Delicious Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe with Crumb Topping

 

Who Doesn't Love a Delicious Coffee Cake?

Who doesn't enjoy a delicious coffee cake? It's a fantastic treat for any occasion, like a family brunch or a midnight snack. Picture a coffee cake featuring a creamy cheese filling, a crumb topping, and the perfect level of sweetness. This cake merges the best aspects of coffee cake, cream cheese crumb cake, and coffee cake cheesecake, making it one of my favorite baked goods. I love this recipe for its simplicity and deliciousness!

Ingredients for Success

To make the ultimate cream cheese coffee cake, you’ll need:

For the Cake Batter:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Crumb Topping:

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ tsp cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Tools You’ll Need

Gather these tools to make your baking seamless:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Offset spatula
• 9-inch round or square cake pans
• Plastic wrap for storage
• Airtight container
• Measuring cup

Preparing Your Cake Pans

Before you start, grease your cake pans and line them with parchment paper. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick and releases easily after baking.

Making the Crumb Topping

Combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter using a fork or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.

Preparing the Cake Batter

1. Cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with sour cream, until the batter is smooth.

Creating the Cream Cheese Layer

In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This layer is the heart of the coffee cake.

Assembling the Layers

1. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared cake pans.
2. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the batter using an offset spatula.
3. Pour the remaining cake batter on top.
4. Sprinkle the streusel topping generously over the entire cake.

Baking to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes to 50 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cooling the Cake

Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This step ensures the layers set properly.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serve the cake at room temperature for the best flavor. You can also enjoy it with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat! Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week. Wrap the cake in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture.

Variations and Add-Ons

• Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the crumb topping.
• Use lemon juice or almond extract instead of vanilla for a tangier flavor or a nutty twist.
• Swap the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Dry Cake? Check your baking time and ensure accurate measurements.
• Sinking Crumb Topping? Chill the topping before sprinkling it on the batter.
• Runny Cream Cheese Layer? Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature and not over-mixed.

Why Room Temperature Ingredients Matter

Room temperature ingredients mix more evenly, creating a smoother batter and ensuring even baking. Cold ingredients can lead to lumpy batters and uneven textures.

 Recipe Card

Here's a quick reference to your recipe:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 to 50 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
• Servings: Varies based on portion size

Enjoy your baking adventure and remember to toggle the table of contents for easy navigation!

 

FAQs About Coffee Cakes

1. Can I freeze cream cheese coffee cake?

Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

2. Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the filling?

Yes, but the texture may be less creamy.

3. How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

4. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

5. Why did my crumb top sink?

It might not have been chilled enough or was pressed too hard into the batter.

 

Final Thoughts

This cream cheese coffee cake is a delightful treat that’s worth every step. Whether it’s for a special occasion or an ordinary day, this cake will elevate your baking game. So, what are you waiting for? Jump to the recipe and start baking your masterpiece today!