Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake Loaf

There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of warm spices and a soft, moist cake. Nothing screams cozy quite like a slice of Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake Loaf, paired perfectly with your morning coffee or tea. This delightful loaf is not only easy to make, but it also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone gathering around to grab a slice. The combination of cinnamon and pecans provides a wonderful crunch and depth of flavor that takes this coffee cake to the next level.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet snack, this Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake Loaf is bound to become a new favorite in your household. Let’s get started on making this delightful treat!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake Loaf is a must-try for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to whip up with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Secondly, it’s versatile—make it for a special occasion, or enjoy a slice during a quiet afternoon at home. Finally, the flavor combination of cinnamon and pecans creates a sweet and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with coffee. Once you try it, you will understand why it’s a hit!

Ingredients

To create this delightful loaf, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar, divided
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 3 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
• 1 ¼ teaspoons salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk (see note)
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• ½ cup pecans, finely chopped

How To Make Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake Loaf

Follow these steps to create your Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake Loaf.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter, and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, baking powder, 3 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs. Then add buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and almond extract, whisking until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are small lumps.

Step 5: Prepare Pecan Filling

In a small bowl, mix together the remaining ¼ cup of granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and the finely chopped pecans.

Step 6: Layer the Mixtures

Spoon half of the cake batter into the prepared loaf pan. Evenly sprinkle the pecan filling over the batter. Then, pour the remaining batter on top, smoothing it out gently.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it after 45 minutes, as oven temperatures can vary.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve with your favorite hot beverage.

Expert Tips

• Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and a fluffier texture.
• If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
• For added flavor, you can toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before adding them to the batter.
• Store any leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze slices for longer storage.

Variations and Customizations

• Replace pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• Add chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet twist.
• Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added texture and flavor.
• Try using different spices like nutmeg or ginger to mix up the flavor profile.

How to Store Leftovers

To store your Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake Loaf, ensure it is completely cooled before placing it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up.

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a lighter result.

What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?

If you are looking for an egg substitute, you can use a flaxseed meal mixture. Combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes until thickened, and then add it to your wet ingredients.

Can I make this as a cake instead of a loaf?

Absolutely! This batter works well in a round cake pan. Just adjust the baking time to about 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Is this coffee cake suitable for breakfast?

Definitely! Coffee cake is traditionally enjoyed at breakfast or brunch. Its perfect pairings with coffee make it an excellent start to your day or a delightful afternoon treat.

Conclusion

Baking a Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake Loaf is a rewarding experience that combines simple ingredients with comforting flavors to create a delightful treat. Whether you decide to enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee in the morning or serve it as an afternoon snack for friends, this loaf is sure to impress. With the expert tips, variations, and the ability to customize, you can make this recipe your own. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in this warm, spiced, and nutty delight. Happy baking!