Entenmann’s Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Oh, coffee cake – that glorious, soft, buttery, crumbly treat that somehow perfectly complements your morning cup of joe or afternoon tea. But not just any coffee cake. We’re talking about Entenmann’s Coffee Cake, a classic bakery staple beloved by many for decades. It’s that sweet, comforting slice of heaven with a moist, tender crumb, a heavenly cinnamon-sugar swirl, and a buttery streusel topping that crumbles in your mouth.

Why is Entenmann’s Coffee Cake so iconic? Because it strikes the perfect balance of flavor and texture. It’s not too sweet, not too dense, and manages to be indulgent without feeling heavy. Plus, it’s got this nostalgic vibe that reminds many people of cozy mornings, weekend brunches, and gatherings with family and friends.

If you’ve ever found yourself daydreaming about biting into a piece of that coffee cake, this is your moment. We’re going to break down everything you need to know – the ingredients, the science behind the magic, step-by-step instructions, and even ways to tweak it to make it your own. So, grab your apron, and let’s bake a cake that’ll rival Entenmann’s itself!

Entenmann’s Coffee Cake Recipe

Here’s the scoop: this recipe aims to recreate that unmistakable Entenmann’s coffee cake experience right in your own kitchen. The cake is all about layers of flavor and texture, featuring:

• A soft, buttery cake base: moist but not soggy, tender but sturdy.
• A rich cinnamon-sugar swirl: that warm, spicy sweet layer that runs through the middle.
• A crunchy, buttery streusel topping: with that perfect crumbly texture.
• Optional glaze for a shiny, sweet finish that’s totally irresistible.

The beauty of this recipe is that it uses everyday pantry ingredients but combines them in a way that feels special and bakery-worthy.

Ingredients Needed

Let’s talk ingredients. Here’s what you’ll want to gather to make this coffee cake sing:

Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour – the backbone of the cake, providing structure.
• Granulated sugar – for sweetness in the cake batter.
• Brown sugar – adds moisture and a deeper caramel flavor, especially in the streusel and swirl.
• Baking powder – the leavening agent that gives the cake its rise.
• Salt – a tiny pinch to balance all the sweetness.

Wet Ingredients

• Unsalted butter – provides richness and moisture, plus that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Eggs – for binding and tenderness.
• Whole milk or sour cream – sour cream adds tang and moistness, but milk works fine if you don’t have sour cream.
• Vanilla extract – brings all the flavors together with its warm, sweet aroma.

For The Cinnamon Swirl

• Ground cinnamon – the star spice.
• Brown sugar – again, for that deep caramel sweetness.

For The Streusel Topping

• Cold unsalted butter – crucial for that crumbly texture.
• Brown sugar – for sweetness and stickiness.
• All-purpose flour – to bind the topping.
• Ground cinnamon – to echo the swirl flavor.

Optional:

• Powdered sugar glaze – for drizzling on top after baking to add extra sweetness and a beautiful finish.

How To Make Entenmann’s Coffee Cake

Here’s the step-by-step, with plenty of detail so you don’t miss a thing:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the streusel topping first: In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
3. Prepare the cinnamon swirl: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. This will layer inside the cake.

4. Make The Cake Batter

   • Cream softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes with a mixer).
   • Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
   • Alternate adding dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt) and milk/sour cream, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined-don’t overmix or the cake will be tough.

5. Assemble The Cake

   • Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan.
   • Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar swirl evenly over this layer.
   • Top with the remaining batter, spreading it out carefully.
   • Finally, sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 35-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The streusel should be golden and crisp.
7. Cool the cake in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
8. Optional glaze: Whisk powdered sugar with a splash of milk or cream until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cake.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

This is where things get fascinating. Why does this cake come out so amazing? Let’s peek behind the scenes:

• Butter: When creamed with sugar, butter traps air, which helps the cake rise and develop that soft, tender crumb.
• Baking powder: Reacts with moisture and heat to create carbon dioxide bubbles, making the cake rise and become fluffy.
• Brown sugar in the swirl and streusel: It contains molasses, which adds moisture and a rich caramel flavor, giving the cake a moist texture and depth.
• Sour cream or whole milk: The acidity in sour cream reacts with baking powder to help the cake rise even more and tenderize the gluten, making the crumb softer.
• Cinnamon: Beyond flavor, cinnamon has natural oils that enhance aroma and make the cake smell irresistibly warm and inviting.
• Cold butter in streusel: Helps create a crumbly, flaky topping rather than a greasy mess because it melts slowly in the oven.

Every ingredient plays a crucial role, balancing texture, flavor, and appearance.

Expert Tips

Ready to elevate your coffee cake game? Here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out bakery-quality:

• Don’t overmix the batter – mix just until combined. Overmixing develops gluten, making the cake dense and tough.
• Use room temperature butter and eggs – helps them incorporate better, resulting in a smoother batter and lighter cake.
• Chill the streusel topping before baking – cold butter in the streusel makes it crispier and prevents it from melting into the cake.
• Evenly layer the cinnamon sugar swirl – try to spread it carefully to get a distinct swirl instead of it mixing with the batter.
• Test for doneness with a toothpick – but remember, the center might be slightly moist from the cinnamon swirl. Aim for mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
• Let the cake cool before glazing – glaze will melt into the cake if it’s too warm, losing that beautiful drizzle effect.
• Use parchment paper in the pan – makes for easy cleanup and easier removal of the cake.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun twists to customize your Entenmann’s coffee cake:

• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts mixed into the streusel or sprinkled on top add a delightful crunch.
• Fruit versions: Fold in fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries into the batter for a fruity burst.
• Chocolate lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter or sprinkle on top of the swirl.
• Gluten-free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend; add a teaspoon of xanthan gum for structure.
• Spiced up: Add nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon swirl for an extra aromatic touch.
• Maple glaze: Replace the powdered sugar glaze with a simple maple syrup drizzle for a richer flavor.
• Vegan: Use vegan butter and a flaxseed egg substitute, along with plant-based milk for a delicious plant-powered treat.

Final Words

Making Entenmann’s Coffee Cake from scratch is not just about baking – it’s about recreating that nostalgic, comforting experience with your own hands. The aroma that fills your kitchen, the anticipation as it bakes, and finally, that first melt-in-your-mouth bite – it’s pure joy. This recipe is accessible, uses simple ingredients, and delivers on all the sensory levels you want in a coffee cake.

Don’t rush it. Take your time layering the swirl and topping. Celebrate the process, and don’t be afraid to experiment with those variations. Every batch is a new opportunity to make this cake truly yours.

FAQs

What Is Entenmann’s Coffee Cake Recipe?

Entenmann’s coffee cake recipe is a popular baked good that consists of a moist, cinnamon-infused cake with a crumbly streusel topping. The recipe often includes ingredients like butter, sugar, flour, eggs, and sour cream, with a swirl of cinnamon sugar throughout the batter.

How Can I Recreate Entenmann’s Coffee Cake At Home?

To recreate Entenmann’s coffee cake at home, you’ll need basic ingredients like butter, flour, sugar, eggs, baking powder, and sour cream. The key is to add a cinnamon-sugar swirl to the batter and a crumbly topping made of butter, sugar, and flour. Follow a step-by-step guide to ensure you get the perfect balance of moist cake and crunchy streusel.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Flour In The Entenmann’s Coffee Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of flour, though all-purpose flour is typically recommended for the best texture. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, you can use gluten-free all-purpose flour, but this may slightly alter the texture of the cake.

Is Sour Cream Essential In Entenmann’s Coffee Cake Recipe?

Sour cream plays a crucial role in making the coffee cake moist and tender. While you can substitute with buttermilk or yogurt if necessary, sour cream will provide the best texture and flavor for this cake.

Can I Add Nuts To The Entenmann’s Coffee Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can add chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel topping for added texture and flavor. Just make sure to chop the nuts evenly and fold them into the batter or topping as desired.

How Do I Make The Crumbly Streusel Topping For Entenmann’s Coffee Cake?

To make the crumbly streusel topping, combine cold butter with sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix the ingredients until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. This topping will bake up crispy and sweet.

Can I Freeze Entenmann’s Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can freeze Entenmann’s coffee cake. Allow the cake to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven.

What Is The Secret To A Moist Entenmann’s Coffee Cake?

The secret to a moist Entenmann’s coffee cake lies in using sour cream, which helps retain moisture. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter and ensure that your oven temperature is correct for even baking.

How Long Does It Take To Bake Entenmann’s Coffee Cake?

The baking time for Entenmann’s coffee cake is typically between 40 to 50 minutes at 350°F (175°C). The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I Make Entenmann’s Coffee Cake Without A Bundt Pan?

Yes, if you don’t have a bundt pan, you can use a 9×13-inch baking pan. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, as it may bake a bit faster in a shallower pan.