Cherry Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Alright, let’s talk about something truly special-a Cherry Coffee Cake that’s not just your average breakfast treat, but a delightful, aromatic, and fruit-packed experience. Imagine waking up to the smell of freshly baked cake with juicy cherries bursting in every bite and a hint of cinnamon that makes you feel all warm and cozy inside. This cake is the perfect companion to your morning coffee or afternoon tea, turning any ordinary day into a little celebration.

• Why coffee cake? Because it’s all about that tender crumb, moist texture, and a crumbly, buttery streusel topping that just melts in your mouth.
• Why cherries? They add a juicy tartness and vibrant color, giving this cake a fresh twist and making it stand out from the usual plain coffee cakes.
• Who is this recipe for? Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is approachable yet impressive. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize to your liking.

So, if you’re ready for a baking adventure that’ll fill your home with the most delicious aromas and give you a cake everyone will rave about, let’s dive in!

Cherry Coffee Cake Recipe

Here’s the star of the show-the recipe that blends sweet, tart cherries with a soft, buttery cake and a crunchy cinnamon streusel topping. This recipe balances flavors and textures beautifully and is guaranteed to be a hit.

Overview

• A moist, tender cake base infused with vanilla and cinnamon.
• Fresh (or frozen!) cherries folded right into the batter.
• A buttery, crumbly streusel topping with a hint of spice and sugar crunch.
• Baked until golden, soft inside, and perfectly balanced with cherry bursts.

Ingredients Needed

Let’s talk ingredients! The magic starts here, and knowing why each one is important can really elevate your baking game.

Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour – The foundation for structure; balances tenderness and strength.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetness and tender crumb; caramelizes slightly on the crust.
• Baking powder & baking soda – Leavening agents to make the cake rise beautifully.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.

Wet Ingredients

• Unsalted butter – For richness, moisture, and that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Eggs – Provide structure, moisture, and help emulsify ingredients.
• Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt – Adds moisture and slight tang, keeping the cake tender and preventing dryness.

The Stars

• Fresh or frozen cherries (pitted) – Juicy, tart, and bursting with flavor; if frozen, just thaw and drain excess liquid.
• Cinnamon – Adds warm spice notes, especially important in the streusel topping.

For The Streusel Topping

• Brown sugar – For a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
• Butter – Melted or softened for richness.
• Flour – Gives the streusel its crumbly texture.
• Cinnamon – Because cinnamon and cherries are best friends!

How To Make Cherry Coffee Cake

Let’s get our hands floury and make this masterpiece step by step. I’ll walk you through the whole process so nothing’s left to chance.

1. Prep Your Ingredients

   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease and flour an 8 or 9-inch cake pan.
   • Pit and roughly chop your cherries if needed.

2. Make The Streusel Topping

   • Mix together brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and cold butter until crumbly.
   • Set aside in the fridge to keep cold until ready to sprinkle.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients

   • Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl.

4. Cream Butter And Sugar

   • Beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy-this is where the cake gets its airy texture.

5. Add Eggs And Vanilla

   • One at a time, beat eggs into the butter mixture.
   • Stir in vanilla extract.

6. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients And Sour Cream

   • Add flour mixture in thirds, alternating with sour cream.
   • Start and end with the flour mixture.
   • Mix gently to avoid overworking the batter.

7. Fold In Cherries

   • Carefully fold in cherries, trying not to break them up too much.

8. Assemble The Cake

   • Pour batter into the prepared pan.
   • Evenly sprinkle the streusel topping over the batter.

9. Bake

   • Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
   • Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

10. Enjoy!

    • Serve warm or at room temperature, ideally with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Let’s geek out a little and uncover why these ingredients do their thing:

• Flour’s Role: Flour contains gluten-forming proteins that provide structure. The key is to mix just enough to hydrate the flour but not overmix, or the cake turns tough.
• Baking Powder & Soda: Baking powder releases CO2 bubbles to help the cake rise. Baking soda works with the acidic sour cream and cherries to enhance rise and tenderness.
• Butter: When creamed with sugar, butter traps air that expands during baking, making the cake light and fluffy.
• Sour Cream: The fat and acidity tenderize the crumb and add moisture, making the cake decadently soft.
• Cherries: Their natural pectin and moisture add bursts of juiciness, but too much juice can weigh down the batter, so draining is key if using frozen.

Expert Tips

Okay, if you want to nail this cake like a pro, here are some insider nuggets:

• Don’t overmix the batter! Stop mixing as soon as the flour disappears.
• Use room temperature ingredients. Butter, eggs, and sour cream at room temp combine more smoothly.
• Drain frozen cherries well. To avoid soggy batter, pat them dry or drain excess juice.
• Chill your streusel topping. Keeps butter cold and crumbly, so it crisps up nicely during baking.
• Use parchment paper. Lining your pan makes cake removal a breeze.
• Test doneness carefully. Insert a toothpick near the cherries but avoid landing on them-moisture can give a false ’not done’ reading.
• Let the cake cool a bit before slicing so the juices settle, making for neater slices.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun spins to customize this cake:

• Almond Cherry Coffee Cake: Add 1 tsp almond extract instead of vanilla, and toss cherries with sliced almonds.
• Chocolate Cherry Coffee Cake: Add ½ cup cocoa powder to the flour mix, and sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the batter.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and vegan butter.
• Add Nuts: Walnuts or pecans in the streusel add crunch and flavor complexity.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for an exotic twist.

Final Words

This Cherry Coffee Cake isn’t just a recipe-it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that bring people together. Whether you’re serving it to guests, gifting it to a friend, or just treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to brighten up your day. Plus, it’s flexible enough to become your new favorite canvas for creativity.

There’s something so satisfying about the way the tart cherries complement the sweet, buttery cake and the crunch of cinnamon streusel. And if you ask me, that first bite with a hot cup of coffee? Pure magic.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients Needed For A Cherry Coffee Cake?

The key ingredients for a cherry coffee cake typically include all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, butter, sour cream or yogurt, vanilla extract, and fresh or canned cherries. Some recipes may also call for a streusel topping made from butter, sugar, and flour.

Can I Use Frozen Cherries Instead Of Fresh Cherries In The Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones. However, it’s important to thaw and drain them well before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture from affecting the cake’s texture.

How Can I Make The Cherry Coffee Cake More Flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a touch of almond extract or cinnamon to the batter or streusel topping. You can also use a mix of fresh or frozen cherries for a varied flavor profile and incorporate some lemon zest for a citrusy kick.

Is It Necessary To Use Sour Cream Or Yogurt In A Cherry Coffee Cake Recipe?

Sour cream or yogurt is often used to add moisture and tenderness to the cake. While it is highly recommended for the best texture, you can substitute it with buttermilk or milk if needed, though the texture may differ slightly.

Can I Make A Dairy-free Version Of Cherry Coffee Cake?

Yes, a dairy-free cherry coffee cake is possible. You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative and use a non-dairy milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk. For sour cream, use a plant-based yogurt or non-dairy sour cream.

How Do I Ensure My Cherry Coffee Cake Is Moist And Not Dry?

To prevent the cake from becoming dry, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to a dense texture. Use room temperature ingredients, especially butter and eggs, to ensure even mixing. Additionally, sour cream or yogurt helps retain moisture. If using frozen cherries, make sure they are thoroughly drained before adding them to the batter.

Can I Make Cherry Coffee Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make cherry coffee cake ahead of time. After baking, let the cake cool completely and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then reheat it before serving.

What Is The Best Way To Store Cherry Coffee Cake?

Cherry coffee cake should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store it for longer, freeze the cake. To maintain freshness, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Can I Use Other Fruits In Place Of Cherries For A Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can easily swap out cherries for other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, or peaches. Just keep in mind that the moisture content of different fruits may vary, so adjust the baking time or batter consistency as needed.

How Do I Make A Streusel Topping For Cherry Coffee Cake?

To make a streusel topping, combine equal parts of flour, sugar, and butter (about 1/2 cup each). Mix until crumbly, then sprinkle over the top of the batter before baking. You can add cinnamon, oats, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.