Moist Coffee Cake – Soft, Buttery and Cinnamon-Spiced

This Moist Coffee Cake is soft, buttery, and loaded with a sweet cinnamon streusel topping. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon coffee break, this classic cake stays tender and moist thanks to sour cream in the batter and a rich crumb topping. It is the kind of cake that makes any moment feel a little more special.

Why This Coffee Cake Is a Classic

This coffee cake is everything a great coffee cake should be – tender, buttery, and generously spiced with cinnamon. The sour cream in the batter ensures an incredibly moist crumb, while the streusel topping adds a delightful crunch and sweetness. A simple vanilla glaze drizzled over the top provides the perfect finishing touch. Whether you are serving it for a weekend brunch, a holiday gathering, or simply enjoying it with your morning cup of coffee, this cake never disappoints.

Ingrédients

For the Cake

  • Plain flour (all-purpose) – 2½ cups (about 310 g)
  • Baking powder – 2 teaspoons
  • Bicarbonate of soda – ½ teaspoon
  • Salt – ½ teaspoon
  • Unsalted butter – 1 cup (225 g), softened
  • Granulated sugar – 1 cup (200 g)
  • Brown sugar – ½ cup (100 g), packed
  • Large eggs – 3
  • Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons
  • Sour cream – 1 cup (240 ml)

For the Cinnamon Streusel

  • Brown sugar – 1 cup (200 g), packed
  • Plain flour – 1 cup (about 125 g)
  • Ground cinnamon – 2 teaspoons
  • Cold unsalted butter – ½ cup (115 g), cubed
  • Chopped pecans or walnuts – 1 cup (optional, for extra crunch)

For the Vanilla Glaze

  • Icing sugar (powdered sugar) – 1 cup (about 120 g)
  • Milk – 2 to 3 tablespoons
  • Vanilla extract – ½ teaspoon

Préparation

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a 9-inch springform pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Streusel

In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon. Cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or a fork until the mixture becomes crumbly and resembles coarse sand. If using nuts, stir them in at this point. Set the streusel aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, and salt. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in colour. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Alternately add the dry ingredients and the sour cream to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined – be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

Step 4: Assemble

Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the streusel mixture over the batter. Spread the remaining batter on top, then finish with the remaining streusel.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes before glazing.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the icing sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the slightly warm cake. Serve and enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

This coffee cake is delicious served warm or at room temperature. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for the perfect pairing. It also makes a wonderful addition to brunch spreads alongside fresh fruit, yoghurt, or a light salad.

Storage and Freezing

Store leftover coffee cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week. Individual slices can be frozen for up to 3 months – simply wrap them tightly in cling film and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave before serving.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

    Ultra-moist and tender crumb Rich cinnamon streusel layers Easy homemade vanilla glaze Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert Classic bakery-style flavour at home

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Greek yoghurt instead of sour cream?

Yes. Plain Greek yoghurt can be substituted for sour cream in equal measure. It will provide a similar moisture and tanginess.

Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. The cake can be baked a day in advance and stored covered at room temperature. Add the glaze just before serving for the best presentation.

Can I omit the nuts?

Yes. The nuts are optional. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit them – the streusel will still be deliciously crunchy and flavourful.

What if I do not have a springform pan?

A 9×13 inch baking dish works perfectly for this recipe. The cake will bake beautifully and serve a crowd.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but you will need to use a larger pan and adjust the baking time accordingly. A 10×15 inch pan or two 9-inch round pans would work well.

Final Thoughts

This moist coffee cake is a timeless favourite that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its buttery crumb, cinnamon-spiced streusel, and delicate vanilla glaze, it is the kind of cake that feels like a hug in every bite. Whether you are baking it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy with your morning brew, it is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Enjoy it fresh from the oven and share it with those you love.

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