Introduction:
Transform your breakfast routine into a delightful indulgence with our Easy Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake. Bursting with warm cinnamon flavor and topped with a decadent crumb topping, this irresistible coffee cake is sure to become a favorite among family and friends. In this article, we’ll unveil the simple steps to creating this mouthwatering treat, perfect for cozy mornings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
Cake:
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 cups flour
- 2 tsp vanilla
- 4 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1½ cups milk
Topping:
- 1 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp. flour
- 1 Tbsp. cinnamon
Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 5 Tbsp. milk
- 1 tsp vanilla
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a large bowl, mix all the cake ingredients together until well combined.
- Pour into a greased 9×13 pan.
- For the topping, mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl until well combined.
- Spread evenly on the batter and swirl with a knife. Bake at 350 for 30-35 minutes.
- For the glaze, mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl until it is a consistency like pancake syrup.
- While warm, drizzle the glaze over the cake and it will set into a harder glaze.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Tips:
- Warm and Inviting: For the best experience, serve the Easy Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake warm or at room temperature. The comforting aroma of cinnamon will fill the air, enticing everyone to indulge in a slice of this delicious treat.
- Presentation Matters: When serving the coffee cake, consider dusting the top with powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance. You can also garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few cinnamon sticks for a decorative flair that enhances the visual appeal.
- Pairing Suggestions: Complement the flavors of the coffee cake by serving it alongside your favorite hot beverage, such as freshly brewed coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. The warmth of the beverage contrasts beautifully with the cozy flavors of cinnamon, creating a delightful pairing.
- Slice with Care: When slicing the coffee cake, use a sharp knife to ensure clean, even cuts. Wiping the knife clean between slices will help achieve a polished presentation, especially if you plan to serve the cake to guests.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature: Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Be sure to let the cake cool completely before storing to prevent condensation from forming and making the cake soggy.
- Refrigeration: If you prefer to store the coffee cake for longer periods, you can refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5-7 days. Keep in mind that refrigeration can cause the cake to dry out slightly, so consider reheating it briefly in the microwave before serving to restore its moisture.
- Freezing: To extend the shelf life of the coffee cake, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. Thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight before reheating or serving.
- Reheating: If the coffee cake becomes slightly dry after storage, you can easily revive its freshness by reheating it. Simply warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
FAQs:
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in the coffee cake recipe? Absolutely! While all-purpose flour is traditionally used in baking, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutritional benefits. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour may result in a denser texture, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe accordingly.
- Can I omit the crumb topping if I prefer a simpler coffee cake? Of course! The crumb topping adds a delightful crunch and extra sweetness to the coffee cake, but it’s entirely optional. If you prefer a simpler coffee cake, you can omit the crumb topping altogether, and the cake will still be delicious with the cinnamon sugar swirl inside.
- How can I prevent the cinnamon sugar swirl from sinking to the bottom of the cake? To prevent the cinnamon sugar swirl from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking, make sure to spread the batter evenly over the cinnamon sugar filling in the pan. You can also gently swirl the batter with a knife or spatula to distribute the cinnamon sugar mixture throughout the cake.
- Can I make the coffee cake ahead of time for a special occasion? Absolutely! You can prepare the coffee cake in advance and store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator until ready to serve. If storing in the refrigerator, consider reheating the cake slightly in the oven before serving to enhance its freshness and flavor.
- How can I adapt the recipe to make it dairy-free or vegan? To make the coffee cake dairy-free or vegan, you can use plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat milk) in place of dairy milk, and vegetable oil or melted coconut oil instead of butter. For the egg, you can use a commercial egg replacer or make a flaxseed or chia seed “egg” by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and letting it sit for a few minutes to thicken before adding to the batter.
Conclusion:
With its irresistible combination of warm cinnamon flavor, tender cake crumb, and crunchy crumb topping, our Easy Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake is a true delight for the senses. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat, brunch centerpiece, or afternoon snack, this simple yet satisfying recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the comforting flavors of homemade cinnamon goodness!