Coffee cake is a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. Aunt Anne’s Coffee Cake is a beloved family recipe that has been passed down through generations. This cake is moist, flavorful, and topped with a delicious crumbly streusel. Whether you are hosting a brunch, enjoying an afternoon snack, or looking for a comforting dessert, this coffee cake is sure to impress. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to make Aunt Anne’s Coffee Cake, ensuring that you get the perfect bake every time.
Ingredients for Aunt Anne’s Coffee Cake
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Aunt Anne’s Coffee Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. In another bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping
In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the rest of the streusel topping over the batter.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Once the cake has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Cut the coffee cake into squares and serve. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
About the Main Ingredients
Sour Cream
Sour cream is a key ingredient in Aunt Anne’s Coffee Cake, providing moisture and a rich, tangy flavor. It helps to create a tender crumb and adds depth to the overall taste of the cake. Sour cream’s acidity also reacts with the baking soda, giving the cake a light and fluffy texture.
Streusel Topping
The streusel topping is what sets this coffee cake apart. Made with flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter, it creates a sweet, crunchy layer that contrasts beautifully with the moist cake. The streusel adds both texture and flavor, making each bite a delightful experience.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the cake, adding a subtle sweetness and a warm aroma. It’s a classic ingredient in many baked goods and is essential for bringing out the best in the other flavors in the coffee cake.
Brown Sugar
Used in the streusel topping, brown sugar adds a caramel-like sweetness and a bit of moisture. It helps to create the perfect crumbly texture that makes the topping irresistible.
Butter
Butter adds richness and flavor to both the cake and the streusel topping. Its fat content helps to create a tender, moist crumb in the cake and a crunchy, satisfying texture in the streusel.
Conclusion
Aunt Anne’s Coffee Cake is a timeless recipe that brings comfort and joy to any occasion. With its moist, tender cake and irresistible streusel topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Follow this guide to make the perfect coffee cake, and enjoy the delicious results with your loved ones. Happy baking!
