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Irresistible Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe – Perfect for Breakfast or Brunch

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Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a warm, buttery Cream Cheese Coffee Cake to start your morning or enjoy during brunch. This delightful treat combines a soft, moist cake with a rich, creamy cheesecake-like filling and a crunchy, cinnamon-streusel topping. The perfect balance of sweetness and texture makes it an irresistible choice for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. Originating from traditional European coffee cakes, this version adds a delicious twist with a smooth cream cheese layer, enhancing both flavor and texture. It pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee, making it an ideal choice for breakfast gatherings or afternoon snacks. Not only is it easy to make, but it also stays fresh for days, making it great for meal prep or entertaining guests. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself, this coffee cake is sure to impress!

 

 

Irresistible Cream Cheese Coffee Cake – Perfect for Breakfast or Brunch

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

  • Moist and Flavorful – A soft cake with a luscious cream cheese filling.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
  • Easy to Make – Simple ingredients with a straightforward process.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly – Stays fresh and delicious for days.

The Origin of Cream Cheese Coffee Cake

Coffee cakes have a long history rooted in European baking traditions, particularly in Germany and Scandinavia. They were traditionally served alongside coffee, hence the name. While classic coffee cakes were simple sponge cakes, American variations introduced richer flavors, including cinnamon streusel toppings and cream cheese fillings, making them the beloved treats they are today.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sour cream

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Streusel Topping:

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Method of Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch baking pan.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
  5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and sour cream, mixing until smooth.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

  1. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.

Step 3: Prepare the Streusel Topping

  1. In a small bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
  2. Stir in melted butter until crumbly.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

  1. Spread half of the cake batter into the prepared pan.
  2. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the batter.
  3. Spread the remaining batter over the cream cheese layer.
  4. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the cake.
  5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  6. Allow to cool before serving.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

  • Cream Cheese – A good source of calcium and healthy fats.
  • Eggs – Provide protein and essential vitamins.
  • Cinnamon – Loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Sour Cream – Adds moisture and beneficial probiotics.

Tips & Mistakes to Avoid

Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Coffee Cake

  • Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep it light and fluffy.
  • Let the cake cool before slicing to allow the layers to set properly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overbaking – This can make the cake dry; check doneness with a toothpick.
  • Skipping the streusel topping – It adds crunch and sweetness.
  • Not properly layering the batter – Ensuring an even distribution gives the best texture.

Serving Tips

  • Serve warm with a fresh cup of coffee or tea.
  • Add a drizzle of glaze for extra sweetness.
  • Pair with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Interesting Facts About Cream Cheese Coffee Cake

  • Despite the name, coffee cakes do not contain coffee – they are meant to be enjoyed with coffee.
  • Cream cheese was first mass-produced in the U.S. in the late 1800s.
  • Streusel, the crumb topping, comes from the German word meaning “to sprinkle.”

Summarized Recipe

  1. Prepare cake batter – mix dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine.
  2. Make cream cheese filling – blend cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla.
  3. Prepare streusel topping – mix flour, sugar, cinnamon, and butter.
  4. Assemble – layer batter, cream cheese filling, remaining batter, and streusel.
  5. Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes.
  6. Cool and serve.

Conclusion

Soft, sweet, and utterly delicious, Cream Cheese Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time of day. The combination of moist cake, creamy filling, and crunchy streusel makes every bite a pleasure. Try this easy-to-follow recipe today and enjoy a homemade baked good that’s sure to impress!

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