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The perfect balance of tender cake and buttery streusel creates an irresistible breakfast treat that fills the kitchen with warm cinnamon aroma. This classic coffee cake, with its hidden layer of cinnamon-sugar and generous crumb topping, proves that sometimes the simplest recipes bring the most joy.
After years of weekend baking, I've found that the secret to perfect coffee cake lies in the layering technique and careful mixing of the batter.
Essential Ingredients Selection
- Eggs: Room temperature for better incorporation
- Vegetable Oil: Creates moisture that lasts for days
- Brown Sugar: Adds caramel notes to topping
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides perfect structure
- Butter: Cold for ideal crumb texture
- Cinnamon: Use fresh, aromatic spice
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1:
- Create base: Whisk wet ingredients until smooth and well combined
- Step 2:
- Build structure: Gently incorporate dry ingredients, avoiding overmixing
- Step 3:
- Prepare topping: Work cold butter into sugar and flour mixture by hand
- Step 4:
- Layer carefully: Add half batter, streusel, remaining batter, final topping
- Step 5:
- Bake with patience: Watch for golden brown top and clean toothpick test
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My mother always said the key to perfect coffee cake is treating the batter gently - she was right about letting the ingredients shine through minimal handling.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Room temperature storage lasts up to 3 days
- Freeze individual slices up to 3 months
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil for freezing
- Thaw overnight in refrigerator for best texture
I've found that wrapping slices individually makes for perfect portions when unexpected guests arrive.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with fresh fruit for breakfast
- Serve with coffee or hot chocolate
- Add whipped cream for dessert
- Warm slightly before serving
The versatility of coffee cake makes it perfect for any time of day.
Variations to Try
- Add nuts to streusel topping
- Include apple or pear chunks
- Swap vanilla for almond extract
- Add orange zest to batter
Each variation builds on the classic while creating something new.
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This recipe has become my signature breakfast treat for weekend guests, never failing to impress with its perfect balance of textures and warming cinnamon flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why use cold butter for topping?
- Cold butter creates distinct crumbs that stay separate while baking rather than melting into the cake.
- → Can I make this ahead?
- Yes! Bakes up to 2 days ahead. Store covered at room temperature or freeze up to 3 months.
- → Why layer the topping?
- Adding some topping in the middle creates a delicious cinnamon swirl throughout the cake.
- → Can I use butter instead of oil?
- Oil keeps the cake moist longer. If using butter, melt and cool it first.
- → Can I halve the recipe?
- Yes, use an 8x8 pan and reduce baking time to 30-35 minutes.