Sour Cream Coffee Cake: Irresistible Recipe for Perfection

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Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make treat that pairs perfectly with your morning cup of joe? Look no further than this delectable Sour cream coffee cake recipe!

Are you a coffee lover looking for a delectable breakfast treat that perfectly complements your favorite brew? Look no further than coffee cake! This classic baked good has been a breakfast staple for generations and is loved for its moist, tender crumb and irresistible sour cream topping. In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of sour cream coffee cake and share a delicious recipe that will have you reaching for another slice. So put on your apron and preheat your oven – it’s time to make a coffee cake!

History of Coffee Cake

Believe it or not, the history of coffee cake dates back to the 17th century in Northern/Central Europe. At that time, coffee was a luxury that only the wealthy could afford, and it was often served with sweet pastries, like cake, as a sign of hospitality. Over time, the coffee cake became more popular, and variations started popping up in different countries worldwide.

In America, coffee cake began to gain popularity in the early 19th century. As coffee became more widely available, it became a staple in many households, and people began seeking sweet treats to enjoy alongside it. This trend led to many kinds of coffee cake, from simple streusel-topped cakes to elaborate versions made with nuts, fruit, and other flavors.

Today, coffee cake is a beloved breakfast and snack item worldwide, becoming a staple of many households. From the simple and classic recipes to the more elaborate and unique variations, there’s a coffee cake recipe to suit every taste and occasion. Whether savoring it with a hot cup of coffee in the morning or enjoying it as an afternoon snack, the coffee cake will satisfy your sweet tooth and warm your soul.

Why is it called coffee cake?

The reason why it’s called coffee cake is not that it contains coffee as an ingredient but rather because it’s meant to be enjoyed with coffee. Originally, coffee cake was a sweet pastry served alongside coffee as a treat for guests, and the name simply stuck. Over time, the recipe and variations of coffee cake have evolved, but the tradition of enjoying it with a cup of coffee has remained the same. The pairing of coffee and cake has become so ubiquitous that “coffee cake” has become associated with any type of cake or pastry suitable for enjoying a hot cup of coffee.

different cultural variations of coffee cake

While the coffee cake may have originated in Northern/Central Europe, it has since become a global sensation, with different cultures putting their spin on this beloved baked good. For example, in Sweden, cinnamon-flavored coffee cake is a staple of the country’s fika tradition, which involves taking a break to enjoy coffee and a sweet snack with friends or colleagues.

In Denmark, coffee cake takes the form of kringles, which are twisted pastries filled with cinnamon, nuts, or fruit. Meanwhile, in Germany, Streuselkuchen is a popular variety of coffee cakes that is topped with a sweet, crumbly streusel topping made with flour, sugar, and butter.

In the United States, the coffee cake has evolved to include various recipes, ranging from classic cinnamon streusel cakes to elaborate versions made with fruit, nuts, or cream cheese. Some variations even include chocolate or caramel, adding an extra layer of indulgence to this beloved treat.

No matter where you go, the coffee cake has become a beloved staple of breakfast and snack time, loved for its rich flavor and comforting texture. And with so many cultural variations, there’s always a new and exciting recipe.

Sour Cream Coffee Cake Recipe

Sour cream coffee cake is a classic baked treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you want something sweet and comforting. The cake’s rich, moist texture and subtle tangy flavor come from adding sour cream to the batter. The sour cream coffee cake becomes a show-stopping dessert that will impress your family and friends when combined with a crunchy, cinnamon-sugar streusel topping and a sweet maple glaze.

Although it may sound fancy, sour cream coffee cake is surprisingly easy to make, even for novice bakers. With just a few basic ingredients and simple techniques, you can whip up a delicious, homemade cake that will rival anything you can buy at a bakery. Whether you serve it for breakfast or dessert, this delightful cake will become a family favorite.

Ingredients

To make the perfect Sour Cream Coffee Cake, you’ll need a variety of basic baking ingredients and key flavorings to give the cake its signature taste. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter at room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 extra-large eggs at room temperature
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups sour cream
• 2 1/2 cups cake flour (not self-rising)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For the streusel:

• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 3/4 cup chopped walnuts, optional

For the glaze:

• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons real maple syrup

Of course, you can add your personal touches to the recipe, such as chopped nuts or swapping out the cinnamon for a different spice. But these basic ingredients will get you started on your way to making a delicious Sour Cream Coffee Cake. Just be sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best results!

Tools Needed

To make a sour cream coffee cake, you don’t need a lot of fancy equipment. Here are the basic tools you’ll need:

Mixing bowls: You’ll need several mixing bowls to mix the cake batter, streusel topping, and glaze. Glass or stainless steel bowls work well and are easy to clean.

Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measuring is essential for baking, so ensure you have a set of measuring cups and spoons to measure your ingredients.

Electric mixer: A stand or handheld mixer makes mixing the cake batter and streusel topping a breeze, although you can also mix everything by hand.

Rubber spatula: Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the mixing bowl’s sides and fold in the sour cream and dry ingredients.

10-inch tube pan: A tube pan with a removable bottom is the best choice for making sour cream coffee cake, as it allows the cake to bake evenly and makes it easy to remove from the pan.

Cooling rack: After baking the cake, you’ll need to let it cool before glazing it. A cooling rack helps to prevent the cake from getting soggy on the bottom.

Serrated knife: Use a serrated knife to slice the cake into portions before serving.

These basic tools give you everything you need to make a delicious sour cream coffee cake. Happy baking!

Directions:

Now that you have all the ingredients and tools to make a delicious sour cream coffee cake, it’s time to start with the directions.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-inch tube pan with butter or cooking spray.
2. Whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy in a large mixing bowl. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the sour cream, and mix until just combined.
5. In a separate bowl, prepare the streusel by mixing the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped walnuts (if using).
6. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared tube pan. Sprinkle the streusel over the batter in an even layer. Top with the remaining batter.
7. Bake the cake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes clean.
8. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cake, then remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
9. To make the glaze, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and maple syrup in a small bowl. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.
10. Serve the sour cream coffee cake in slices, and enjoy!

And there you have it! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious and impressive sour cream coffee cake ready to serve.

Recipe Variations:

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to experiment with the classic sour cream coffee cake recipe, here are some fun and tasty variations.

1. Fruit add-ins: Fold fresh or frozen fruit into the cake batter before baking for added flavor and texture. Blueberries, raspberries, diced apples, or sliced peaches all work well.
2. Nutella swirl: Swirl Nutella or another chocolate hazelnut spread into the cake batter for a rich and indulgent twist.
3. Streusel variations: Change the flavors in the streusel by adding spices like nutmeg or ginger or swapping out the walnuts for pecans or almonds.
4. Glaze alternatives: Instead of the maple glaze, try a cream cheese frosting or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.
5. Cinnamon roll coffee cake: Roll the cake batter into a rectangle and spread a cinnamon-sugar mixture. Roll up and slice into rounds before baking for a cinnamon roll-inspired coffee cake.
6. Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the cake flour to make a gluten-free version of the cake.

These are just a few ideas to get started, but don’t be afraid to get creative and create variations on the classic sour cream coffee cake recipe.

Serving Suggestions:

Sour cream coffee cake is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed anytime. Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started:

1. Brunch: Serve the coffee cake with fresh fruit, yogurt, and coffee or tea for a satisfying brunch.
2. Dessert: Top a warm slice of coffee cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
3. Gift: Wrap a loaf of coffee cake in parchment paper and tie it with a ribbon for a thoughtful and delicious gift.
4. Office or potluck: Bring the coffee cake to an office party or potluck as a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love.

Whether you’re enjoying a slice for breakfast or dessert or bringing it to a gathering, sour cream coffee cake is a classic treat that will surely delight you.

Conclusion

The sour cream coffee cake offers a cozy and scrumptious delight for any gathering or quiet moment. It captivates with its tender texture, the sweet allure of cinnamon streusel, and a luscious maple glaze topping. This coffee cake is poised to become a cherished staple in your kitchen.

Our recipe, complete with various adaptations and tips, empowers you to bake a version that’s distinctively yours. So, it’s time to heat your oven, assemble your baking essentials, and revel in the enchanting scent of sour cream coffee cake as it permeates your home.

For more baking adventures, explore our guide to perfecting your coffee cake, and perhaps pair it with a homemade Cortadito Coffee for an ultimate treat.