When the aroma of freshly baked sour cream coffee cake wafts through the air, it’s like a warm hug for your senses. The buttery crumb, rich and moist, dances with hints of vanilla and cinnamon, making it impossible to resist. You might even find yourself doing a little happy dance in the kitchen as you anticipate that first delicious bite.
Remember those cozy Sunday mornings when you’d gather around the table with family, laughter ringing out as you sipped coffee? That’s the magic this sour cream coffee cake brings to any occasion. Whether it’s a brunch gathering or simply a Tuesday craving, this cake delivers comfort and joy with every slice.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This sour cream coffee cake is easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros
- Its rich flavor profile combines the tanginess of sour cream with sweet undertones, creating a delightful balance
- The cake’s golden-brown top is beautifully speckled with a sugary cinnamon swirl that will catch anyone’s eye
- This versatile dessert is perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon treat with your favorite cup of coffee
You won’t believe how my friends reacted when I surprised them with this coffee cake at a recent brunch. Their eyes lit up as they took their first bites—priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture; it helps create that perfect crumb.
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Sour Cream: The star ingredient! Choose full-fat sour cream for extra moisture and richness.
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Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is essential here; adjust based on your taste preference.
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Baking Powder: This will give our cake that delightful rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal fluffiness.
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Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth; don’t skip this spice—it’s what makes it cozy!
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Eggs: Large eggs work best; they help bind everything together beautifully.
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Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter to ensure easy mixing and a rich flavor.
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Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances flavor; artificial versions just won’t cut it!
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Powdered Sugar (for glaze): A touch of sweetness on top elevates the whole experience—totally worth it!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). I recommend greasing a 9-inch round cake pan or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Mixing Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and cinnamon until well combined. This step ensures even distribution of leavening agents throughout the batter.
Creaming Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. A stand mixer works wonders here if you have one!
Add Eggs and Sour Cream: Mix in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then fold in the sour cream along with vanilla extract until smooth; don’t overmix!
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined—this keeps our cake tender.
Create Your Swirl: In a small bowl, mix additional sugar with cinnamon to create your filling layer. You’ll sprinkle half of this mixture onto half of the batter in the pan for that sweet surprise!
Bake Until Perfect: Pour half of your batter into the prepared pan followed by half of your cinnamon-sugar mix. Repeat layers! Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Once baked, let cool before glazing! Mix powdered sugar with enough milk to create a drizzle consistency; then pour over cooled cake for that final touch.
Now grab yourself a slice (or two) while it’s still warm because trust me—you’ll want to savor every bite! Enjoy your homemade sour cream coffee cake!
You Must Know
- This sour cream coffee cake is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful breakfast treat!
- A hint of cinnamon and the moist texture will remind you of cozy mornings
- Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in a flash while your coffee brews
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming the butter and sugar, then gradually add eggs and sour cream. Mix dry ingredients separately before combining for even distribution. This sequence ensures a fluffy cake with no lumps, setting you up for success.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out some sour cream for Greek yogurt or add chocolate chips for extra indulgence. You can also sprinkle nuts or fruit on top to create your own signature cake that reflects your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover sour cream coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds, bringing back that fresh-baked warmth.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, allow the cake to cool completely before slicing; it enhances sweetness
- Always measure flour accurately using the spoon-and-level method to avoid a dense texture
- Remember, fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste!
Baking this sour cream coffee cake reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen filled with laughter and sweet aromas. She always insisted that baking brings people together, and I couldn’t agree more!
FAQ
Can I use low-fat sour cream?
Yes, low-fat sour cream works well without compromising much on flavor and moisture.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
Can I freeze sour cream coffee cake?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to three months.
Sour Cream Coffee Cake
Savor the delightful taste of homemade sour cream coffee cake, a perfect companion for your morning coffee or afternoon tea. This rich and moist cake features a buttery crumb with hints of vanilla and cinnamon, creating an irresistible treat that evokes cozy memories of family gatherings. Easy to prepare and visually stunning with its sugary cinnamon swirl, this cake is bound to impress friends and family alike. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a weekday craving, each slice promises comfort and joy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and cinnamon; set aside.
- In another bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until fluffy (3-4 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients without overmixing.
- Prepare the cinnamon swirl by mixing additional sugar with cinnamon; layer it within the batter.
- Pour batter into the pan, bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool before glazing with powdered sugar mixed with milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
