If you’re looking for a delightful baking experience that fills your home with warmth and delicious aromas, then this Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Cinnamon-Walnut Swirl recipe should be your next culinary adventure. This cake is the perfect blend of moistness and flavor, making it a popular choice for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of the day. The addition of sour cream not only contributes to a tender crumb but also adds a lovely richness that elevates a classic coffee cake to new heights.
In addition to being scrumptiously soft, this Sour Cream Coffee Cake is incredibly versatile. Pair it with your morning coffee, serve it at brunch, or enjoy it as an afternoon snack. The cinnamon-walnut swirl adds a delightful crunch and a delightful aromatic flavor that intertwines with the soft cake, making every bite a treat for the senses. Best of all, it’s easy to make! With straightforward ingredients and simple preparation steps, you can watch as this cake transforms into a golden masterpiece in your oven.
Why You’ll Love This Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Cinnamon-Walnut Swirl
There are numerous reasons to love this cake, including:
- Moist and Tender Texture: The sour cream ensures a soft and moist crumb that melts in your mouth.
- Flavorful Swirl: Cinnamon and walnuts create a nutty and aromatic swirl that adds depth to the cake.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is great for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect Anytime: Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack with your favorite beverage.
Ingredients
To create a scrumptious Sour Cream Coffee Cake with a Cinnamon-Walnut Swirl, you will need the following:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Cinnamon-Walnut Swirl:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper preheating is essential, as it ensures that your cake bakes evenly throughout. While the oven warms, prepare your baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, take your flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, and whisk them together. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour, ensuring a fluffy cake. Set this mixture aside while you work on your wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream these ingredients together until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color. This step is crucial for creating the cake’s airy texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Crack in the eggs one at a time into the creamed butter and sugar, mixing well after each addition. Follow with the vanilla extract for a fragrant, sweet flavor that complements the cake. Ensure everything is thoroughly blended for a uniform batter.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, add in the flour mixture and sour cream alternately, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix gently until just combined. Over-mixing can result in a dense cake, so take care to mix only until you no longer see any flour streaks.
Step 6: Prepare the Swirl
In a separate bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. This mixture will add a delightful crunch and a sweet spice that contrasts beautifully with the moist cake.
Step 7: Layer the Batter
Start layering in your prepared baking dish by spreading half of the cake batter evenly across the bottom. Next, sprinkle half of the cinnamon-walnut swirl mixture over the batter. Follow this with the remaining batter, spreading it out to cover the swirl. Finally, top with the remaining swirl mixture to create a lovely pattern in the cake.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the layered cake in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35-40 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. Baking times may vary, so keep an eye on it as it approaches the end of baking time.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This cooling step is important; it allows the cake to set and makes it easier to cut clean slices.
Variations
This Sour Cream Coffee Cake is quite versatile. Here are a few delightful variations to consider:
- Protein: Incorporate some crumbled bacon or sausage for a savory twist.
- Vegetables: Add grated carrots or zucchini into the batter for added moisture and nutrition.
- Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or cardamom for a different flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
To enhance your baking experience, consider the following notes:
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature to achieve the best creaming results.
- If you don’t have walnuts, pecans can be a delicious substitute.
- This cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for several days, maintaining its moistness.
- For added indulgence, drizzle a simple glaze on top with powdered sugar and milk.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Sour Cream Coffee Cake with the following:
- A hot cup of coffee or tea for a classic brunch combo.
- Fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas on the side.
Tips
Keep these tips in mind to ensure your coffee cake is a hit:
- Don’t over-mix the batter; it should be just combined to keep it light and fluffy.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- For an elegant touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar over the cake before serving.
- Consider using a bundt pan for an impressive presentation.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approx. 320 per serving
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 180mg
FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be substituted for sour cream in equal amounts, providing a similar texture and tangy flavor.
How do I know when my coffee cake is done baking?
You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it is ready.
Can I freeze this coffee cake?
Absolutely! This cake freezes well. Just wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What should I serve with this cake?
Pair it with coffee, tea, or fresh fruit for a delightful accompaniment to your sweet treat.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Cinnamon-Walnut Swirl is not just a recipe; it’s a delightful addition to your baking repertoire that impresses both in taste and appearance. Its easy preparation and balanced flavors make it perfect for any occasion, whether simple family breakfasts or special gatherings. Don’t miss the chance to try this cake; it’s a culinary experience that promises moist bites filled with sweet cinnamon and nutty goodness. We encourage you to share your thoughts, adjustments, or favorite pairings in the comments below. Happy baking!
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Delicious Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Cinnamon-Walnut Swirl
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Cinnamon-Walnut Swirl is moist, rich, and a delightful treat any time of day.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together.
- Cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time and then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients alternately until just mixed.
- Prepare the swirl mixture by mixing walnuts, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Layer half of the batter, add half of the swirl, then the rest of the batter and then the remaining swirl.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until done.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes then completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
Do not over-mix the batter for a light texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Protein: 4 g