Coffee Cake Loaf
There’s something incredibly comforting about a slice of Coffee Cake Loaf. The sweet aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes, the tender crumb, and the delightful cinnamon swirl make it an irresistible treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Whether paired with your morning coffee or enjoyed as a sweet indulgence, this loaf is sure to become a favorite.
Top Reasons to Make Coffee Cake Loaf
- Perfect for Sharing: This moist loaf is great for gatherings, brunches, or simply enjoying with family.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, it’s accessible even for novice bakers.
- Versatile Recipe: You can customize it with your favorite add-ins like nuts or fruits.
- Freezes Well: Make a double batch and freeze one for later enjoyment!
What’s in the Bowl
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed): This adds moisture and a rich flavor to the loaf.
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon (ground): A warm spice that complements the cake beautifully.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the loaf, giving it structure.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: For leavening, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to create that perfect rise.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Provides richness and moisture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs (room temperature): Essential for binding and structure.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Contributes to the moistness and tangy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Before You Start: Equipment
- Loaf Pan: A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan works perfectly for this recipe.
- Mixing Bowls: Use one large bowl for the wet ingredients and another for the dry.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to success.
- Whisk and Spatula: For mixing and folding the batter smoothly.
- Oven Mitts: Always a must when handling hot pans!
Coffee Cake Loaf Made Stepwise
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. This will be used to create a delightful swirl in your loaf.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In another large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar mixture until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 6: Incorporate the Buttermilk
Mix in the buttermilk until thoroughly combined.
Step 7: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay!
Step 8: Layer the Batter and Cinnamon Mixture
Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top. Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon layer and finish with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
Step 9: Bake
Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Adaptations for Special Diets
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the buttermilk with a non-dairy milk and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Reduced Sugar: You can reduce the amount of granulated sugar by half for a less sweet cake.
- Add-ins: Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.
Don’t Do This
- Don’t skip the buttermilk; it’s essential for the moisture and flavor!
- Avoid overmixing the batter, as it can lead to a dense cake.
- Don’t open the oven door too early; this can cause the loaf to sink.
- Never slice the loaf while it’s still warm; it needs to cool to maintain its structure.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
Let your Coffee Cake Loaf cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop a slice in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up.
Questions People Ask
Can I make this recipe into muffins instead?
Absolutely! Pour the batter into a muffin tin and reduce the baking time to 20-25 minutes. Enjoy individual servings of this delicious Coffee Cake!
What can I serve with Coffee Cake Loaf?
This loaf pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea, but you can also enjoy it with a dollop of whipped cream or a spread of cream cheese for an extra indulgence.
How do I know when my Coffee Cake Loaf is done baking?
Use a toothpick or skewer inserted into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your loaf is done. If it has wet batter on it, continue baking for a few more minutes.
Can I add fruits to the batter?
Yes, you can fold in fruits like blueberries or chopped apples into the batter for added flavor. Just be mindful of the moisture content to ensure the loaf bakes properly.
Ready to Cook?
With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, Coffee Cake Loaf is a wonderful addition to any baker’s repertoire. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning or hosting friends for brunch, this loaf is sure to bring joy to your table. Gather your ingredients and prepare to indulge in the sweet, comforting taste of homemade Coffee Cake Loaf. Happy baking!
Coffee Cake Loaf
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. This will be used to create a delightful swirl in your loaf.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- Step 4: In another large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar mixture until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Step 5: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
- Step 6: Mix in the buttermilk until thoroughly combined.
- Step 7: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay!
- Step 8: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top. Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon layer and finish with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
- Step 9: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 10: Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with a non-dairy milk and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
- Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for extra flavor.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
