Moist Coffee Cake Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a perfectly tender and flavorful treat, this Moist Coffee Cake Recipe is the one to try. With its luscious crumbly topping, tender crumb, and subtle hints of cinnamon, this cake feels like a warm hug in every bite. The balance of buttery richness and a slightly tangy sour cream base makes it stand out from ordinary coffee cakes, promising a slice of comfort that’s just begging to be shared with friends or savored alongside your morning brew.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this cake is a breeze because it calls for simple, everyday ingredients that each play an important role in perfecting the texture and flavor. From the flour that creates the fluffy structure to the melted butter that enriches the crumb topping, every item contributes to turning this cake into a crowd-pleaser.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of both crumb and cake, providing structure and that light, tender chew.
• Brown sugar: Packed inside the crumb topping, it adds moisture and deep caramel notes.
• Cinnamon: Infuses the crumb with warm, fragrant spice for that classic coffee cake appeal.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness perfectly.
• Unsalted butter: Used twice—melted for the crumb and softened for the cake batter—to create richness and moisture.
• Baking powder: The leavening agent that helps the cake rise to a light, airy perfection.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake evenly and helps create a tender texture.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure while contributing to cake’s moistness.
• Vanilla extract: Delivers a sweet, fragrant background note.
• Sour cream: The secret weapon for incredible moisture and slight tanginess that keeps the cake from feeling dry.
• Milk: Adds balance and helps achieve the perfect batter consistency.
• Powdered sugar, heavy cream or milk (optional): Combine to create a simple glaze for an extra touch of sweetness and shine.

How to Make Moist Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crumb Topping

Start by mixing 3 cups of all-purpose flour with 2 cups brown sugar, 2 tablespoons cinnamon, and 1 ½ teaspoons salt. Then, stir in 1 cup melted unsalted butter until the mixture is crumbly and spreadable—this topping will bake into a beautifully toasted, crunchy layer that contrasts delightfully with the tender cake beneath.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a separate bowl, sift together 3 cups flour, 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt. Using a mixer, cream 1 cup softened unsalted butter with 2 cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in 4 large eggs one at a time, followed by 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Alternate adding the dry ingredients with 1 cup sour cream and ½ cup milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture, and mix gently to keep the batter soft and moist.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

Grease your baking pan and spread half of the batter evenly inside. Generously sprinkle half of the crumb topping over the batter. Add the rest of the batter on top and finish with the remaining crumb mixture. This layering ensures bursts of crumbly cinnamon flavor with every slice.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely, so your layers settle perfectly without becoming dense.

Step 5: Optional Glaze Drizzle

Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with ½ teaspoon vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled cake to add a glossy finish and extra sweet touch that complements the cinnamon crumb beautifully.

How to Serve Moist Coffee Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling a little extra cinnamon or a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top can add texture and an inviting look. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate this treat into a dessert that’s as pretty as it is delicious.

Side Dishes

This coffee cake pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a hot cup of coffee or tea, which helps bring out the spices and sweetness. For a fuller brunch experience, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or creamy yogurt to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the cake into squares and serving it layered with mascarpone cheese and fresh berries for a refined dessert. Or pack it into small Mason jars for delightful single-serve presentations perfect for gift-giving or picnics.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Moist Coffee Cake Recipe fresh, store leftovers covered tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for 5 days. Make sure to wrap it well to preserve moisture and prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

This coffee cake freezes wonderfully. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep its delicious flavor and texture for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To enjoy your cake warm, thaw frozen slices overnight in the fridge, then warm them briefly in the microwave or oven. This brings back the fresh-from-the-oven softness and lets that crumb topping shine.

FAQs

Can I substitute the sour cream?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream to maintain the moistness and slight tang, but avoid using low-fat versions, as they might affect texture.

Is this cake suitable for freezing before baking?

It’s best to bake the cake first and freeze afterward for optimal texture. Freezing the batter or crumb topping may affect the final rise and crumb quality.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, replacing the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend works well. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or similar binding agents for structure.

What’s the best pan to bake this coffee cake in?

An 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) rectangular baking pan is ideal as it allows the layers and crumb topping to bake evenly and hold shape perfectly.

How do I prevent the crumb topping from sinking?

Using melted butter in the crumb mixture and layering it properly—sprinkling halfway through baking after the first half of the batter—helps the crumb stay on top instead of sinking.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely believe this Moist Coffee Cake Recipe is destined to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Its tender crumb, rich flavor, and comforting spice blend are a knockout combination that makes every bite feel like a little celebration. Whether it’s for breakfast, coffee break, or dessert, this cake never fails to delight and impress. So grab your ingredients, and treat yourself to a slice of simple, homemade happiness today!

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