Coffee cake is one of those timeless treats that feels equally at home on a cozy breakfast table, a mid-afternoon coffee break, or as a sweet ending to a casual dinner. Despite its name, it doesn’t necessarily contain coffee, but it’s designed to pair perfectly with a hot cup of it. The appeal of coffee cake lies in its comforting, tender crumb and its generous layers of cinnamon, sugar, and sometimes nuts, which create a delightful balance of sweetness and warmth.
The origins of coffee cake can be traced back to European influences, particularly German and Scandinavian traditions, where spiced cakes and sweet breads were enjoyed alongside coffee. When the custom of coffee drinking spread across Europe and eventually to America, these baked goods evolved into what we know today as coffee cake. Over time, variations flourished, each culture adding its own twist with spices, fruits, or toppings.
A classic coffee cake is often crowned with a crumbly streusel topping made of butter, flour, sugar, and cinnamon. This topping not only adds texture but also delivers that iconic flavor many associate with coffee cake. Some recipes feature a ribbon of cinnamon sugar swirled through the middle, creating a marbled effect that looks as beautiful as it tastes. Others incorporate fruits like blueberries, apples, or peaches, offering bursts of flavor and a touch of tartness to contrast the sweetness. Nuts such as walnuts or pecans can also add crunch and depth.
One of the most charming aspects of coffee cake is its versatility. It isn’t overly sweet, so it works just as well for breakfast as it does for dessert. It can be enjoyed warm from the oven, when the aroma of cinnamon fills the room, or later in the day when it has cooled and the flavors have settled even more. Coffee cake also has a nostalgic quality, often reminding people of family gatherings, holidays, or simple moments when a slice was shared over conversation.
Whether served plain or dressed up with a glaze or drizzle of icing, coffee cake remains a comforting favorite. It’s a humble yet elegant treat that continues to bring warmth, familiarity, and joy to every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup butter melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 egg large egg beaten
- 1/2 cup brown sugar for topping
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and beaten egg.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the batter.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Can’t believe how easy this was! Even my kids helped out, and it turned out perfect! Definitely making it again.
Why does it call for baking powder? I thought coffee cake didn’t rise? 🤔 Anyway, mine came out fine, just curious.
I dunno, it was kinda dry for me. I followed the recipe exactly, but I guess I’m just not meant to bake.
Too sweet, more sugar than I like 🙂 but family loved it so I guess it’s ok.
This recipe is AMAZING! I made it for my family and they all loved it. The cinnamon on top is a game changer! 👌
Coffe cake? More like a sugar bomb! Not my cup of tea, but maybe you’ll like it.
I think coffee cake is supposed to be sweet! Sorry you didn’t like it, but it sounds delicious to me. ☕🍰
Yum! I made this last night and I already ate half the cake. LOL! Huge hit at the office!
Wow, really? Half the cake?? I think you might have a cake problem! LOL. But I guess it was good!
That’s awesome to hear! I need to try this recipe for my next potluck. Cake always gets the best reactions!
I thought it was bland. Maybe add some nuts or chocolate chips next time? Idk, just didn’t do it for me.
yum! I’m not a baker but was super easy to make, loved falling into the delicious cake!
I followed the recipe exactly but mine was soooo dry. What did I do wrong? 🤔
This coffee cake turned out amazing! So fluffy and delicious! Will definitely bake again.
So glad to hear you loved it! I can’t wait to try this recipe myself.
Meh, it was just okay. I’ve had better coffee cakes from the store.
I totally disagree! This coffee cake is really good and sooo easy to make. I love it!
Do you really need all that sugar? I’m trying to cut back on sweet stuff. This looks good tho.
cake is good but I think I added too much cinnamon. Next time I’ll cut it down!