Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake

Warm, sweet, and swirled with cinnamon, this Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake is the perfect way to elevate your morning routine, making every bite a delightful experience. The combination of the fluffy cake base, rich cinnamon layer, and a sugary glaze creates a harmonious balance that transforms a simple coffee break into a cozy indulgence. It’s quick to prepare, allowing you to enjoy this homemade treat any time you crave something indulgently sweet.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake is not only a feast for the taste buds but also exceptionally easy to make, using simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Perfectly pair it with your morning coffee or as a base for holiday breakfast spreads. Its delightful aroma will fill your kitchen and can bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia. The recipe is easily adaptable: feel free to add nuts, or dried fruits to the batter for added texture and flavor. But even in its purest form, it’s just as satisfying!

Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is key to crafting the perfect coffee cake. Here are the details:

Cake Base:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup white sugar
• 2 eggs
• 4 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup butter, melted

Cinnamon Layer:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 5 tbsp milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Greasing the pan is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking, allowing for a smooth removal once it’s baked.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of white sugar, 2 eggs, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Use a mixer or whisk to combine these ingredients until you achieve a smooth batter. This forms the cake base that will hold the delightful cinnamon layer.

Step 3: Stir in the melted butter until well incorporated. This step adds richness to the cake base. Once combined, pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, ensuring an even spread for uniform baking.

Step 4: In another mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This cinnamon mixture will form the delightful layer of flavor that runs through the cake. Drop spoonfuls of it over the cake batter.

Step 5: Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the cake batter. Be careful not to over mix; you want distinct swirls of cinnamon that fold into the cake but still maintain a marbled effect.

Step 6: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. It should come out nearly clean; a few moist crumbs are okay. If it comes out gooey, give it a few more minutes.

Step 7: While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together 2 cups of powdered sugar, 5 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. This glaze will add a sweet finishing touch to your coffee cake once it cools.

Step 8: Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes. Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm cake, letting it soak in and create a beautiful finish.

FAQs

Can I make this coffee cake in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the coffee cake a day before serving. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh, and apply the glaze just before serving for optimal taste and presentation.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake?

Absolutely! Allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

What can I serve with this coffee cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with morning coffee or tea. Additionally, it can be a sweet addition to a brunch spread alongside fresh fruits or yogurt.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit?

Certainly! Feel free to fold in half a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans, or toss in 1 cup of dried fruits for extra flavor and texture within the cake batter.

What if I don’t have all-purpose flour?

If all-purpose flour isn’t available, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend or use cake flour, keeping in mind the texture may differ slightly.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake is a delightful and easy recipe perfect for any gathering or a cozy morning brunch at home. Its warm flavors are not only comforting but will also evoke fond memories with each bite. From the creation of the luscious batter to the final drizzle of glaze, making this coffee cake is a journey of sweet indulgence worth every moment. Whether you’re serving it to family or enjoying a peaceful morning treat, this cake will surely become a beloved addition to your recipe collection.