Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, tender, and irresistibly crumbly treat that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or afternoon tea, look no further than this Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe. It’s that nostalgic, cozy cake you’ll want to bake again and again — buttery cake layers swirled with a fragrant cinnamon streusel topping that’s just the right balance of sweet and spicy. Whether it’s for a special brunch, a family gathering, or simply a comforting snack, this recipe brings that old-fashioned bakery magic right to your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward yet essential for achieving the perfect texture, flavor, and that signature cinnamon streusel crunch. Each item plays a vital role, from creating the tender crumb of the cake to adding depth and richness with the cinnamon-sugar topping.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of our cake, providing structure and softness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a light texture when creamed with butter.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture, making each bite buttery and tender.
• 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature: Keeps the cake moist while adding a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature: Binds the batter together and gives it lift and body.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with aromatic warmth, a classic pairing with cinnamon.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: The leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside the sour cream to create a tender crumb.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies other flavors.
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed: The secret behind that intoxicating caramelized taste in the streusel.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for streusel): Gives the streusel its delightful crumbly texture.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for streusel): Binds the streusel ingredients while adding buttery richness.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses the streusel with warm, cozy flavor.
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty depth to the topping.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates a sweet, smooth finish to drizzle over the cooled cake.
• 2 tablespoons milk or cream: Thins the glaze for the perfect drizzle consistency.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Adds a finishing touch of sweetness and aroma to the glaze.

How to Make Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9 by 13-inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This ensures your coffee cake will bake evenly and release effortlessly when it’s ready.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures all the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the batter so your cake rises perfectly with a soft crumb.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. This stage traps air in the mixture, which is essential for that tender, airy cake texture that melts in your mouth.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract. This builds richness and deepens the flavor profile of the batter.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined — overmixing can make the cake dense, and we want it soft and tender.

Step 6: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a separate bowl, stir together the brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and mix until you get a crumbly texture. Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans if you’re using them — they add a lovely crunch and extra flavor dimension.

Step 7: Layer Batter and Streusel

Spread half of the cake batter evenly in the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the streusel mixture over the batter. Repeat with the remaining batter and finish with the remaining streusel on top. This layering creates those iconic cinnamon swirls and a perfect streusel crunch in every bite.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma as this Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe bakes to golden perfection.

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, whisk powdered sugar with milk or cream and vanilla extract to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle it over the top for a sweet finishing touch that adds shine and a delicate sweetness.

How to Serve Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe

Garnishes

For an inviting presentation, consider sprinkling extra chopped nuts on the glaze or adding a light dusting of powdered sugar. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream also complement this coffee cake wonderfully, adding fresh notes and softness to each slice.

Side Dishes

This coffee cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea — the perfect way to balance the sweetness and spice. For a more indulgent brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a creamy yogurt parfait for a complete, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake into squares and serve on individual plates with a gentle drizzle of honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist. You can also cut it into smaller bite-sized pieces to serve at parties, turning this Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe into a festive treat everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh for up to three days at room temperature. Keeping the glaze covered prevents it from drying out and keeps your cake tasting like it just came out of the oven.

Freezing

This coffee cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or warm the whole cake in a 300°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes to revive that freshly-baked taste. Reheating enhances the buttery aroma and softens the cake for a perfectly comforting bite.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for sour cream and will still keep your coffee cake moist with a slight tang, though the texture might be a little denser. Just ensure it’s at room temperature for best mixing.

What type of nuts work best in the streusel?

Walnuts and pecans are traditional favorites because they add wonderful crunch and nuttiness, but feel free to experiment with almonds or hazelnuts if you prefer. Toasting the nuts beforehand can enhance their flavor even more.

Is it necessary to use both baking powder and baking soda?

Yes, both work together here — baking powder helps the cake rise overall, while baking soda reacts with the sour cream’s acidity to give the cake extra lift and tenderness.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

With some adjustments, yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. The texture may vary slightly, but the cinnamon streusel flavor will still shine.

How do I prevent the streusel from sinking to the bottom?

Layering half the batter first and sprinkling half of the streusel before adding the remaining batter and streusel on top is key. This creates layers that hold the topping in place so it bakes beautifully on top.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe is truly a treasure to have in your baking repertoire. Its comforting cinnamon flavor, tender crumb, and crumbly streusel make it a perfect way to brighten any morning or afternoon snack. I can’t wait for you to try it and make some sweet memories over a slice of this timeless delight.

Print