and enjoy a slice with your loved ones!

slice of sour cream coffee cake with cinnamon streusel topping

Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel

A moist and tender sour cream coffee cake topped with a crunchy cinnamon streusel. This easy-to-make breakfast or brunch cake combines buttery flavor with a sweet, aromatic cinnamon topping, perfect for cozy mornings and family gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 minute
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 cup granulated sugar can substitute with brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened; margarine works for dairy-free
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 cup sour cream plain yogurt can substitute
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract use pure vanilla for best flavor
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour for gluten-free use 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts optional; walnuts or pecans

Equipment

  • Oven
  • 9×13 inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
  2. Cream together granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract until combined.
  4. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon in another bowl.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
  6. Combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts in a small bowl to make streusel topping.
  7. Pour half the batter into the pan; sprinkle half the streusel over it. Repeat layers with remaining batter and streusel.
  8. Bake for 40-45 minutes until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
  9. Cool cake in pan for 10 minutes before slicing and serving warm.

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