Entenmann’s Crumb Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Let’s talk about something cozy, shall we? Picture this: a warm slice of coffee cake, buttery soft, topped with a generous mountain of sweet, cinnamony crumbs. Sound familiar? If you’ve ever found yourself reaching for a slice of Entenmann’s classic Crumb Coffee Cake from the grocery store (hello, that iconic white and blue box!), then you know the magic I’m talking about. It’s nostalgic. It’s comforting. And it pairs with coffee better than most friends do.

But what if I told you that you could recreate that iconic flavor – and dare I say, even improve on it – in your own kitchen? Yep, we’re about to dive deep into the crumbly wonderland of homemade Entenmann’s-style coffee cake. This isn’t just a recipe, folks – this is a recreation mission for your tastebuds.

So, tie that apron, preheat your oven, and let’s turn your kitchen into a bakery!

Entenmann’s Crumb Coffee Cake Recipe

This copycat recipe is soft, tender, buttery – with just the right level of moisture – and crowned with that classic brown sugar cinnamon crumble that nearly steals the show. The goal here isn’t to reinvent the wheel but to perfect it. And yes, it delivers.

We’re making two parts here:

• A fluffy, golden-yellow cake base
• A thick, irresistible crumb topping that’s almost half the height of the cake (yes, please)

This recipe yields one 9×13-inch cake – perfect for sharing, or not. No judgment here.

Ingredients Needed

This isn’t a recipe that plays hard to get. Most ingredients are pantry staples, but let’s walk through them like we’re shopping together:

For The Cake Base

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted for extra softness)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream (don’t skip this – it’s the moisture magic!)

For The Crumb Topping

• 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1½ tbsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter (melted)
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour (yes, it’s a lot – trust the process!)

Optional Finishing Touch

• Powdered sugar for dusting (it gives that classic store-bought look)

How To Make Entenmann’s Crumb Coffee Cake

Okay, let’s walk through this process together like we’re baking side-by-side – spatulas in hand and good music playing.

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. We want easy release and neat slices!

Step 2: Make The Crumb Topping First (Yes, First!)

• In a large bowl, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
• Pour in the melted butter. Stir until it’s glossy and smooth.
• Add flour gradually and mix with a fork or your fingers. It should form large clumps – not a paste. You want those signature chunky crumbs!

Pro tip: Let this sit while you make the batter. It firms up and makes chunkier topping.

Step 3: Make The Cake Batter

• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
• In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
• Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
• Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Add the dry ingredients alternately with the sour cream, starting and ending with flour. Don’t overmix – just combine until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble The Cake

• Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan.
• Sprinkle that glorious crumb topping over the batter. Don’t press it down – just let it rest gently on top.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Cool the cake completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 6: Dust & Serve

• Once cooled, dust lightly with powdered sugar for that bakery-perfect look.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Let’s geek out for a second – because what makes this cake so good isn’t just the love, but the science.

• Sour Cream: Adds moisture and richness without thinning the batter. Its acidity also helps tenderize the crumb.
• Melted Butter in Crumb Topping: Instead of cold butter (like in streusel), melted butter gives that dense, satisfying crumble texture that clumps together perfectly.
• Brown Sugar: Gives the crumb topping its caramel notes and soft texture. The molasses content is key!
• High Flour Ratio in Topping: This helps soak up the butter, ensuring the topping is thick, not greasy or melty.

Expert Tips

A few little tricks to take your cake from great to unforgettable:

• Don’t overmix the batter: A few lumps are fine. Overmixing develops gluten, which makes for a tougher crumb.
• Crumbs too soft? Pop the topping mixture in the fridge while prepping the batter to firm it up before sprinkling.
• Want an even thicker topping? You can go up to 3 cups of flour in the crumb if you’re living dangerously deliciously.
• For neater slices: Let the cake cool fully before cutting – the crumb topping sets and doesn’t slide off.

Recipe Variations

Let’s shake things up a bit, shall we? Here’s how you can personalize your cake without sacrificing that Entenmann’s vibe.

• Blueberry Crumb Cake: Add 1½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter.
• Cinnamon Swirl Version: Swirl a mixture of cinnamon, brown sugar, and a touch of butter into the middle of the batter before adding crumbs.
• Mini Cakes: Use a muffin tin and reduce bake time to 20-25 minutes.
• Chocolate Crumb Topping: Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to the topping mix and a handful of mini chocolate chips. Boom: mocha crumb cake!
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend (like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur) and check crumb texture as you go.

Final Words

There’s something uniquely comforting about crumb coffee cake. Maybe it’s the softness of the sponge, the satisfying resistance of those brown sugar crumbles, or the way it perfectly accompanies a quiet morning cup of coffee (or tea, if that’s your thing – no judgment).

This recipe isn’t just about mimicking Entenmann’s – it’s about recreating those feels. The kind of cake that makes you stop mid-bite and go, ’Whoa. This tastes like home.’

FAQs

What Is The Secret To Making Entenmann’s Crumb Coffee Cake Taste Like The Original?

The key to replicating Entenmann’s Crumb Coffee Cake is to focus on creating a moist, tender cake base and a generous amount of crumb topping. The combination of sour cream and butter in the batter helps achieve the desired moisture and flavor, while the crumb topping should be buttery and thick, creating a contrast in texture.

Can I Substitute Ingredients In Entenmann’s Crumb Coffee Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute some ingredients. For example, you can use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream, or swap all-purpose flour with cake flour for a lighter texture. However, these substitutions may slightly alter the flavor and texture, so it’s best to experiment based on your preferences.

How Can I Make The Crumb Topping For Entenmann’s Crumb Coffee Cake Extra Crunchy?

To make the crumb topping extra crunchy, use a combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar. Adding a bit of cinnamon and a pinch of salt to the topping will also enhance its flavor. Additionally, baking the cake at a slightly lower temperature (around 325°F) ensures the crumbs get crisp without burning.

Can I Freeze Entenmann’s Crumb Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can freeze Entenmann’s Crumb Coffee Cake. After baking, allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

What Is The Best Way To Store Entenmann’s Crumb Coffee Cake?

Store your Entenmann’s Crumb Coffee Cake at room temperature in an airtight container to keep it moist for up to 4 days. If you want it to last longer, consider refrigerating it, though this may slightly change the texture of the crumb topping.

Can I Make Entenmann’s Crumb Coffee Cake Without Eggs?

Yes, you can make a vegan version of the cake by substituting eggs with egg replacers such as flaxseed meal, applesauce, or a commercial egg replacer. This will help maintain the structure of the cake, though the flavor may vary slightly.

How Do I Know When My Entenmann’s Crumb Coffee Cake Is Done Baking?

To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs clinging to it, the cake is ready. If the toothpick comes out wet, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes and test again.

What Size Pan Should I Use For Entenmann’s Crumb Coffee Cake?

For the traditional Entenmann’s Crumb Coffee Cake recipe, a 9×9-inch square pan or a 10-inch round cake pan works best. The pan size ensures that the cake has enough room to rise while allowing for a generous crumb topping.

How Can I Add A Twist To The Classic Entenmann’s Crumb Coffee Cake Recipe?

To add a twist, try incorporating ingredients like fresh berries (blueberries or raspberries), nuts (such as chopped pecans or walnuts), or a swirl of cinnamon into the batter before baking. These additions provide extra flavor and texture while keeping the cake’s original appeal.

Can I Make Entenmann’s Crumb Coffee Cake Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of the coffee cake by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to maintain the texture. Keep in mind that gluten-free baked goods may require slight adjustments in baking time and moisture.