Grandma’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake – A Family Favorite

There’s something special about a warm slice of cake with coffee. Grandma’s cinnamon coffee cake recipe captures that warmth perfectly. It’s a family favorite that’s been passed down for generations. It’s often seen at gatherings and celebrations. The mix of spices and sweetness brings back memories of laughter and togetherness. Enjoying it on a cozy weekend or at a family event warms your heart.

Key Takeaways

  • Grandma’s cinnamon coffee cake recipe is a nostalgic family favorite.
  • Sharing this easy cinnamon cake can create lasting memories.
  • Perfect for various occasions, from casual brunches to festive gatherings.
  • Simple ingredients make it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
  • The delightful flavor combination is sure to please everyone.

Why You’ll Love Grandma’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake

Grandma’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake is a favorite for many gatherings. Its lovely aroma and comforting taste make it a great addition to any celebration. Here are some reasons why cinnamon coffee cake is loved.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This dessert is great for any event, from brunches to birthdays. It’s easy to make, perfect for when guests surprise you. Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet afternoon, grandma’s cake is a hit. It becomes the centerpiece that everyone loves.

The Nostalgic Flavor That Brings Families Together

The reasons to love cinnamon coffee cake include its ability to bring back warm memories. The buttery flavor and sweet cinnamon swirl remind us of special times with family. This nostalgic dessert can start conversations about happy moments, showing how food brings families closer.

How to Make Grandma’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake

The smell of cinnamon coffee cake is amazing. It’s great for breakfast or a snack. Making it from scratch is easy with the right ingredients and steps. Let’s go through what you need and how to prepare it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this tasty coffee cake, you’ll need:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Cinnamon Topping Ingredients

The topping makes the cake special. You’ll need:
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Frosting/Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract for a unique twist)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Here’s how to make your cake:

1: Prepare the Batter

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy—this takes about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.

2: Make the Streusel Topping

  1. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nuts (if using), and flour.
  2. Add the cold butter and cut it into the mixture using a fork or pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.

3: Assemble the Cake

  1. Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  2. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter.
  3. Add the remaining batter, spreading it gently to cover the streusel layer.
  4. Top with the remaining streusel.

4: Bake and Cool

  • Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

5: Prepare the Frosting (Optional)

  • In a small bowl, whisk together:
    • 1 cup powdered sugar
    • 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
    • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Mix until smooth, adjusting the consistency by adding more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze or more milk for a thinner drizzle.

6: Frost the Cake

    • Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the frosting over the top using a spoon or piping bag. For a decorative finish, make zigzag patterns or spread it evenly across the surface.
    • Let the frosting set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Conclusion

Thinking about cinnamon coffee cake, it’s clear it’s more than a dessert. It’s a way to bring people together, making memories and laughter. As you bake, you create special moments with family and friends. Family recipes like Grandma’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake are precious. They nourish both body and spirit, reminding us of time with loved ones. Baking brings joy, and this recipe is a timeless treasure. Why not bake this cinnamon coffee cake yourself? Feel the joy of making something delicious and sharing it with loved ones. It will become a favorite in your home, just like for many families.

FAQ

What makes Grandma’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake a family favorite?

Grandma’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake is loved for its tasty flavor and the memories it brings. It’s easy to make, making it a favorite in many families.

Can I make this cinnamon coffee cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make Grandma’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake a day early. Just keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will taste even better the next day.

Is there a gluten-free version of Grandma’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure the baking powder and vanilla extract are gluten-free too.

How can I enhance the flavor of my cinnamon coffee cake?

Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a nice crunch. You can also mix in dried fruit or chocolate chips for a unique flavor.

How do I store leftovers of Grandma’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate or freeze individual slices for later.

Can I use other toppings besides cinnamon sugar?

Definitely! Try a drizzle of icing, powdered sugar, or a fruit topping for a different twist on the classic.
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Close-up of Grandma's Cinnamon Coffee Cake with a golden brown cinnamon-sugar topping, served on a white plate, perfect for brunch or a cozy treat.

Grandma’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake – A Family Favorite


  • Author: Diana Carrozza
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A warm, buttery coffee cake with a sweet cinnamon topping, perfect for gatherings, brunches, or a cozy treat with your favorite cup of coffee.


Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¾ cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Cinnamon Topping:

  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)

Frosting/Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 23 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract for a unique twist)

Instructions

1: Prepare the Batter

    1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

    1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

    1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy—this takes about 2-3 minutes.

    1. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract.

    1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.

2: Make the Streusel Topping

    1. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nuts (if using), and flour.

    1. Add the cold butter and cut it into the mixture using a fork or pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.

3: Assemble the Cake

    1. Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.

    1. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter.

    1. Add the remaining batter, spreading it gently to cover the streusel layer.

    1. Top with the remaining streusel.

4: Bake and Cool

    • Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

    • Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

5: Prepare the Frosting (Optional)

  • In a small bowl, whisk together:
    • 1 cup powdered sugar
    • 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
    • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Mix until smooth, adjusting the consistency by adding more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze or more milk for a thinner drizzle.

6: Frost the Cake

      • Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the frosting over the top using a spoon or piping bag. For a decorative finish, make zigzag patterns or spread it evenly across the surface.
      • Let the frosting set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Add a drizzle of icing or powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 160mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Cinnamon coffee cake, easy coffee cake, family recipe, brunch dessert, cinnamon dessert, quick coffee cake recipe

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