Cheesecake Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Oh my gosh, if you haven’t experienced the magical marriage of cheesecake and coffee cake, you’re seriously missing out! Imagine waking up on a lazy weekend morning, the smell of freshly brewed coffee wafting through your kitchen, paired with a slice of something soft, creamy, and decadently rich – that’s what this Cheesecake Coffee Cake brings to your table.

• It’s like the best of both worlds: the buttery, tender crumb of coffee cake, with a luscious, creamy cheesecake layer nestled right in the middle.
• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a fancy afternoon treat with your tea or coffee.
• This recipe isn’t just tasty; it’s a conversation starter! You’ll impress friends and family with something that looks as fancy as it tastes.

By the end of this, you’ll know exactly how to whip up this show-stopper yourself – and maybe even add your own twist to it!

Cheesecake Coffee Cake Recipe

Here’s the deal: this cake has layers that make it special. There’s a moist, tender coffee cake base, a smooth cheesecake middle, and a crumbly cinnamon streusel topping that gives it just the right amount of texture and sweetness. The flavors blend beautifully, creating a perfect balance between tangy cream cheese and warm cinnamon-spiced cake.

Ingredients Needed

Before we jump into the making, here’s a rundown of what you’ll need. Make sure to gather everything – nothing kills the flow like realizing you’re out of cream cheese halfway through!

For The Coffee Cake Base

• All-purpose flour – the backbone of our cake, provides structure.
• Granulated sugar – adds sweetness and helps with browning.
• Baking powder – the leavening agent that gives our cake a nice rise.
• Salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Butter (unsalted) – cold butter creates that tender crumb.
• Eggs – bind everything together and add richness.
• Vanilla extract – because vanilla = flavor magic.
• Milk or buttermilk – for moisture and tenderness.

For The Cheesecake Layer

• Cream cheese (full fat) – the star of the show, smooth and tangy.
• Granulated sugar – sweetens the cheesecake filling.
• Egg yolk – helps thicken and add creaminess.
• Vanilla extract – again, essential for that aromatic lift.

For The Streusel Topping

• Brown sugar – deep, molasses-y sweetness.
• All-purpose flour – to hold everything together.
• Ground cinnamon – for that warm, cozy spice.
• Cold butter – to create those delicious crumbly bits.
• Optional chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) – for extra crunch and flavor.

How To Make Cheesecake Coffee Cake

Alright, let’s break this down step-by-step so you can follow along easily. I’ll walk you through it like we’re baking side by side.

1. Prepare The Streusel Topping

   • Combine brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nuts (if using) in a bowl.
   • Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside in the fridge so it stays chilled and crumbly.

2. Make The Coffee Cake Batter

   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
   • Cut in cold butter until the texture is like coarse crumbs.
   • In another bowl, beat eggs, milk (or buttermilk), and vanilla extract.
   • Slowly add wet ingredients to the dry, mixing gently until combined (don’t overmix!).

3. Prepare The Cheesecake Filling

   • Beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
   • Add sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract and mix until fully combined and silky.

4. Assemble The Cake

   • Grease and flour a baking pan (an 8 or 9-inch square pan works well).
   • Spread half the coffee cake batter evenly in the pan.
   • Dollop the cheesecake mixture on top and gently spread it out, being careful not to mix with the cake layer.
   • Spread the remaining coffee cake batter over the cheesecake layer – don’t worry if it looks uneven.
   • Sprinkle the streusel topping generously over the top.

5. Bake

   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake (not the cheesecake) comes out clean.
   • Let cool completely before slicing – this allows the cheesecake layer to set beautifully.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Let’s geek out for a moment because understanding why ingredients behave the way they do makes baking so much more rewarding!

• Cream Cheese: It’s the creamy, tangy fat-and-protein blend that melts into a smooth filling. The fat content keeps the cheesecake layer luscious, while the acidity gives it that signature tang.
• Butter in Streusel: Cold butter is key! When baked, the butter melts and creates little pockets in the topping, giving that crispy, crumbly texture.
• Baking Powder: Acts as a leavening agent by releasing CO2 when heated, helping the cake rise and become fluffy.
• Eggs: Eggs are multipurpose – they provide structure through protein coagulation, moisture, and richness.
• Buttermilk (or Milk): Buttermilk adds acidity, which tenderizes gluten in flour, making the cake soft and moist. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Expert Tips

Want to take this cake from great to legendary? Here are some insider secrets:

• Don’t Overmix: Once you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix just until no dry flour remains. Overmixing develops gluten and makes the cake tough.
• Chill the Streusel: Keep your streusel topping cold until it hits the oven. This preserves the crumbly texture.
• Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: It mixes more easily and prevents lumps in the cheesecake layer.
• Pan Prep: Grease and flour your pan, or line it with parchment paper to ensure your cake releases easily.
• Watch the Bake Time: Oven temps vary! Start checking your cake at 50 minutes. The cheesecake layer should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center – it firms up as it cools.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun ways to customize:

• Fruit Add-ins: Swirl in raspberry or blueberry jam between the layers for a fruity twist.
• Chocolate: Add mini chocolate chips to the cake batter or streusel topping for extra indulgence.
• Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or cardamom in the streusel for an exotic flavor boost.
• Nut-Free: Skip the nuts in the streusel and add a sprinkle of oats for texture instead.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.

Final Words

This cheesecake coffee cake is a beautiful blend of textures and flavors, guaranteed to delight everyone who tries it. Whether you serve it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easier to make than it looks.

Trust me – once you make this, it will become your go-to recipe for cozy mornings, special occasions, or anytime you just want to treat yourself.

FAQs

What Is A Cheesecake Coffee Cake?

A cheesecake coffee cake is a dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the light, moist crumb of a coffee cake. It typically features a coffee cake batter base, swirled with a creamy cheesecake filling, and is often topped with streusel or other delicious toppings.

Can I Make Cheesecake Coffee Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make cheesecake coffee cake ahead of time. Once baked, let it cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. It can be kept in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

What Kind Of Cheese Is Used In Cheesecake Coffee Cake?

Typically, cream cheese is used in cheesecake coffee cake recipes because of its smooth texture and rich flavor. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best results, as it provides a creamy consistency and balance to the cake.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Fruit In My Cheesecake Coffee Cake?

Absolutely! While traditional cheesecake coffee cake is often made without fruit, you can add berries like blueberries or raspberries, or even sliced apples or peaches. Just be sure to adjust the batter consistency if needed and place the fruit in a way that it won’t sink during baking.

Is It Necessary To Add Streusel Topping To Cheesecake Coffee Cake?

No, adding a streusel topping is not necessary, but it does add a delightful crunch and extra flavor. If you prefer a more classic look, you can skip the streusel and simply enjoy the smooth cheesecake filling on top of the coffee cake batter.

How Do I Prevent My Cheesecake Coffee Cake From Sinking In The Middle?

To prevent sinking, make sure that your cheesecake filling is well-combined and not too runny. Additionally, avoid overmixing the cake batter, as this can lead to a denser texture that might collapse. If the cake is too moist, you may also need to slightly adjust the baking time or temperature.

Can I Make A Gluten-free Cheesecake Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of cheesecake coffee cake by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Be sure to check for other gluten-containing ingredients in the recipe, such as baking powder, and substitute them with gluten-free alternatives.

What Is The Best Way To Serve Cheesecake Coffee Cake?

Cheesecake coffee cake is best served at room temperature or slightly chilled, especially if it’s been refrigerated. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a hot beverage like coffee or tea for a delightful treat. It can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

How Do I Store Leftover Cheesecake Coffee Cake?

Leftover cheesecake coffee cake should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. If you have a large portion leftover, you can also wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 1-2 months. Let it thaw before serving.

How Long Does It Take To Bake A Cheesecake Coffee Cake?

Baking a cheesecake coffee cake typically takes around 45 to 55 minutes at 350°F (175°C), depending on the size of your pan and your oven. It’s important to check the cake for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the cake portion-if it comes out clean, the cake is done. The cheesecake filling may be slightly soft when the cake is finished baking.