Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Swirl

Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Swirl is one of those delectable treats that feels like a warm hug on a plate. If you enjoy baking, this recipe is pure joy to create and an absolute delight to share. Imagine waking up to the aroma of cinnamon wafting through your home, mingling with the scent of freshly brewed coffee. It’s the kind of cake that doesn’t just sit on the table; it invites conversation and connection. Whether it’s a quiet weekend morning or a lively brunch with friends, this coffee cake fits right in, ready to be enjoyed. With layers of moist cake, a luscious cinnamon swirl, and a crunchy streusel topping, it’s pretty hard to resist! Let’s get started on bringing this delightful slice of happiness straight from your oven to your family’s table.

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Why This Recipe Works

Sour cream introduces rich moisture and enhances the tenderness of the cake, while a perfect blend of sugars creates a delightful contrast with the cinnamon filling. The combination of a crunchy streusel topping and a smooth vanilla glaze not only elevates the coffee cake’s flavor but also its texture, making every bite a blissful experience.

Why You’ll Love This Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Swirl

This cake is your go-to recipe for any occasion — from peaceful mornings at home to show-stopping brunch gatherings. Its melt-in-your-mouth flavor and comforting aroma can instantly lift spirits and create unforgettable memories with family and friends. Plus, it’s deceptively simple to make!

Ingredients

For the Streusel Topping:
– 1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour
– ⅔ cup (146 grams) light brown sugar
– 2 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
– ½ cup (114 grams) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

For the Cinnamon Swirl:
– ¾ cup (165 grams) light brown sugar
– ⅓ cup (40 grams) all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

For the Coffee Cake:
– 2 cups (240 grams) all-purpose flour
– 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– ¾ cup (170 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup (200 grams) white sugar
– ⅓ cup (73 grams) light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 large egg yolk
– 2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
– ¾ cup (180 grams) sour cream

For the Vanilla Glaze:
– 1 cup (120 grams) confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30 grams) milk (or to desired consistency)
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Create the Streusel Topping

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt until combined. Add the cold cubed butter, working it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles wet sand with small clumps. Chill in the fridge while you prepare the rest.

Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.

Make the Coffee Cake Mixture

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together until evenly combined.

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, white sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, beating until smooth.

Start by adding one-third of the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Next, incorporate half the sour cream, mixing again. Alternate adding the flour mixture and sour cream, finishing with the last bit of flour. Be careful not to overmix.

Layer the Cake

Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over the batter, then carefully spread the remaining batter on top, smoothing it out with a spatula. Finally, sprinkle the chilled streusel topping evenly over everything.

Bake the Cake

Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes before lifting it out using the parchment overhang and transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Create the Vanilla Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.

Drizzle and Serve

Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake and allow it to set before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Sour Cream Coffee Cake with a steaming cup of coffee, tea, or your favorite herbal blend for a delightful afternoon snack or breakfast treat.

Tips for Success

• Ensure butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake tender.
• Chill the streusel topping before baking for a perfectly crunchy texture.

Variations

• Swap the cinnamon for nutmeg or add walnuts for added crunch.
• For a chocolate twist, incorporate cocoa powder into the cake batter.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil.

FAQs

1. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute and will maintain the cake’s moisture.

2. How do I prevent my coffee cake from sticking to the pan?
Make sure to line the pan with parchment paper and grease the sides.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend; ensure it includes xanthan gum.

4. What size pan can I use?
A 9×9-inch pan is ideal, but you can also use an 8×8-inch pan for a thicker cake or a round cake pan.

5. Can I add fruit to the recipe?
Yes! Adding fresh berries or apples can introduce a delicious burst of flavor.

Savoring this Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Swirl is about more than just tasting delightful flavors—it’s an invitation to create cherished moments around the table. Gather your loved ones, brew some coffee, and indulge in a slice of this indulgent yet attainable treat. Whether it’s a weekday morning or a special occasion, this coffee cake will always hit the spot. Enjoy the experience and the smiles it brings!

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