I love baking and experimenting with different recipes in my kitchen. One of my favorite treats to make is coffee cake, and a key element that takes it to the next level is a delicious and crunchy streusel topping. In this article, I will share with you my recipe for making a mouthwatering streusel topping for coffee cake. It’s a simple and easy process that will enhance the flavor and texture of your homemade coffee cake.
Gathering the Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather all the ingredients we’ll need to make this delectable streusel topping. Luckily, the ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, so you won’t have to make a trip to the grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the streusel topping:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the coffee cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup milk
– 2 eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Now that we have everything ready let’s move on to the next step.
Mixing the Streusel Topping
To start, I combine the flour, sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt in a mixing bowl. I give it a good whisk to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. Then, I pour in the melted butter and stir everything together. The result is a crumbly mixture that will add a delightful crunch to the coffee cake. It’s important to make sure that the streusel topping is well-mixed to ensure that it bakes evenly and maintains its texture.
Preparing the Coffee Cake Batter
Now that the streusel topping is ready, it’s time to prepare the coffee cake batter. In a separate bowl, I cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. Then, I add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Next, I mix in the vanilla extract, giving the batter a delightful aroma.
In a separate bowl, I whisk together the flour and baking powder. Alternating between the dry mixture and the milk, I gradually add both to the butter-sugar mixture. I continue to mix until the batter is smooth and all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Assembling and Baking the Coffee Cake
Now that both the streusel topping and the coffee cake batter are ready, it’s time to bring them together for baking. I start by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a baking pan.
I pour half of the coffee cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Then, I sprinkle a generous layer of the streusel topping over the batter, making sure to cover it completely and leaving no gaps. Finally, I add the remaining coffee cake batter on top of the streusel layer.
I place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The streusel topping should have a golden brown color and a delightful fragrance when it’s ready.
Serving and Enjoying
Once the coffee cake is baked to perfection, I remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This is the hardest part, as the aroma fills my kitchen, making it difficult to resist.
After the cake has cooled slightly, I slice it into generous pieces and serve it alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea. The streusel topping adds a delightful sweetness and crunch to every bite, perfectly complementing the moist and fluffy coffee cake.
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for various modifications and additions. For those who enjoy nuts, chopped pecans or walnuts can be added to the streusel topping for an extra layer of texture. Additionally, a handful of chocolate chips or dried fruits can also be incorporated into the batter for a delightful twist.
In conclusion, making streusel topping for coffee cake is an easy and rewarding process. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you can create a delicious treat that will impress your family and friends. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, this coffee cake with its delectable streusel topping will surely satisfy your cravings. So, grab your mixing bowls and get ready to indulge in a slice of homemade goodness!