Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cinnamon Swirl Magic : Layers of sweet cinnamon sugar create a ribbon of flavor in every bite.
- Crunchy Streusel Topping : The buttery, sugary crumble adds a satisfying contrast to the soft cake.
- Easy to Make : No fancy equipment or techniques required—just mix, layer, and bake.
- Versatile : Perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or gifting to friends and family.
- Freezer-Friendly : Make ahead and freeze for busy mornings or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter , softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg , room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt for a lighter option)
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter , cold and cubed
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease a 9x9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and sour cream to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling
- In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the filling. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
- Dollop the remaining batter over the cinnamon layer and gently spread it to cover as much as possible—it’s okay if some cinnamon peeks through.
Step 5: Make the Streusel Topping
- In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the streusel.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the top of the cake.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake for 35–40 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Why This Recipe Works
- Buttery Base : Softened butter ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Sour Cream Boost : Adds moisture and richness to the cake, preventing it from drying out.
- Layered Flavors : The cinnamon swirl and streusel topping create a delicious balance of sweetness and spice.
Variations to Try
- Add Nuts : Stir chopped pecans or walnuts into the streusel for extra crunch.
- Glaze It Up : Drizzle a simple glaze (powdered sugar + milk) over the cooled cake for added sweetness.
- Chocolate Twist : Add mini chocolate chips to the batter or sprinkle them on top of the streusel.
- Fruit Filling : Swap the cinnamon sugar layer for a thin layer of fruit preserves like raspberry or apple butter.
- Spice It Up : Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for warmth.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix : Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake—mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Cold Butter for Streusel : Use cold, cubed butter to achieve a crumbly, crunchy streusel topping.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for longer storage. Freeze slices for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Romantic Touch : Dust with powdered sugar or garnish with fresh berries for elegance.
- Brunch Staple : Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet breakfast treat.
- Party Platter : Pair with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for a cozy gathering.
Final Thoughts
This Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake is a testament to the beauty of simple, wholesome baking. With its buttery layers, spiced cinnamon swirls, and crunchy streusel topping, it’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet comforting. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or as a homemade gift, this cake is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction.
Your turn! Have you ever made a coffee cake before? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. 🍰