Cinnamon Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Oh, cinnamon coffee cake – just saying those words makes me think of cozy mornings, warm kitchens, and that irresistible aroma that wraps around you like a soft blanket. If you’re someone who loves the idea of a sweet, tender cake with that perfect balance of cinnamon spice and buttery crumble, then you’re in the right place. Coffee cake isn’t actually made with coffee (though it pairs beautifully with a cup), but it’s named for being that ideal companion to your morning brew.

Whether you’re a baking newbie or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a wonderful treat to whip up when you want to impress friends, brighten up your weekend breakfast, or simply indulge in a little self-care. Trust me, once you master this, you’ll find yourself craving cinnamon coffee cake for all kinds of occasions – brunches, birthdays, or even as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.

So, ready to turn your kitchen into a cinnamon-scented paradise? Let’s jump into the delicious details!

Cinnamon Coffee Cake Recipe

Here’s the game plan – a classic cinnamon coffee cake that’s moist, buttery, with a generous swirl of cinnamon sugar inside, and topped with a perfectly crumbly streusel. This cake strikes the perfect balance: it’s sweet but not overly so, with a hint of cinnamon that’s warm without being overpowering. The crumb topping adds that extra bit of texture and makes it just chef’s kiss perfect.

Ingredients Needed

Let’s talk ingredients – the stars of the show! You probably have most of these in your pantry already. Here’s the full list, plus a quick note on why each matters:

• All-purpose Flour (2 Cups)

  The backbone of the cake, providing structure and a tender crumb.

• Granulated Sugar (3/4 Cup)

  Sweetness and moisture, plus it helps with browning.

• Brown Sugar (1/2 Cup, Packed)

  Adds a lovely caramel depth and moisture to the crumb topping.

• Baking Powder (2 Tsp)

  Our rising agent that helps the cake get fluffy and light.

• Salt (1/2 Tsp)

  Enhances all the other flavors – don’t skip this!

• Ground Cinnamon (2 Tbsp Total)

  Divided between the cake batter and the streusel for that classic cinnamon punch.

• Unsalted Butter (1/2 Cup, Softened + 1/4 Cup Cold For Streusel)

  Butter is life. It adds richness, moisture, and helps with tenderness.

• Eggs (2 Large)

  For structure and moisture – eggs bind everything together.

• Vanilla Extract (1 Tsp)

  A little magic that rounds out all the flavors.

• Sour Cream Or Plain Yogurt (1/2 Cup)

  This keeps the cake moist and tender with a subtle tang.

• Milk (1/2 Cup)

  Thins out the batter just right for that perfect texture.

How To Make Cinnamon Coffee Cake

Now for the fun part – the step-by-step magic! Don’t worry, it’s easy and very satisfying.

1. Prep Your Oven And Pan

   Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Make The Streusel Topping

   In a small bowl, combine:

   • 1/2 cup brown sugar
   • 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small cubes
   • 1 tbsp cinnamon

   • 1/2 cup flour

     Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until crumbly. Set aside.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients

   In a large bowl, whisk together:

   • Flour
   • Baking powder
   • Salt
   • 1 tbsp cinnamon (reserve the other tablespoon for streusel)

4. Cream Butter And Sugar

   In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy – about 3 minutes. This is key to a tender cake.

5. Add Eggs And Vanilla

   Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.

6. Combine Wet And Dry Ingredients

   Alternate adding the flour mixture and the milk plus sour cream to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined – don’t overmix or you’ll get a tough cake.

7. Assemble The Cake

   Pour half the batter into the pan. Sprinkle half of the streusel on top, then dollop the remaining batter over the streusel layer. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the batter and streusel together. Top with the remaining streusel.

8. Bake

   Pop it in the oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean (but watch for some moist crumbs around cinnamon pockets – that’s perfect!).

9. Cool And Serve

   Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then slice and serve warm or at room temperature. A cup of coffee or tea is mandatory.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Here’s the cool science behind why this cake works so well:

• Baking Powder: It’s a leavening agent that releases carbon dioxide bubbles when wet and heated, causing the batter to rise and become airy. Without it, your cake would be dense and heavy.
• Butter: When creamed with sugar, butter traps tiny air bubbles which expand during baking, creating a lighter crumb. Plus, butter’s fat coats the flour proteins, limiting gluten formation and making the cake tender.
• Sour Cream: This ingredient adds moisture and acidity, which reacts with baking powder for a better rise. It also contributes to a moist, tender texture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
• Cinnamon: Beyond flavor, cinnamon has antioxidants and antimicrobial properties. It’s also hygroscopic – meaning it helps retain moisture in the cake, keeping it fresh longer.
• Sugar: Aside from sweetness, sugar dissolves in the batter and helps tenderize by inhibiting gluten development, making for a softer bite.

Expert Tips

Okay, here’s where I spill the secrets to take your cinnamon coffee cake from good to legendary:

• Don’t overmix the batter! When you combine wet and dry ingredients, stir just until incorporated. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tougher cake.
• Use room temperature ingredients. Butter, eggs, milk, and sour cream should be at room temp for better emulsification and even baking.
• Swirl but don’t fully mix the streusel. The beautiful marbled effect comes from a gentle swirl, not a full blend.
• Cold butter for the streusel. This ensures the topping stays crumbly and doesn’t melt into the batter.
• Let the cake rest a bit before slicing. This lets the steam escape and flavors meld, making it easier to cut and more flavorful.
• Toast your cinnamon before mixing. Optional, but lightly toasting cinnamon in a dry pan releases essential oils and intensifies flavor.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous or want to tailor it to your taste? Here are some tasty twists:

• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans in the streusel add crunch and depth.
• Fruit infusion: Toss in blueberries or chopped apples for a fruity surprise.
• Cream cheese swirl: Replace half the sour cream with softened cream cheese for extra richness.
• Gluten-free: Substitute flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Vegan version: Use flax eggs, vegan butter, and plant-based yogurt/milk.
• Spice it up: Add nutmeg, cardamom, or a pinch of cloves alongside cinnamon for a warming spice blend.
• Glaze topping: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar and milk glaze over the cooled cake for extra sweetness and shine.

Final Words

Making cinnamon coffee cake is more than just baking – it’s creating an experience. The aromas that fill your home, the golden crumb topping begging to be broken apart, and the first warm bite paired with a hot drink – these moments are pure joy. Whether you keep it classic or try one of the variations, this cake is a winner every time.

It’s easy enough for a weekday treat but special enough to bring out for guests or celebrations. Plus, it keeps well for a few days – if it lasts that long!

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need To Make A Cinnamon Coffee Cake?

To make a cinnamon coffee cake, you’ll need basic baking ingredients such as flour, sugar, butter, eggs, baking powder, milk, and vanilla extract. For the cinnamon swirl, you’ll need brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and sometimes chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.

How Do I Make The Cinnamon Swirl In A Coffee Cake?

To make the cinnamon swirl, combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and sometimes chopped nuts. Mix them together and sprinkle the mixture between layers of the batter before baking. It will create a beautiful marbled effect inside the cake.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Flour For A Cinnamon Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can use alternatives like whole wheat flour, gluten-free flour, or almond flour. However, if you substitute these, the texture and taste of the cake may differ slightly. Be sure to adjust the measurements as needed, especially with gluten-free flour, which can require additional binding agents.

Is There A Way To Make The Cinnamon Coffee Cake Recipe Healthier?

You can make the cake healthier by reducing the sugar, using whole grain flour, substituting applesauce for some of the butter, or using a sugar substitute. You can also add extra spices like nutmeg for additional flavor without added sugar.

How Do I Prevent The Cinnamon Swirl From Sinking To The Bottom Of The Cake?

To prevent the cinnamon swirl from sinking, make sure the batter is thick enough and layer it properly. Start with a layer of batter in the pan, then sprinkle some of the cinnamon mixture. Add another layer of batter, followed by the remaining cinnamon mixture, and finish with a top layer of batter. You can also lightly swirl the cinnamon mixture with a knife, but avoid overmixing.

Can I Make Cinnamon Coffee Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the cinnamon coffee cake a day or two in advance. To do this, bake it as directed, let it cool completely, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store it at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Can I Freeze Cinnamon Coffee Cake?

Yes, cinnamon coffee cake freezes well. After it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw at room temperature or warm it in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.

How Can I Add A Glaze Or Frosting To My Cinnamon Coffee Cake?

A simple glaze can be made by mixing powdered sugar with a small amount of milk or cream and vanilla extract. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled coffee cake for an added sweetness. You can also make a cream cheese frosting for a richer topping.

What Is The Best Way To Store Leftover Cinnamon Coffee Cake?

To store leftover cinnamon coffee cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend its freshness, you can refrigerate it. If you’re storing it for a longer period, freezing is the best option.

Can I Use A Bundt Pan Instead Of A Regular Cake Pan For Cinnamon Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can use a bundt pan for a cinnamon coffee cake. Just make sure to grease and flour the pan well to prevent sticking. Baking times may vary slightly depending on the size of the bundt pan, so keep an eye on the cake as it bakes.