Holiday Cinnamon Coffee Cake
“My mom makes this every Christmas and I look forward to it all year. It’s heavenly with a cup of coffee!”
Introduction
There’s something about the holidays that brings out the best in baked goods, and nothing says “Christmas” like a warm, cinnamon-infused coffee cake. This recipe has been in my family for generations, and every Christmas, it graces our breakfast table alongside steaming cups of coffee. It’s rich, fragrant, and tender—perfect for those cozy mornings when you want to slow down and savor the season. Whether served as a holiday breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a dessert after a festive dinner, this cinnamon coffee cake is sure to please everyone.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt)
- 1/2 cup milk
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
For the Crumb Topping:
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Method/Instructions
1. Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl. Add the softened butter and blend until smooth. Set aside.
2. Make the Crumb Topping:
In a medium bowl, combine the flour and brown sugar for the topping. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the walnuts (if using). Set aside.
3. Make the Cake Batter:
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat together the butter, eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, and milk until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. The batter should be thick but smooth.
4. Assemble the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan (or an 8-inch square pan).
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan.
- Spoon half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter and swirl it gently with a knife or skewer.
- Add the rest of the batter, smoothing it out.
- Top with the remaining cinnamon swirl and swirl it again for a marbled effect.
5. Add the Crumb Topping:
Sprinkle the prepared crumb topping evenly over the batter.
6. Bake:
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake will be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking until done.
7. Cool and Serve:
Let the cake cool for 10–15 minutes before removing it from the pan. Serve warm or at room temperature with a cup of coffee, and enjoy the aroma and the delicate sweetness of this holiday treat.
History of Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Cinnamon coffee cake, also known as “Cinnamon Streusel Cake,” has roots in European baking traditions, particularly German and Scandinavian cultures, where coffee cakes (often called “kaffekuchen”) are a staple of afternoon tea or coffee time. These cakes have been enjoyed for centuries as a simple, comforting snack with coffee or tea.
The concept of a “coffee cake” was brought to the U.S. by German immigrants in the 19th century. These early recipes focused on simple, lightly sweetened cakes with rich, buttery flavors, often swirled with fruit, nuts, or spices like cinnamon. The coffee cake became especially popular in the 1950s and 1960s, when it became a classic accompaniment to a cup of coffee during social gatherings or family breakfasts.
This particular cinnamon coffee cake recipe has evolved over time, passed down through generations, and is now an essential part of our holiday celebrations.
Formation and Structure of the Cake
This cake is structured in three key layers:
- The Base Cake Layer: A simple, slightly tangy batter that provides a moist, fluffy base. The addition of sour cream (or yogurt) adds richness and a slight tang, balancing out the sweetness.
- The Cinnamon Swirl: The warm cinnamon sugar mixture creates a swirl of sweetness that runs throughout the cake, adding flavor and texture.
- The Crumb Topping: A buttery, crumbly topping provides the perfect contrast to the softness of the cake and the spiciness of the cinnamon. The crunch from the walnuts (if included) offers a delightful bite.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Cake
This cinnamon coffee cake is the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and buttery. The soft, fluffy texture contrasts with the rich cinnamon swirl and crunchy crumb topping, creating a cake that’s irresistible from the first bite to the last. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa, making it the ideal addition to your holiday spread. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones around the table or savoring it alone with a warm drink, this cake is bound to become a cherished tradition in your home as well.
Lovers of the Cake
This cake has captured the hearts of many in our family and among our friends. It’s a favorite of everyone from my grandmother, who passed down the recipe, to my kids, who eagerly wait for Christmas morning to dive into the first slice. The cinnamon and butter bring an irresistible fragrance to the house, and the cake’s comforting texture is sure to bring smiles to anyone who takes a bite.
Whether you’re a fan of cinnamon, coffee cakes, or simply love baked goods made with love and tradition, this recipe will win you over. It’s more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of warmth, family, and the joy of sharing food with those we love. So, as you sit down to enjoy a slice of this cake, take a moment to appreciate not just the flavors, but the memories and traditions it represents.
Enjoy! Would love to hear how it turns out if you give it a try! 😊