Cream Cheese Coffee Cake

What’s better than a delightful slice of cake paired with your morning coffee? A Cream Cheese Coffee Cake, of course! This rich, moist cake has a luscious cream cheese filling that makes it an irresistible treat for breakfast or dessert. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Cream Cheese Coffee Cake recipe is not only simple to follow but also yields a consistently delicious result every time. The combination of sour cream and cream cheese adds moisture and richness, while the cinnamon filling provides warmth and comfort. Whether you’re planning a brunch or just a cozy afternoon snack, this cake is bound to impress.

What Goes Into Cream Cheese Coffee Cake

To create this delightful Cream Cheese Coffee Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup lightly packed brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup sour cream (8 ounces)
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for filling)
• 16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for filling)
• 1 large egg (for filling)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (for glaze)
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for glaze)
• 1 tablespoon milk (for glaze)

What’s in the Gear List

Make sure you have the following tools ready to create the perfect Cream Cheese Coffee Cake:

• Mixing bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients.
• Electric mixer: To achieve a smooth cream cheese filling.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• 9×13 inch baking pan: The ideal size for even baking.
• Spatula: For folding ingredients and spreading the batter.
• Cooling rack: To cool the cake evenly after baking.

The Method for Cream Cheese Coffee Cake

Now that you have your ingredients and gear ready, let’s get baking!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of lightly packed brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Mix until crumbly and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat together 16 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 large egg until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt.

Step 5: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy.

Step 6: Add Wet Ingredients

Add 1 large egg, 1 cup of sour cream, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined.

Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 8: Layer the Batter and Fillings

Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon filling over the batter, followed by the cream cheese filling. Top with the remaining batter and finish with the remaining cinnamon filling.

Step 9: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool and Glaze

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack. Once cooled, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and milk to create a glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cake before slicing and serving.

Make It Diet-Friendly

If you’re looking to make this Cream Cheese Coffee Cake a little lighter or fit specific dietary needs, consider the following alternatives:

• Use whole wheat flour for a healthier grain option.
• Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for added protein.
• Opt for a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake.
• Use light cream cheese to reduce calories and fat.

Learn from These Mistakes

Baking can be tricky, and even the most seasoned bakers can encounter pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overmixing: Be gentle when combining your ingredients to avoid a dense cake.
• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and a less fluffy texture.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the cake to cool properly helps enhance the flavors and makes it easier to cut.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, so precise measurements are crucial for success.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Cream Cheese Coffee Cake can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to store it:

• Room Temperature: The cake can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days, covered with plastic wrap or foil.
• Refrigerator: If you want it to last longer, store it in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes! Low-fat cream cheese can be used as a substitute in this recipe without sacrificing too much flavor or texture.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

You can substitute plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk for sour cream in this recipe, maintaining moisture and richness.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

A toothpick inserted into the center of the cake should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached, indicating it’s fully baked.

Can I add fruit to the cake?

Absolutely! Fresh blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples can be added to the batter for extra flavor and texture.

Try These Next

If you love this Cream Cheese Coffee Cake, you might also enjoy:

• Blueberry Coffee Cake
• Peach Coffee Cake
• Vegan Chocolate Cake

That’s a Wrap

With its creamy filling and delightful cinnamon swirl, this Cream Cheese Coffee Cake is truly a showstopper. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it with a cup of coffee on a quiet morning, it’s bound to bring smiles all around.

Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to get baking! Your kitchen is about to fill with the most heavenly aroma, and your taste buds are in for a treat. Happy baking!