Coffee Cake Recipe (Soft, Buttery & Perfect with Coffee)

Coffee cake is a soft, buttery cake topped with a sweet cinnamon crumble.

Despite the name, it usually doesn’t contain coffee. It’s called coffee cake because it’s meant to be enjoyed with a warm cup on the side.

This recipe gives you a tender crumb, rich flavor, and a thick, golden streusel that melts into every bite. It’s simple to make and uses basic pantry ingredients. No complicated steps. Just mix, layer, and bake.

Serve it for breakfast, bring it to brunch, or slice a piece for an afternoon break. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat.

What Is Coffee Cake?

Coffee cake has roots in European baking traditions, especially from Germany and Scandinavia, where lightly sweet yeast cakes were served alongside coffee during social gatherings.

As these recipes made their way to the United States in the 1800s, they evolved into the tender, crumb-topped version many families know today.

Traditional American-style coffee cake is usually a single-layer cake with a soft, moist crumb and a thick cinnamon streusel on top, sometimes with a ribbon of cinnamon sugar running through the center.

It’s not overly sweet, which makes it perfect to pair with a hot drink rather than serve as a rich dessert.

Unlike frosted birthday cakes or celebration cakes, coffee cake skips heavy icing and focuses on texture and balance instead.

The crumb topping adds a slight crunch, while the cake itself stays buttery and light.

That contrast is what makes it special. It’s simple, comforting, and designed to be sliced and shared without fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make

This recipe is designed to be simple from start to finish. The steps are clear and straightforward, so you won’t feel lost at any point.

You mix the dry ingredients, cream the butter and sugar, combine everything, then layer and bake. That’s it. Even if you don’t bake often, you can follow along with confidence.

The method is forgiving, and small mistakes won’t ruin the final result.

No Special Equipment Needed

You don’t need a stand mixer or fancy tools to make this cake. A couple of mixing bowls, a whisk or hand mixer, a spatula, and a baking pan will do the job.

This keeps the process stress-free and accessible. If you can stir and spread batter into a pan, you can make this recipe.

Simple tools mean less cleanup and more time to enjoy your cake.

Soft, Moist Texture

The cake has a tender crumb that stays soft for days. Ingredients like butter and sour cream add richness and moisture without making the cake heavy.

Mixing just until combined helps keep the texture light. When baked properly, each slice is fluffy yet sturdy enough to hold its shape.

You get a cake that feels comforting and satisfying in every bite.

Perfect Cinnamon Streusel Topping

The streusel is what makes coffee cake truly special. A mix of brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, and butter creates a crumbly topping that turns golden in the oven.

It adds a gentle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake underneath.

Some of the topping melts slightly into the batter as it bakes, creating pockets of sweet cinnamon flavor throughout. Every slice gets that signature crumb layer on top.

Great for Make-Ahead and Freezing

This cake holds up well, which makes it perfect for planning ahead. You can bake it the night before a brunch or gathering, and it will still taste fresh the next day.

It also freezes beautifully. Simply wrap it tightly, store it in the freezer, and thaw it at room temperature when needed.

That means you can always have a homemade treat ready without starting from scratch each time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A. For the Cake Batter

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup (240g) sour cream (or full-fat Greek yogurt)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

B. For the Cinnamon Streusel Topping

• ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar, packed
• 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ¾ cup (95g) all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup (75g) unsalted butter, melted or very soft

C. Optional Add-Ins

• ½ cup (60g) chopped pecans or walnuts – stir into the streusel for added crunch
• Cream cheese layer:
  • 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Simple glaze drizzle:
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 1–2 tablespoons milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Kitchen Tools Needed

• 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan – Either size works well. An 8×8 pan will give you a slightly thicker cake, while a 9×9 pan creates a slightly thinner bake with a bit more golden edge. Line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy removal.
• Mixing bowls – Use one bowl for dry ingredients and another for wet ingredients. This keeps the batter smooth and prevents overmixing once everything is combined.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer – Helpful for creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. If you don’t have one, a sturdy whisk and a little extra effort will still get the job done.
• Spatula – Perfect for scraping down the sides of the bowl and spreading the batter evenly in the pan. This ensures even baking.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measuring keeps the texture soft and balanced. Level off dry ingredients and measure liquids carefully for the best results.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake starts baking at the right temperature from the moment it goes in.

Grease your 8×8 or 9×9-inch pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. A properly preheated oven helps the cake rise evenly and bake through without drying out.

Step 2: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a medium bowl, mix the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Add the softened or melted butter and stir until crumbly.

The mixture should hold together when pressed but still break apart into chunks. Set it aside. Making the streusel first keeps it ready to layer without rushing.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking evenly distributes the leavening agents, which helps the cake rise properly.

This step prevents dense spots in the finished cake.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes with a mixer.

Creaming adds air into the batter, which gives the cake a soft texture. Don’t rush this step. It makes a noticeable difference.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps the batter stay smooth and stable.

Stir in the vanilla extract. The batter should look creamy and slightly thick at this stage.

Step 6: Mix in Sour Cream

Add the sour cream and mix until fully combined. Sour cream adds moisture and richness without making the cake heavy.

It also helps create that tender crumb coffee cake is known for. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed or fold gently with a spatula until just combined.

Stop mixing as soon as you no longer see streaks of flour. Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of soft.

Step 8: Layer Batter and Streusel

Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle a generous layer of streusel over the top.

Add the remaining batter and gently spread it out without disturbing the bottom layer. Finish with the remaining streusel, making sure it covers the surface evenly.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in the center of the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

The top should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.

Step 10: Cool and Slice

Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 20–30 minutes. This allows it to set and makes slicing easier.

Once slightly cooled, lift it out if using parchment paper, slice into squares, and serve. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Tips for the Best Coffee Cake

Don’t Overmix the Batter

Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix only until the flour disappears. Overmixing develops gluten, which can make the cake dense and slightly tough instead of soft and tender.

Use low speed on your mixer or gently fold with a spatula. If the batter looks smooth and evenly combined, stop there. A light hand makes a lighter cake.

Use Room-Temperature Ingredients

Room-temperature butter creams more easily with sugar, which helps create a fluffy base. Eggs mix in more smoothly and help the batter stay stable.

Sour cream at room temperature blends evenly without creating lumps.

If you forget to take ingredients out early, place eggs in warm water for a few minutes and cut butter into small pieces to soften faster.

Small adjustments like this improve texture in a big way.

How to Get a Crumbly Streusel

For a proper streusel, the butter should be melted or very soft, not cold and hard. Mix just until crumbs form. If it turns into a paste, add a small spoonful of flour.

If it feels too dry, add a tiny bit more melted butter. The goal is a mixture that clumps when pressed but breaks apart easily.

This creates that golden, slightly crisp topping that contrasts perfectly with the soft cake underneath.

How to Test for Doneness

Start checking the cake around the 35-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center, avoiding large pockets of streusel. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.

If you see wet batter, give it a few more minutes and check again. The top should look golden and feel set when gently pressed.

Letting the cake cool properly also helps it finish setting without becoming dry.

Variations to Try

Blueberry Coffee Cake

For a fresh twist, gently fold 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter before layering. If using frozen berries, do not thaw them, as this prevents excess moisture and streaking.

Toss the blueberries lightly in flour first to help them stay evenly distributed while baking.

The berries add natural sweetness and a soft burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon streusel. This version works especially well for spring and summer gatherings.

Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake

Peel and dice 1 to 1½ cups of apples into small cubes.

Toss them with a teaspoon of cinnamon and a spoonful of sugar before folding them into the batter or layering them between the batter and streusel.

Choose firm apples so they hold their shape while baking.

The apples soften in the oven and create pockets of warm, spiced flavor throughout the cake. This variation feels cozy and is perfect for cooler months.

Cream Cheese Swirl Coffee Cake

In a small bowl, beat 4 ounces of softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 egg yolk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla until smooth.

Spread half the cake batter into the pan, add the cream cheese mixture in an even layer, then top with the remaining batter and streusel.

The cream cheese adds a rich, slightly tangy layer that balances the sweetness. It also makes the cake feel more indulgent without being heavy.

Pumpkin Coffee Cake (Seasonal Option)

Replace the sour cream with 1 cup of pumpkin purée and add 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice to the dry ingredients.

Pumpkin adds moisture and a warm, earthy flavor that blends perfectly with cinnamon streusel. The texture stays soft, and the color turns a beautiful golden orange.

This version is ideal for fall baking and pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee on a cool day.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

To store at room temperature, let the coffee cake cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay soft and fresh for up to 3 days on the counter.

Keep it in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight to prevent it from drying out. If your kitchen runs warm, refrigeration is a better option.

To refrigerate, wrap the cake well or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing fridge odors and drying out. It will keep for up to 5 days.

Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes or warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds to bring back that soft texture.

For longer storage, freeze the cake once fully cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then add a layer of foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag.

You can freeze the whole cake or individual slices for up to 3 months.

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours, then warm gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave slices briefly until soft and warm.

Serving Suggestions

Coffee cake is best enjoyed with a warm drink, so pair it with espresso if you like a bold contrast, cappuccino if you prefer something creamy, or classic drip coffee for a smooth and balanced match.

The cinnamon streusel complements the deep notes of coffee without overpowering them, making each sip and bite work together.

If you want to add a little extra sweetness, whisk together powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and a touch of vanilla to create a simple glaze, then drizzle it lightly over the cooled cake.

Keep it thin so it enhances the flavor without covering the crumb topping. You can serve the cake slightly warm for a softer texture and stronger aroma, or at room temperature for clean, neat slices.

If reheating, warm individual slices briefly rather than the whole cake to keep it moist. However you serve it, slice it evenly, plate it simply, and let the flavor speak for itself.

FAQs

Does coffee cake have coffee in it?

No. Traditional coffee cake does not contain coffee. It’s meant to be served with coffee.

Can I make this without sour cream?

Yes. You can substitute full-fat Greek yogurt in equal amounts. It keeps the cake moist and tender.

Why is my coffee cake dry?

It’s usually from overbaking or overmixing the batter. Measure ingredients carefully and check for doneness early.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Bake it a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. It stays soft and flavorful.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes. Double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time as needed and check with a toothpick for doneness.