If you're on the hunt for the best coffee cake recipe ever, you're in the right place! This delightful coffee cake recipe with sour cream is a family favorite that brings back memories of Saturday mornings spent with my son, Jake, who always loved to sneak a piece before breakfast. With its tender crumb and delicious streusel topping, this cake is perfect for any occasion.
Table of Contents
Why Youโll Love It
- It’s incredibly moist thanks to the sour cream.
- The streusel adds a delightful crunch and sweetness.
- Itโs easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
- This cake pairs beautifully with your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
Pure Comfort
There’s something so comforting about a warm slice of coffee cake. The aroma fills your kitchen and invites everyone to gather around the table. Plus, itโs a treat that feels special but is simple enough for any day of the week.
What You Need
- 2 sticks 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Can substitute with margarine.
- 200 g 1 cup granulated sugar – Brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor.
- 8 oz 1 cup sour cream – Greek yogurt is a good substitute.
- 8 oz 1 cup buttermilk – Milk with a splash of vinegar can work.
- 3 3 large eggs – For vegan, use flax eggs.
- 360 g 3 cups all-purpose flour – Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option.
- 1 tbsp 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 200 g 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 4 oz 1 cup chopped nuts (optional) – Walnuts or pecans work well.
Time to Cook
Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 40 minutes | Total: 1 hour | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: You can prepare the batter a day in advance and refrigerate it.
Steps to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. This ensures your cake wonโt stick and will come out perfectly.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Youโll know itโs ready when it looks pale and airy.
- Add the sour cream and buttermilk to the butter mixture, then mix in the eggs one at a time. Beat until everything is well combined. The batter will be smooth and creamy, which is just what you want.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- In another bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts to make the streusel topping. It should be crumbly and aromatic, a sign that itโs ready to sprinkle over the cake.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, then sprinkle half of the streusel mixture over it. Pour the remaining batter on top and finish with the rest of the streusel. This layering creates a delicious texture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden and the aroma will fill your kitchen.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut without falling apart. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature!
Make It Perfect
- For an extra touch, drizzle a simple glaze over the cooled cake made from powdered sugar and milk.
- Serve with fresh fruit or whipped cream for a delightful treat.
- If you want to make it even more special, add some chocolate chips to the batter.
Mix It Up
- Try adding blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Substitute the nuts in the streusel for oats for a different texture.
Perfect Partners
- This coffee cake pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
- Serve with a side of yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
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FAQs
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it overnight.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this coffee cake?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream.
What makes this the best coffee cake recipe ever?
The combination of sour cream and buttermilk makes it incredibly moist and flavorful.
Conclusion
This truly is the best coffee cake recipe ever! With its rich flavors and tender crumb, it’s sure to become a staple in your home. So, grab your ingredients and get bakingโyour family will thank you!

Best Coffee Cake Recipe Ever with Sour Cream Streusel
Equipment
- Oven
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
Main
- 2 sticks unsalted butter softened, can substitute with margarine
- 1 cup granulated sugar brown sugar can be used for richer flavor
- 1 cup sour cream Greek yogurt is a good substitute
- 1 cup buttermilk milk with a splash of vinegar can work
- 3 large eggs for vegan, use flax eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour whole wheat flour can be used for healthier option
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup chopped nuts optional, walnuts or pecans work well
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in sour cream and buttermilk, then add eggs one at a time until well combined.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; gradually add to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts to make streusel topping.
- Pour half the batter into the pan, sprinkle half of the streusel, then repeat layering.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cake cool for 10 minutes before slicing; serve warm or at room temperature.