Christmas-Morning Coffee Cake Recipe

Description of this recipe:
This Christmas-Morning Coffee Cake is a delightful blend of rich flavors and textures, perfect for celebrating the holiday season. With a moist and tender cake base complemented by a crunchy streusel topping and an optional sweet glaze, this recipe is sure to become a cherished tradition in your home.

Why you will love this recipe:
You will love this coffee cake for its incredible flavor and versatility. It’s not just a breakfast treat; it can easily be served as a dessert or an afternoon snack. The combination of sour cream and brewed coffee in the batter creates a moist cake that pairs perfectly with the sweet, nutty streusel topping. Plus, the aroma of this cake baking will fill your home with warmth and holiday cheer, making it an ideal addition to your Christmas morning festivities.

Introduction

The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and, of course, delicious food. One of the most beloved traditions during this festive time is gathering around the breakfast table to enjoy something special. This Christmas-Morning Coffee Cake is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday brunch. It’s easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and everyone will love it. The rich flavors of coffee and brown sugar combined with the comforting texture of the cake make it a standout dish that will have your loved ones asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup brewed coffee (cooled)

For the Streusel Topping:

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, walnuts or pecans)

For the Glaze (optional):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tbsp milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Make the cake batter. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process should take about 3-4 minutes. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and cooled brewed coffee to the mixture, mixing until well combined.

Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.

Step 4: Prepare the streusel topping. In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If you’re using nuts, stir them in at this stage.

Step 5: Assemble the cake. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top and finish with the rest of the streusel topping. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

COOKING Rating:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Serving Suggestions:

This coffee cake is best served warm or at room temperature. Slice it into squares and serve it alongside a steaming cup of coffee or hot cocoa for a delightful breakfast or brunch. For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle the optional glaze over the top just before serving. You can also pair it with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for a more festive presentation.

Tips:

  • Make Ahead: This coffee cake can be prepared a day in advance. Just store it covered at room temperature. It also freezes well; wrap slices in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to a month.
  • Customization: Feel free to customize the streusel topping by adding different spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, or by incorporating dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cook Time:

35-40 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 12 servings):

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 3g
  • Sodium: 150mg

Conclusion

This Christmas-Morning Coffee Cake is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to create lasting memories with your loved ones during the holiday season. The combination of flavors, the delightful texture, and the warm, inviting aroma make it a perfect addition to your breakfast table. Whether you’re enjoying it on Christmas morning or any day during the festive season, this coffee cake is sure to bring joy and satisfaction to everyone who takes a bite. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a cake that will fill your home with the spirit of the holidays!

Questions and Answers:

1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.

2. How can I store leftover coffee cake?
Store any leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month.

3. Can I make this coffee cake without coffee?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use coffee, you can substitute it with milk or even a flavored milk alternative for a different twist.

4. Is the glaze necessary?
The glaze is optional but adds a lovely sweetness and visual appeal to the cake. If you prefer a less sweet option, feel free to skip it.

5. Can I add fruits to the batter?
Yes! Adding fresh or frozen fruits like blueberries or chopped apples can enhance the flavor and texture of the cake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if necessary.