As I stood in my kitchen, the rich aroma of cinnamon and buttery goodness wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to childhood mornings filled with warmth and laughter. This Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping has become a cherished family favorite, and for good reason—it's both a quick and easy bake, and the perfect companion for a steaming cup of coffee. Packed with moist sour cream, this cake invites indulgence without the guilt, making it a delightful choice for brunch or an afternoon treat. Whether you're hosting friends or sneaking a slice for yourself, the crumbly topping adds a satisfying crunch that’s hard to resist. Ready to create some mouthwatering memories in your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe!
Why is this cake a must-try?
Moist and Tender: The addition of sour cream ensures this cake is wonderfully moist, making each bite a delight.
Irresistible Crumb Topping: The crumbly texture of the topping adds a delightful contrast to the soft cake, elevating your dessert experience.
Quick Prep: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious cake effortlessly, perfect for those busy weekends.
Versatile Delight: Ideal for brunch or an afternoon snack, this cake pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
Customizable Options: Easily adjust the recipe by using gluten-free flour or a flax egg for a dairy-free version without sacrificing taste.
Convenient Storage: This cake keeps well, so you can enjoy it fresh or save slices for later—a great option for busy families!
Sour Cream Coffee Cake Ingredients
Dive into the delightful world of baking with these essential ingredients that make your Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping such a treasure.
For the Cake
- Sour Cream or plain yogurt – Adds incredible moisture and depth of flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour – Provides structure; gluten-free flour is a fantastic substitute for those with dietary restrictions.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and enhances the flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Adds a hint of caramel flavor for richness.
- Butter (cold) – Ensures a tender crumb; cold butter helps create a flaky texture.
- Large Eggs or a flax egg – Binds the ingredients together; flax eggs are great for a vegan alternative.
- Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise, giving it a light texture.
- Baking Soda – Works in conjunction with the sour cream for the perfect lift.
- Cinnamon – Infuses warm, comforting flavors throughout the cake.
- Milk or almond milk – Adds creaminess; almond milk is a wonderful dairy-free option.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances all the other flavors with its deep aroma.
For the Crumb Topping
- All-Purpose Flour – Creates the base of the crispy topping.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and adds crunch to the topping.
- Brown Sugar – Enhances the topping with its rich, caramel undertones.
- Cinnamon – Infuses a delightful warmth akin to your favorite bakery treats.
- Butter (cold) – The key to achieving that perfect crumbly texture.
Optional Icing
- Powdered Sugar – Adds a sweet finishing touch, perfect for those who love a little extra indulgence.
Get ready to whisk these lovely ingredients together and create a dessert that will resonate with your family and friends for years to come!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, take an 8-inch square pan and grease it thoroughly, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This will set the stage for your indulgent Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping!
Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with ½ cup each of granulated sugar and brown sugar, along with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Cut in ½ cup of cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Once ready, refrigerate this topping while you mix the cake batter to keep it nice and crumbly.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of sour cream, 2 large eggs, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps, as this mixture is what will give your Sour Cream Coffee Cake its wonderful moisture and flavor.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and an additional teaspoon of cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the batter to remain light and fluffy.
Step 5: Layer the Batter
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula. Next, sprinkle half of the chilled crumb topping over the batter. This layering adds a delightful texture, enhancing your Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping with a pleasing crunch.
Step 6: Finish with Remaining Batter
Carefully dollop the remaining batter over the first layer and gently spread it to cover the crumbs below. It’s okay if it doesn't look perfect—this is a homemade treat! Then, generously sprinkle the rest of the crumb topping over the top, ensuring a delightful crunch in every bite.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Place your cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Enjoy the scent of cinnamon and buttery goodness filling your home as it bakes!
Step 8: Cool and Icing (Optional)
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. If you wish to add a touch of sweetness, prepare an optional icing by whisking 1 cup of powdered sugar with a splash of milk, then drizzle it over the cooled cake before slicing into delicious squares.
What to Serve with Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping
When you're ready to enjoy this delightful coffee cake, consider these perfect pairings that take your experience to the next level.
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Fresh Berries: Bursting with flavor, fresh strawberries or raspberries add a juicy brightness that complements the moist cake beautifully.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of light and airy whipped cream not only looks inviting but also enhances the richness of the coffee cake.
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Crispy Bacon: The savory crunch of crispy bacon creates a delightful contrast, balancing the sweetness of the cake with its salty flavor.
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Hot Coffee: The warm notes of your favorite brew are a classic match, bringing out the cake's comforting cinnamon and vanilla tones.
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Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or mint tea can elevate the coffee cake experience, making it feel like a cozy afternoon escape.
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Cream Cheese Icing: Drizzling a sweet and tangy cream cheese icing can add another layer of indulgence for those with a sweet tooth.
A gathering with family or friends becomes even more special when you complement your Sour Cream Coffee Cake with these delicious pairings!
Sour Cream Coffee Cake Variations
Feel free to embrace your creativity and make this cake uniquely yours with delightful twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a cake everyone can enjoy. Achieving that moist goodness is still easy!
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Dairy-Free: Swap sour cream for coconut yogurt and use almond milk to cater to dairy-sensitive guests without sacrificing flavor. Your cake will be delectably rich.
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Flavor Boost: Enhance the cake with a tablespoon of lemon zest for a bright, citrusy twist that livens up the crumb. It’s a refreshing surprise with every bite!
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Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping for a delightful texture and earthy flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
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Spiced Up: Increase the cinnamon to 1.5 teaspoons or add a dash of nutmeg for a warming aroma and extra depth. Warm spices make every bite feel like a hug!
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Chocolate Lovers: Fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter for a chocolatey indulgence that pairs beautifully with the sour cream. It’s a decadent way to treat yourself!
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Fruity Addition: Mix in 1 cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity explosion in every slice. The tartness of the berries contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
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Kick of Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a tablespoon of finely chopped jalapeño to the batter for a spicy twist that will surprise and delight your taste buds. It’s a fun and bold departure from the classic!
Tips for the Best Sour Cream Coffee Cake
Use Cold Butter: Make sure your butter is cold when preparing the crumb topping to achieve the desired crumbly texture.
Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet to avoid developing gluten, which can lead to a tough cake.
Proper Layering: Layer the batter and crumb topping in the pan as instructed; this ensures you get that delightful crunch in every slice of your Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping.
Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before adding icing, as this prevents the icing from melting and becoming a puddle.
Storage Tips: Keep leftover cake covered at room temperature to maintain its moisture, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the crumb topping a few days in advance—just keep it chilled until you're ready to bake!
Make Ahead Options
These Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the crumb topping up to 3 days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and crumbly. Additionally, you can mix the dry and wet ingredients separately up to 24 hours beforehand, keeping them in the fridge until you're ready to bake. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry mixtures, layer the batter, and top with the crumb mixture before popping it in the oven. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade coffee cake with minimal effort—perfect for a last-minute brunch or coffee break!
Storage Tips for Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping
Room Temperature: Store your Sour Cream Coffee Cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Fridge: Keep the cake in the refrigerator for up to 1 week if you prefer a cooler treat; wrap it tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Slice the cake and freeze individual portions for up to 3 months, ensuring each piece is wrapped airtight to maintain quality.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, allow frozen slices to thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping Recipe FAQs
What type of sour cream is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Full-fat sour cream works wonders in this recipe, providing optimal moisture and rich flavor. However, you can also use plain yogurt if you prefer a lighter alternative; just ensure it's not flavored.
How should I store leftover Sour Cream Coffee Cake?
For the best freshness, cover your Sour Cream Coffee Cake and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer it a bit cooler, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just remember to wrap it tightly to keep it moist!
Can I freeze Sour Cream Coffee Cake?
Yes, you can freeze it! Slice the cake into portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This way, your coffee cake can be enjoyed for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
What should I do if my cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. I recommend stirring the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients just until combined. Remember, a few lumps are perfectly fine! Also, check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can affect rising.
Are there any dietary considerations for this cake?
Definitely! If you'd like to make a dairy-free version, you can substitute sour cream with a plant-based yogurt and use almond milk. For gluten-free options, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. It's always a joy to bake with everyone included!
Can I make the crumb topping in advance?
Very! You can prepare the crumb topping up to 3 days ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. This way, when you're ready to bake, all you need to do is combine the wet and dry ingredients for the cake batter. This makes it a breeze to whip up on a busy day!
Indulgent Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup each of granulated sugar and brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Cut in ½ cup of cold butter until crumbly, then refrigerate.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of sour cream, 2 eggs, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Gradually combine with wet ingredients.
- Pour half the batter into the pan, smooth it out, and sprinkle half of the crumb topping over it.
- Dollop the remaining batter over the crumb layer and sprinkle the rest of the topping on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan.
- If desired, prepare icing by whisking powdered sugar with a splash of milk, and drizzle it over the cooled cake.
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