Coffee Cake With Self Rising Flour Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Oh, coffee cake – it’s one of those magical baked goods that perfectly straddles the line between breakfast and dessert, a cozy companion to your morning cup of joe or an afternoon snack that just hits the spot. But here’s the twist: this recipe uses self-rising flour, which is a game-changer when it comes to ease and texture. No need to fuss over adding baking powder or salt separately; self-rising flour has your back.

What’s so special about coffee cake anyway? It’s not just a cake with coffee, although some versions do include espresso or brewed coffee for flavor. Instead, coffee cake is traditionally a tender, moist cake with a sweet crumb topping, often speckled with cinnamon and nuts. It’s meant to be a little crumbly, a little buttery, and totally comforting.

Today, we’re diving into a recipe that’s straightforward, uses self-rising flour for simplicity, and promises a moist, tender crumb with a perfectly spiced cinnamon swirl. Whether you’re a baking newbie or a seasoned pro looking for a new twist, this recipe is going to be your new favorite!

Coffee Cake With Self Rising Flour Recipe

Before we get our hands floury, let me paint you a picture of this recipe’s charm:

• Quick prep: Thanks to self-rising flour, no need to measure extra leavening agents.
• Fluffy, tender crumb: The self-rising flour keeps the cake light but sturdy enough to hold that gorgeous cinnamon swirl.
• Sweet crumb topping: That buttery cinnamon streusel that practically melts in your mouth.
• Perfectly balanced sweetness: Not too sugary, just right for pairing with your coffee or tea.

Ready to bake? Let’s start with the ingredients!

Ingredients Needed

You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how pantry-friendly this recipe is. Here’s what you need for the cake and the crumb topping:

For The Cake

• 2 cups self-rising flour – The star of the show, making this recipe so easy.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – For just the right sweetness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture.
• 2 large eggs – Bind everything together.
• 1 cup whole milk – Keeps the crumb tender and moist.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Because flavor matters!

For The Cinnamon Swirl & Crumb Topping

• 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark) – Deep, molasses-y sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – The aromatic spice that defines coffee cake.
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed – To create that irresistible crumbly texture.
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional) – Walnuts or pecans work beautifully here for crunch.

How To Make Coffee Cake With Self Rising Flour

Alright, here’s the step-by-step magic of turning simple ingredients into a coffee cake that’ll make your kitchen smell like heaven:

1. Preheat & prep: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch square baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix dry ingredients: Whisk together the self-rising flour and sugar in a large bowl to combine.
3. Cream butter and eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry: Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Stir just until combined – be careful not to overmix, or you’ll toughen the cake.
5. Prepare the cinnamon swirl: Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

6. Assemble The Layers

   • Pour half the batter into the pan and spread evenly.
   • Sprinkle half the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter.
   • Add the rest of the batter on top and spread gently.
   • Finish by sprinkling the remaining cinnamon sugar over the top.
7. Make the crumb topping: Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut the cold butter into the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts mixture until you get coarse crumbs.
8. Top it off: Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the cake.
9. Bake: Pop it in the oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool & serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the cake set and makes serving easier.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Let’s nerd out for a minute because understanding why these ingredients work can totally elevate your baking game.

• Self-rising flour: This is basically all-purpose flour already mixed with baking powder and salt. It creates the perfect lift and crumb without extra fuss. Great for quick recipes like this.
• Butter: It’s a fat that coats flour proteins, reducing gluten formation, which results in a tender crumb. Using softened butter makes it easier to cream with sugar, incorporating air for fluffiness.
• Eggs: Provide structure and moisture. The proteins coagulate during baking, holding the cake together.
• Milk: Hydrates dry ingredients, dissolves sugar and salt, and adds fat and protein, contributing to tenderness.
• Brown sugar in the swirl and topping: Contains molasses, which adds moisture and a deeper flavor than plain white sugar.
• Cinnamon: It’s not just about flavor; cinnamon has compounds that complement the sweetness and provide warmth, enhancing the overall sensory experience.

Expert Tips

I’ve baked many coffee cakes over the years, so here’s the lowdown to get yours absolutely perfect:

• Don’t overmix the batter! Once you add flour, mix just enough to combine. Overmixing activates gluten, making your cake dense.
• Use cold butter for the crumb topping: This helps create that perfect crumbly texture that doesn’t melt into the cake.
• Toast your nuts lightly: This brings out their oils and boosts flavor.
• Let it cool: Don’t rush to slice it straight from the oven; cooling helps the cake finish baking internally and prevents crumbling.
• Make it a day ahead: Coffee cake often tastes better the next day after the flavors meld.
• Swap milk with buttermilk or yogurt: For extra moistness and a slight tang that balances sweetness.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here’s how to tweak this classic coffee cake to suit your mood or pantry:

• Add fresh fruit: Blueberries, raspberries, or diced apples folded into the batter bring a fresh twist.
• Use different spices: Nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice can add complexity.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a self-rising gluten-free flour blend.
• Swap nuts for seeds: Pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
• Drizzle glaze: A simple powdered sugar glaze with lemon juice or vanilla on top adds elegance.
• Add coffee flavor: Replace some milk with cooled strong brewed coffee or espresso for a coffee-infused cake.
• Make it vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.

Final Words

Coffee cake with self-rising flour is one of those delightful recipes that balances simplicity and elegance effortlessly. It’s a comforting slice of sweetness that’s just right for slow mornings, busy brunches, or anytime you want a little homemade indulgence.

From the fluffy crumb to that addictive cinnamon swirl and crunchy topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time. Plus, the self-rising flour shortcut makes it incredibly approachable – no stress, just delicious results.

So, grab your mixing bowls, put on some tunes, and let the warm, cinnamon-scented magic unfold in your kitchen!

FAQs

Can I Use Self-rising Flour For Coffee Cake?

Yes, self-rising flour can be used for coffee cake. It simplifies the recipe by eliminating the need for separate baking powder or baking soda since self-rising flour already contains these leavening agents.

Do I Need To Adjust The Recipe When Using Self-rising Flour?

When using self-rising flour, there is no need to add additional leavening agents like baking powder or soda. However, you should reduce the salt slightly since self-rising flour contains some salt.

Can I Substitute All-purpose Flour For Self-rising Flour In Coffee Cake?

If you’re substituting all-purpose flour, you’ll need to add baking powder and salt to the recipe to mimic the effect of self-rising flour. Typically, add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt for each cup of all-purpose flour.

What Are The Benefits Of Using Self-rising Flour In Coffee Cake?

Using self-rising flour simplifies the process by combining the flour, baking powder, and salt into one ingredient. It provides a lighter, fluffier texture to the coffee cake and reduces the number of ingredients needed.

What Other Ingredients Do I Need For A Coffee Cake With Self-rising Flour?

In addition to self-rising flour, you’ll need sugar, butter, eggs, milk (or buttermilk for a tangy flavor), vanilla extract, and optionally, spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for flavoring.

Can I Add Fruit To My Coffee Cake With Self-rising Flour?

Yes, adding fruit like blueberries, apples, or strawberries can enhance the flavor of your coffee cake. Just fold the fruit into the batter gently to avoid crushing it, and ensure the added moisture doesn’t affect the cake’s structure.

How Can I Make My Coffee Cake With Self-rising Flour More Moist?

To make your coffee cake more moist, you can add a bit of sour cream, yogurt, or buttermilk to the batter. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake.

What Temperature Should I Bake A Coffee Cake With Self-rising Flour?

Typically, coffee cakes bake at around 350°F (175°C). However, check your specific recipe for exact temperature and baking times, as they can vary based on the size and thickness of the cake.

How Long Should I Bake A Coffee Cake With Self-rising Flour?

The baking time generally ranges from 25 to 40 minutes, depending on the size of the cake and the recipe. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when the cake is done.

Can I Freeze Coffee Cake Made With Self-rising Flour?

Yes, coffee cake made with self-rising flour can be frozen. Allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.