Coffee Crumb Cake: 7 Irresistible Secrets to Delight

Name: Coffee Crumb Cake: 7 Irresistible Secrets to Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup sour cream; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 28, 2025

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Oh, let me tell you about my all-time favorite indulgence: Coffee Crumb Cake! This delightful treat is the perfect companion for your morning cup of coffee or an afternoon snack. Seriously, it’s so versatile! Whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a sweet dessert to share with friends, this cake never disappoints. I remember the first time I had it at my best friend’s house—her mom baked it every Sunday, filling the kitchen with the most irresistible aroma. The crumbly topping and soft, moist cake just melted in my mouth. I knew I had to learn the recipe! It’s become a staple in my home, bringing joy to my family just like it did for me back then. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find every excuse to whip it up!

Coffee Crumb Cake - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating that dreamy Coffee Crumb Cake! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your cake. Make sure to spoon and level it in your measuring cup for accuracy!
1 cup granulated sugar: This sweetener will help create that lovely balance with the crumb topping.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter is crucial here, so it creams beautifully with the sugar.
1 cup sour cream: This adds moisture and a subtle tang that elevates the flavor.
2 large eggs: Bring these to room temperature for even mixing!
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Always use pure vanilla for the best flavor.
1 teaspoon baking powder: This helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: A little boost to ensure a perfect texture!
1/2 teaspoon salt: It enhances all those sweet flavors.
1 cup brown sugar: This goes into the crumb topping, giving it that rich, caramel-like flavor.
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The spice that makes it extra cozy and warm.
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional): I love adding walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch!

Make sure everything is fresh for the best results, and you’ll be on your way to baking something special!

How to Prepare Coffee Crumb Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your cake bakes evenly and beautifully! While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it up. I like to use a little butter or cooking spray, making sure to cover all the corners. This prevents any sticking disasters later on, and trust me, you want this cake to slide right out after baking!

Step 2: Mix the Batter

Now onto the fun part! In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes should do it. You want to see that lovely pale yellow color! Next, add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then pour in that heavenly vanilla extract. This is where the magic starts to happen! In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the flour mixture to keep everything balanced. Mix until just combined—don’t overdo it! You want a lusciously smooth batter, but a few lumps are totally okay!

Step 3: Create the Topping

Let’s get that crumbly topping ready! In a different bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped nuts if you’re using them (I highly recommend it for that extra crunch!). Use a fork to mix everything together until it’s crumbly and well combined. Now, spread half of your batter into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle half of that glorious brown sugar mixture over the batter, making sure to distribute it evenly. Then, dollop the rest of the batter on top and finish with the remaining crumb topping. It’s going to look so tempting even before it hits the oven!

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Pop your masterpiece in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This little cooling period helps set the cake and keeps it from falling apart. Just try to resist the urge to dive in right away—give it a moment to settle and cool down!

Why You’ll Love This Coffee Crumb Cake

This Coffee Crumb Cake is a game-changer, and here’s why you’ll adore it as much as I do:

Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this cake ready to bake in no time!
Deliciously Moist: Thanks to the sour cream and that crumbly topping, each bite is heavenly and full of flavor.
Versatile Treat: Whether you serve it for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful dessert, it fits any occasion perfectly.
Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good coffee crumb cake! It’s kid-approved and great for gatherings.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or even chocolate chips for a twist!

Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be planning your next baking session!

Tips for Success

To achieve that perfect texture and flavor in your Coffee Crumb Cake, I’ve got a few pro tips to share!

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps everything blend smoothly and creates a tender crumb.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, and nobody wants that!
Watch Your Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended time. Remember, it’s better to underbake slightly than to overbake!
Extra Cinnamon: If you’re a cinnamon lover like me, feel free to add a bit more to the topping! It enhances that cozy flavor.
Cooling Matters: Letting your cake cool in the pan for a bit before transferring to a wire rack helps maintain its structure. Patience pays off!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to baking a Coffee Crumb Cake that’s truly irresistible!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a bit of info on what you’ll be getting with each slice of this delightful Coffee Crumb Cake! Keep in mind that these numbers are estimates, but they give you a good idea:

Calories: 320
Fat: 15g
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Sugar: 18g

Enjoy this treat in moderation, and it’s a tasty way to satisfy your sweet tooth while still enjoying a good balance!

FAQ Section

Got questions about this delightful Coffee Crumb Cake? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up:

Can I make this Coffee Crumb Cake ahead of time? Absolutely! You can bake it a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld!
What can I substitute for sour cream? If you don’t have sour cream on hand, plain yogurt works beautifully as a substitute. It adds similar moisture and tang, ensuring your cake remains delicious.
Can I freeze Coffee Crumb Cake? Yes! Once cooled, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months, making for a quick treat anytime you need it!
Is this recipe easily customizable? Totally! Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, or use different nuts in the crumb topping. It’s all about making it your own!
What’s the best way to serve this cake? I love serving it warm with a cup of coffee, but it’s also delightful at room temperature. You can dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant touch!

With these answers, you’ll be all set to whip up your own perfect Coffee Crumb Cake!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your Coffee Crumb Cake properly is key to keeping it fresh and delicious! Once it’s completely cooled, you can cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. This helps lock in moisture and keeps it from drying out. If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a rarity in my house!), you can store it at room temperature for up to three days.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices. Just wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay good for up to three months! When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or pop it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. It’s a quick and easy way to revive that fresh-baked taste!