Cinnamon Coffee Cake Recipe – Moist, Easy, and Perfect with Coffee
Introduction
Cinnamon coffee cake is more than just a delightful breakfast treat. It is the kind of baked good that brings back memories of cozy mornings, the comforting aroma of cinnamon drifting through the kitchen, and the warmth of a fresh slice enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee. This classic dessert has been around for generations, loved for its soft, tender crumb and the irresistible cinnamon swirl tucked inside.
What makes cinnamon coffee cake truly special is its versatility. Whether you are serving it at a weekend brunch, sharing it at a family gathering, or simply enjoying it alone with your favorite brew, this cake always hits the mark. Unlike traditional cakes, it is not overly sweet or rich. Instead, it strikes the perfect balance between flavor and texture, making it an ideal companion for your morning or afternoon coffee.
Baking cinnamon coffee cake at home is surprisingly easy and incredibly rewarding. The ingredients are simple and likely already in your pantry. The preparation process is straightforward, even for beginner bakers. Once baked, the golden crust and cinnamon-sugar layers offer a satisfying crunch and sweetness that pair beautifully with the soft interior.
In this article, we will walk through everything you need to know about making a cinnamon coffee cake from scratch. From ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips for customization, nutritional breakdown, and serving suggestions, you’ll find all the details you need to master this comforting recipe.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a table listing all the key ingredients required to make a traditional cinnamon coffee cake, along with an approximate calorie count for each based on standard measurements.
| Ingredient | Amount | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | 910 |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | 774 |
| Brown sugar (for filling) | ¾ cup | 547 |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | ½ cup (1 stick) | 810 |
| Eggs | 2 large | 140 |
| Whole milk | 1 cup | 150 |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons | 5 |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon | 0 |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 tablespoons | 38 |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons | 24 |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | 0 |
| Sour cream (optional) | ½ cup | 240 |
Total estimated calories for the entire recipe: ~3,638
Calories per slice (assuming 12 servings): ~303
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. - Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and one tablespoon of cinnamon. Set aside.Discover even more flavors in Coffee Ice Cream - Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about three to four minutes. - Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs, one at a time. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined. - Incorporate the Dry Ingredients and Milk
Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry mix. If using sour cream, fold it in at this stage for extra moisture and tang. - Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and the remaining tablespoon of cinnamon. Mix well. - Assemble the Cake
Pour half of the batter into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top. Repeat with the remaining batter and sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon mixture on top. - Create the Swirl
Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon layer into the batter. Do not overmix; just a few figure-eight motions will do. - Bake the Cake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. - Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Cinnamon coffee cake is highly adaptable. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
Nutritional Information
A typical slice of cinnamon coffee cake offers a comforting combination of carbs, fats, and a touch of protein. Here’s a general breakdown per serving (based on 12 servings per cake):
These values will vary depending on ingredient brands and exact portion sizes, so be sure to adjust if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon coffee cake shines in many settings. Serve it warm with freshly brewed coffee or a spiced chai latte. It also pairs beautifully with herbal teas and cold brews. For a decadent touch, drizzle it with a simple vanilla glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
If serving at a brunch table, offer alongside fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, or even breakfast sausage for a savory balance. You can also top slices with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if you’re leaning into dessert territory.
To store leftovers, wrap the cake tightly and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. It also freezes well for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven before serving.
Cinnamon Coffee Cake Recipe – Moist, Easy, and Perfect with Coffee
Course: Blog12
servings15
minutes40
minutes~303
kcalIngredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup sour cream (optional, for added moisture)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients in a bowl: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon.
- Cream butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Add eggs and vanilla. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
- Alternate dry mix and milk. Gradually add the flour mixture and milk in batches, mixing until just combined. If using sour cream, fold it in now.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Sour cream adds extra richness and keeps the cake moist, but it’s optional.
You can add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the cinnamon layer for extra crunch.
Leftovers can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make cinnamon coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and bake it fresh in the morning. Alternatively, bake the full cake and store it wrapped at room temperature for up to three days.
Is coffee one of the ingredients in cinnamon coffee cake?
No, despite the name, this cake does not contain coffee. The name refers to it being served alongside coffee.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
You can use vegetable oil or coconut oil, but the texture will be slightly different. Butter provides a richer flavor and traditional crumb.
How do I make it more moist?
Using sour cream or Greek yogurt adds extra moisture. Be careful not to overbake the cake as that can cause dryness.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s sweet and soft enough for kids to enjoy. You can even cut the sugar slightly for a healthier version.
Can I add a glaze or icing?
Absolutely. A simple glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and a dash of vanilla enhances the flavor and presentation.
Conclusion
Cinnamon coffee cake has a timeless charm that never goes out of style. From its soft, moist layers to the warm cinnamon swirl hidden inside, each bite offers a perfect balance of comfort and flavor. Whether you’re baking it for a weekend treat or just craving a slice of something cozy, this cake delivers every time.
