Coffee Cake with Coffee

Are you ready for a delightful bake that pairs perfectly with your morning brew? This Coffee Cake with Coffee is not just a cake; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings together the rich essence of coffee and the sweet, comforting texture of cake. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this delightful treat, making it ideal for brunch gatherings, cozy afternoons, or even as a simple indulgence for yourself. Let’s dive into the details of this scrumptious recipe that will leave your taste buds dancing!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Coffee Cake with Coffee is a keeper for numerous reasons. First and foremost, it combines the deep, robust flavor of coffee with the sweetness of cake, creating a harmonious balance that is hard to resist. The cake is soft and moist, with a crumbly topping that gives it the perfect texture. This recipe is incredibly versatile; you can enjoy it plain, or you can add nuts or chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor. Plus, it’s simple enough for a beginner baker yet impressive enough to wow your guests.

What’s in the Bowl

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this Coffee Cake with Coffee so special:

• 2 tablespoons (25g) packed brown sugar – Adds a rich sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Provides warmth and spice.
• 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder – Intensifies the coffee flavor (see note).
• 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour – Helps to bind the streusel topping.
• 1 cup (186g) all-purpose flour – The base of the cake.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – Gives the cake its lift.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1/2 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and moisture.
• 1 cup (150g) packed brown sugar – Sweetens the cake and adds a nice texture.
• 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a hint of sweetness and aroma.
• 1/2 cup milk – Keeps the cake moist.
• 1/2 cup strongly brewed coffee or espresso, cooled – Infuses the cake with coffee flavor (see note).
• 1/2 cup (150g) packed brown sugar – For the streusel topping.
• 1/3 cup (93g) all-purpose flour – Adds structure to the topping.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Flavors the streusel topping.
• 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder – Enhances the coffee flavor in the topping.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (57g), melted and slightly cooled – Binds the streusel together.
• 1/2 cup (57g) powdered sugar – For the glaze.
• 1-2 tablespoons strongly brewed coffee or espresso, cooled – To thin out the glaze.

Recommended Tools

To make the process smoother, here are some tools that will come in handy:

• Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
• Whisk – To mix dry ingredients and wet ingredients thoroughly.
• 9-inch round cake pan – The perfect size for this cake.
• Rubber spatula – For scraping down the sides of bowls.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key!
• Cooling rack – To cool the cake evenly.

Coffee Cake with Coffee: Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s get started on creating this delightful Coffee Cake with Coffee!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Topping

In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder, and 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Set this bowl aside as well.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, 1 cup packed brown sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 cup milk, and 1/2 cup cooled brewed coffee. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 6: Layer the Cake

Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan. Sprinkle half of the topping mixture over the batter. Then, pour the remaining batter on top, and finish with the rest of the streusel topping.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

While the cake cools, make the glaze by whisking together 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1-2 tablespoons cooled brewed coffee until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed.

Step 10: Drizzle and Serve

Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Slice and enjoy your delicious Coffee Cake with Coffee!

Substitutions by Diet

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, consider these substitutions:

• Dairy-free: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.
• Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
• Lower sugar: Reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a sugar substitute suitable for baking.
• Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based butter and milk.

Problems & Prevention

Here are some common problems you might encounter while making this Coffee Cake with Coffee and how to prevent them:

• Cake is too dense: Ensure you’re not overmixing the batter, as this can lead to a tough texture.
• Streusel topping sinks: Make sure the batter is thick enough to hold the streusel. You can also add the streusel topping before the first layer of batter.
• Over-baking: Keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes of baking. Use a toothpick to check for doneness.
• Glaze is too thick: Add a little more coffee to achieve the desired consistency.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

To save time, you can prepare certain components of your Coffee Cake with Coffee in advance:

• Make the batter: You can prepare the batter the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just bring it to room temperature before baking.
• Prepare the streusel: Mix the streusel topping ingredients and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to use them.
• Bake and freeze: Bake the cake and freeze it for up to three months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why is my coffee cake too dry?

If your coffee cake is dry, it may have been overbaked or you may not have used enough moisture in the batter. Ensure you follow the ingredient measurements accurately and keep an eye on baking time.

Can I use decaf coffee in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to use decaffeinated coffee if you prefer a caffeine-free option. The flavor will still be delicious.

What can I do if my streusel topping is too crumbly?

If your streusel is too crumbly and not clumping together, try adding a tiny bit more melted butter until it holds together better.

Can I add nuts or chocolate to the cake?

Yes! Feel free to fold in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for added texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the baking time.

Cook This Next

If you enjoyed this Coffee Cake with Coffee, here are some other delicious recipes to try:

• Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips – Moist and flavorful, this banana bread will be a hit!
• Classic Blueberry Muffins – Perfect for breakfast or a snack, bursting with fresh blueberries.
• Lemon Drizzle Cake – A zesty treat that pairs wonderfully with tea.
• Chocolate Chip Cookies – A timeless classic that everyone loves.

Final Bite

This Coffee Cake with Coffee is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to indulge in your love for coffee while enjoying a sweet treat. The combination of flavors, textures, and the aroma that fills your kitchen make this cake an experience in itself. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, it’s sure to be a hit. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking!

The joy of baking is not just in the final product but in the process itself. With each step, you create not only a delicious Coffee Cake with Coffee but also memories that will last a lifetime. Happy baking!