Mom’s Sour Cream Coffee Cake

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Mom’s Sour Cream Coffee Cake

This Sour Cream Coffee Cake is a timeless classic with a moist, tender crumb, a rich cinnamon swirl, and a buttery streusel topping. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a thoughtful homemade gift, it’s the kind of comforting treat that brings people together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Moist & Tender – Sour cream keeps the cake soft and rich.
  • Cinnamon Swirl Magic – A sweet, spiced ribbon runs through every bite.
  • Streusel Heaven – A crunchy, buttery topping adds the perfect texture.
  • Versatile – Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, dessert, or homemade gift.
  • Crowd-Pleasing – A hit at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday brunches.

Ingredients

For the Streusel Topping:

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed

For the Cake:

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sour cream

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Glaze (Optional):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tablespoons milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease and lightly flour a 9×9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping

  1. In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
  2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
  3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
  4. Alternately add dry ingredients and sour cream to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

  1. Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
  2. In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon for the swirl. Sprinkle evenly over the batter.
  3. Dollop the remaining batter over the cinnamon layer and gently spread to cover.
  4. Sprinkle streusel topping evenly over the cake.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.

Step 6: Add the Glaze (Optional)

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Adjust milk as needed to reach your desired consistency.
  3. Drizzle glaze over the cooled cake before slicing.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Sour Cream Magic – Adds moisture and richness, keeping the cake tender for days.
  • Layered Flavors – The cinnamon swirl and streusel topping create the perfect contrast.
  • Simple Techniques – Easy mixing and layering make this recipe beginner-friendly.

Variations to Try

  • Nutty Addition – Stir chopped walnuts or pecans into the streusel for extra crunch.
  • Fruit Twist – Fold fresh blueberries or diced apples into the batter.
  • Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Spiced Up – Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to deepen the flavor.
  • Mini Loaves – Divide batter into mini loaf pans for individual cakes—great for gifting.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and tender.
  • Cool Completely – Let the cake cool before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting.
  • Storage – Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer storage.

Serving Suggestions

  • Brunch Staple: Pair with fresh fruit, yogurt, or scrambled eggs.
  • Romantic Touch: Slice into squares and dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
  • Party Platter: Serve alongside coffee, tea, or hot cocoa at gatherings.

Final Thoughts

This Mom’s Sour Cream Coffee Cake is a comforting, bakery-quality treat that’s simple to make yet full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just want a cozy homemade dessert, this classic recipe is sure to become a favorite.

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