Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Sour Cream Coffee Cake is a delightful dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. With its moist texture and the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, this cake is an excellent companion for your morning coffee or an afternoon snack. The crumbly streusel topping adds an extra layer of texture, making each bite irresistibly delicious. Whether you are baking for a family brunch, a bake sale, or just to enjoy at home, this recipe is sure to please everyone.

Why Make This Recipe

There are numerous reasons to make Sour Cream Coffee Cake. First and foremost, it is incredibly simple to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. The ingredients are readily available in most pantries, which means you can get started right away. The combination of sour cream and butter results in a cake that is both moist and rich, while the cinnamon offers a warm and inviting flavor. Plus, the recipe produces enough servings to share, perfect for gatherings or parties. Most importantly, it’s a classic recipe that brings back memories of cozy kitchens and smiles around the table.

How to Make Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Making Sour Cream Coffee Cake is straightforward and enjoyable. Below are the steps you need to follow, along with the ingredients required.

Ingredients:

• ¾ cup light brown sugar
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9×9 inch baking dish with cooking spray or grease it with butter.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of flour, the light brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter with a fork until coarse crumbs form. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the cake batter.

3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

4. In a mixing bowl, using a handheld electric mixer or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Reduce the mixer speed to low and add the eggs and vanilla extract. Alternately add the flour mixture and the sour cream in three intervals, mixing after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and beaters a few times to ensure everything is combined well.

5. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle half of the streusel mixture over the batter. Carefully spread the rest of the cake batter over the top, and then sprinkle with the remaining streusel.

6. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

How to Serve Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Sour Cream Coffee Cake can be served warm or at room temperature. It is delightful on its own, but you can also add a dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness and charm. To serve, simply cut the cake into squares and enjoy it with a cup of hot coffee or tea. It also pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert option.

How to Store Sour Cream Coffee Cake

To store your leftovers, let the cake cool completely at room temperature. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. You can also place it in an airtight container. It will stay good at room temperature for about three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can store the cake in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, slice and freeze the cake for up to three months. Just ensure it is well wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

Tips to Make Sour Cream Coffee Cake

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure to use eggs and butter at room temperature. This helps the ingredients mix better, producing a light and fluffy cake.

2. Measurement Accuracy: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid a dense cake. Scoop the flour with a spoon and level it off with a knife.

3. Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour. This can lead to a tougher texture instead of a tender crumb.

4. Topping Variations: Feel free to experiment with different toppings. Nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit can be excellent additions to the streusel.

Variations

Sour Cream Coffee Cake is versatile, so you can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:

• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel mixture for a crunchy texture.
• Fruity Delight: Incorporate fresh berries or sliced apples into the batter for a fruity twist.
• Chocolate Lovers: Mix in mini chocolate chips or cocoa powder to create a chocolate version of coffee cake.

FAQs

1. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a good substitute for sour cream in baking. It will provide similar moisture and tanginess.

2. Is it possible to make this coffee cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

3. Can I prepare this cake in advance?
Yes, you can make the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before baking.

4. How can I tell when my coffee cake is done baking?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Additionally, the edges will begin to pull away from the sides of the pan, and the top will be golden brown.

Sour Cream Coffee Cake is a beloved classic that brings people together. With its easy preparation and comforting flavors, it is bound to become a family favorite in no time. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish!