Merks Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Hey there, fellow dessert lover! If you’ve ever found yourself craving something that perfectly marries the comforting warmth of coffee with the sweet indulgence of cake, you’re in for a treat. Enter Merks Coffee Cake-a classic, luscious dessert that’s been stealing hearts and taste buds for generations.

What makes this coffee cake stand out? It’s not just the tender crumb or the buttery cinnamon streusel topping. It’s the experience-the cozy aroma that fills your kitchen, the satisfying crunch of the topping contrasted with the soft, melt-in-your-mouth cake beneath, and the way it pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea.

Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro looking for a crowd-pleaser, this recipe is your golden ticket. Ready to impress your friends, family, or simply treat yourself? Let’s get baking!

Merks Coffee Cake Recipe

Here’s the deal: Merks Coffee Cake is more than just a recipe-it’s a ritual. A harmonious blend of simple ingredients that come together to create magic. The cake is moist, tender, and sweet without being overwhelming, with a perfectly spiced crumb topping that adds texture and flavor. It’s the kind of cake you’ll want to make again and again.

• Fluffy yet dense enough to hold its shape
• Swirls of cinnamon and sugar throughout
• A crunchy, buttery streusel topping for contrast
• The perfect balance of sweetness and spice

Ingredients Needed

Before we jump into the baking, let’s gather everything we’ll need. The beauty here? These are pantry staples you probably already have!

For The Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The backbone of the cake, giving it structure.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetness without heaviness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened) – For richness and moisture.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds tanginess and makes the cake tender.
• 2 large eggs – The binding agents that hold everything together.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – A subtle flavor enhancer.
• 1 tsp baking powder – Helps the cake rise perfectly.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda – Works with sour cream to give lift.
• 1/4 tsp salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.

For The Streusel Topping

• 3/4 cup brown sugar – Adds deep molasses sweetness.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Creates that crumbly texture.
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional; walnuts or pecans are perfect) – For crunch.
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon – The soul of the coffee cake’s spice profile.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed) – To bind the topping and create those perfect crumbs.

How To Make Merks Coffee Cake

Alright, let’s roll up those sleeves and get to the fun part. This is where the magic happens:

1. Preheat & Prep

   • Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. Mix The Dry Ingredients

   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Make The Streusel

   • Combine brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nuts (if using) in a small bowl.
   • Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.

4. Prepare The Cake Batter

   • In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
   • Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
   • Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.

5. Layer & Top

   • Spread half the batter evenly in your pan.
   • Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter.
   • Spread the remaining batter gently over the streusel layer.
   • Finish by sprinkling the remaining streusel on top.

6. Bake

   • Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
   • Let it cool slightly before slicing.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Here’s where things get fascinating! Baking is really chemistry in disguise, and each ingredient plays a unique role:

• Sour Cream: This is a superstar in coffee cakes! Its acidity reacts with baking soda to create carbon dioxide bubbles, making the cake rise beautifully. Plus, it adds moisture and a subtle tang that keeps the cake from tasting too sweet or heavy.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Both are leavening agents but work differently. Baking powder contains both acid and base, activating twice (wet and heat), while baking soda needs an acid (like sour cream) to activate. Together, they give your cake a perfect lift.
• Butter: Adds flavor and richness, but also affects texture. Creaming butter with sugar incorporates air, giving your cake a light and fluffy crumb.
• Brown Sugar in Streusel: The molasses in brown sugar adds moisture and depth of flavor to the topping, plus it caramelizes in the oven for that irresistible crunch.

Expert Tips

Want to take your Merks Coffee Cake from delicious to legendary? Here’s the inside scoop:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure eggs, butter, and sour cream are at room temp to ensure even mixing and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense cake.
• Chill the Butter for Streusel: Cold butter creates that perfect crumbly topping, so don’t skip chilling it.
• Use Fresh Spices: Cinnamon loses potency over time, so fresh ground cinnamon will give you the best flavor punch.
• Add a Drizzle: After baking, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of milk or coffee can elevate the cake’s sweetness and presentation.

Recipe Variations

Because creativity is the spice of life, here are some delicious ways to customize your Merks Coffee Cake:

• Fruit Lover’s Delight: Add fresh blueberries, diced apples, or raspberries to the batter for a fruity surprise.
• Chocolate Chip Twist: Stir in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter for an extra sweet treat.
• Nut-Free Option: Skip nuts in the streusel or replace with toasted coconut flakes.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum for a similar texture.
• Pumpkin Spice: Add 1/2 cup pumpkin puree and swap sour cream with Greek yogurt. Increase cinnamon to 2 tsp and add nutmeg and cloves for a fall vibe.

Final Words

There you have it-a beautifully detailed, delicious Merks Coffee Cake recipe that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re enjoying it at breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon pick-me-up with your coffee, this cake is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Remember, the secret to a fantastic coffee cake lies in balance-the right amount of sweetness, spice, and texture. And with these detailed steps and tips, you’re well on your way to becoming a coffee cake connoisseur.

FAQs

What Is Merks Coffee Cake?

Merks coffee cake is a moist, cinnamon-infused cake with a buttery streusel topping. The recipe is popular for its rich flavor and tender texture, making it a favorite for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

How Do You Make The Streusel Topping For Merks Coffee Cake?

To make the streusel topping for Merks coffee cake, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. This topping is spread evenly over the batter before baking for a sweet, crunchy finish.

Can I Use Other Fruits In Merks Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can customize Merks coffee cake by adding fruits like blueberries, apples, or even bananas. These fruits complement the cinnamon flavor and add moisture to the cake. Simply fold them into the batter before baking.

What Type Of Flour Is Best For Making Merks Coffee Cake?

All-purpose flour is typically used in Merks coffee cake. It provides the right balance of structure and tenderness, making the cake soft yet sturdy enough to hold the streusel topping.

Can I Make Merks Coffee Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare Merks coffee cake the day before. Once baked, allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days.

Is Merks Coffee Cake Suitable For Freezing?

Yes, you can freeze Merks coffee cake. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature and reheat if desired.

What Type Of Pan Should I Use For Merks Coffee Cake?

A 9×9-inch square baking pan or a 10-inch round cake pan works best for Merks coffee cake. These sizes allow for an even rise and distribution of the streusel topping.

Can I Make Merks Coffee Cake Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of Merks coffee cake by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum to help with the cake’s structure.

How Do I Store Leftover Merks Coffee Cake?

To store leftover Merks coffee cake, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you need to keep it for longer, refrigerate it, though it may lose some of its moisture.

Can I Add Nuts To The Streusel Topping For Merks Coffee Cake?

Yes, adding chopped nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the streusel topping can enhance the flavor and texture of the coffee cake. Stir the nuts into the streusel mixture before sprinkling it on the batter.