Hey there, my baking buddies! If you’re anything like me, you know that the best way to brighten a gloomy day is with a warm slice of cake and a steaming cup of coffee. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you my Easy Sourdough Coffee Cake Recipe, it’s not just any coffee cake; it’s incredibly comforting, fluffy, and is great for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, need a pick-me-up for your afternoon slump, or simply want a little sweetness in your life, this cake has got you covered!

So, roll up your sleeves, grab your apron, and let’s get into the delicious world of baking this comforting sourdough coffee cake!

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Coffee Cake

First off, let’s talk about that delightful flavor. The unique tang of sourdough elevates this coffee cake, giving it a depth that you just won’t find in typical cakes. Plus, using sourdough adds a lovely moisture that keeps each slice fresh for days, if it lasts that long, that is!

Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. We’re all about easy baking here, nothing complicated adds stress to our kitchen sanctuary. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you will have a show-stopping cake ready to impress your friends, family, or even yourself.

And let’s not forget the versatility! You can customize this cake to your heart’s content. Want to toss in some berries, nuts, or chocolate chips? Go for it! This recipe leaves plenty of room for you to get creative and make it truly your own.

How to Make Sourdough Coffee Cake

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup sourdough starter (discard or active)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

Topping:

1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. You want everything to incorporate nicely!
Mix in the sourdough starter and vanilla extract.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; don’t overdo it!
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, chopped nuts, and ground cinnamon for the topping.
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle half of the topping mixture on top, and then pour the remaining batter over it.
Finally, sprinkle the rest of the topping on top of the cake batter.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Easy to Make Sourdough Coffee Cake Recipe

Best Ways to Serve Sourdough Coffee Cake

This cake is unbelievably versatile when it comes to serving options. It pairs beautifully with your morning cup of coffee or tea. A warm slice for breakfast? Yes, please! You can also serve it as an afternoon snack or dessert.

Add a drop of honey or a light drizzle of icing for extra sweetness, or simply enjoy it plain to highlight that gorgeous sourdough flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, top it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—pure bliss!

Storage Tips for Sourdough Coffee Cake

Want to keep this cake around longer? Store your leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also extend its shelf life by refrigerating it for up to a week.

Freezing is an excellent option, too! Simply wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze. They should keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it at room temperature or warm it up in the oven.

Expert Tips for Perfect Sourdough Coffee Cake

Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your butter and eggs matters. Make sure they are fresh for the best taste.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Stop mixing when just combined.
Check the Oven Temperature: Every oven is different. It might help to use an oven thermometer if you find that your cakes don’t bake evenly.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to allow for better incorporation into the batter.
Experiment with Flavors: Love nuts or chocolate? Try adding them in for an indulgent twist!

Delicious Variations of Sourdough Coffee Cake

Feel free to tailor this sourdough coffee cake to your taste! Here are a few ideas:

Fruit Burst: Add fresh blueberries, diced strawberries, or banana slices into the batter for bursts of fruity flavor.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips or swirl melted chocolate throughout the cake for a decadent twist.
Nutty Twist: Incorporate crushed almonds or hazelnuts for an extra crunch.
Zesty Addition: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to brighten up the flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I use a gluten-free flour in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure it has a binder like xanthan gum.

Can I make this without sourdough starter?

While it’s best to use sourdough for flavor and texture, you can try using plain yogurt or buttermilk but keep in mind it may alter the taste a bit.

How do I know when my cake is done?

A toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If there’s wet batter on it, give it a few more minutes.

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this delicious sourdough coffee cake! It’s a lovely way to enjoy your baking journey and share some joy with others. Remember, no matter how it turns out, you’re doing something special in your kitchen. Happy baking!