Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake has become a beloved classic for good reason. This recipe delivers a moist tender crumb with a perfectly sweet cinnamon swirl that melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of coffee cake that turns an ordinary morning into a special occasion.
We love how simple ingredients come together to create something so comforting and flavorful. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast brunch or an afternoon treat this coffee cake pairs beautifully with a fresh cup of coffee or tea. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, making it a must-have recipe in our collection.
Ingredients
To create Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake with its signature moist texture and rich cinnamon swirl, we rely on simple yet quality ingredients. Let’s break down the components into dry, wet, and topping categories for ease and precision.
Dry Ingredients
These ingredients build the cake’s structure and provide its classic cinnamon flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for swirling)
Wet Ingredients
Our wet ingredients combine to form a smooth, tender crumb with a perfect balance of moistness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream (adds moisture and tenderizes)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Topping Ingredients
The topping delivers the distinct crunch and sweet-cinnamon bite that makes this coffee cake a true delight.
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional for added texture)
| Ingredient Category | Key Components | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Ingredients | Flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon | Ensure flour is sifted for lightness |
| Wet Ingredients | Butter, sour cream, eggs, vanilla | Butter softened, eggs at room temperature |
| Topping Ingredients | Brown sugar, cinnamon, cold butter, walnuts (optional) | Keep butter cold to create crumbly topping |
Pro Tip: Using sour cream in the batter enhances the moist crumb and gives the coffee cake that irresistible soft texture we love.
Equipment Needed
To make Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake perfectly every time, having the right equipment streamlines the process and ensures the ideal texture and flavor. Here’s what we use and recommend for this recipe:
- 9×13-inch baking pan
We prefer this size to achieve the perfect thickness and even baking throughout.
- Mixing bowls (at least two)
One for dry ingredients and one for wet ingredients, helping us keep the mixing clean and organized.
- Electric mixer or hand mixer
For creaming butter and sugar smoothly and incorporating wet ingredients evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons
Accuracy in measuring flour, sugar, cinnamon, and liquids is key to consistent results.
- Rubber spatula
Ideal for folding in ingredients and scraping every bit of batter from the bowl.
- Whisk
To blend dry ingredients uniformly and beat eggs well.
- Cooling rack
Enables the cake to cool evenly without sogginess forming underneath.
- Knife or toothpick
For testing doneness near the end of baking.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9×13-inch baking pan | Baking the coffee cake evenly |
| Mixing bowls | Separating dry and wet ingredient prep |
| Electric/hand mixer | Creaming butter and mixing batter |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Precise measurement for balanced flavors |
| Rubber spatula | Folding and scraping batter |
| Whisk | Blending dry ingredients and eggs |
| Cooling rack | Proper cake cooling without sogginess |
| Knife or toothpick | Checking cake doneness |
Using this equipment helps us create the cake’s characteristic moist texture and ensures the cinnamon swirl is perfectly distributed. Each tool plays a strategic role in bringing Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake from batter to bakery-worthy treat.
Prep Work
Before diving into mixing ingredients, completing the Prep Work ensures a smooth baking process and optimum results for Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake.
Preparing the Pan
We begin by preparing a 9×13-inch baking pan — the ideal size for our coffee cake to bake evenly and rise perfectly.
- Lightly grease the pan with unsalted butter or use a non-stick baking spray.
- For extra assurance against sticking, we recommend lining the bottom with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang to lift the cake out easily after baking.
- Finally, lightly dust the pan with a small amount of flour, shaking out any excess to create a thin, even coating.
This preparation guarantees the cake’s edges will not stick and helps maintain the beautiful cinnamon swirl we aim for.
Preheating the Oven
Preheating is critical to achieving the cake’s moist texture and well-baked crumb. Set the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully heat before placing the pan inside.
| Step | Temperature | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Oven Preheat | 350°F (175°C) | At least 15 minutes recommended |
We use this standard temperature to gently bake our coffee cake ensuring it cooks thoroughly without drying. Preheating also supports the correct activation of baking powder and soda, crucial for the cake’s rising and tender crumb.
By completing these prep steps carefully, we set the foundation for baking Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake to its delicious potential.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake with its signature moist texture and irresistible cinnamon swirl.
Making the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- In a separate bowl, cream 1 cup softened unsalted butter using an electric mixer until smooth.
- Add to the butter:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Beat these together until the mixture is fully combined and creamy.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet using a rubber spatula. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter which keeps the cake tender and moist.
Preparing the Topping
- In a small bowl, combine the topping ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Brown sugar | ¾ cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 tsp |
| Cold unsalted butter, cubed | 6 tbsp |
| Chopped walnuts (optional) | ½ cup |
- Using a pastry cutter or fork, cut the cold butter into the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the optional walnuts for added crunch and texture.
Assembling the Coffee Cake
- Pour half of the batter evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch pan that was greased and dusted with flour.
- Sprinkle half of the topping mixture evenly over the batter layer.
- Spread the remaining batter evenly over the topping layer without mixing the layers.
- Finish by sprinkling the remaining topping mixture on top to create that signature cinnamon swirl and crunchy crust.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40-45 minutes.
- Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Once baked, transfer the cake to a cooling rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure and moistness.
Pro Tip: Resting the cake ensures the cinnamon swirl sets beautifully throughout each slice for that classic Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake experience.
Baking Directions
Let’s bring together all our preparations and guide you through baking Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake to perfection. Following precise baking times and temperatures ensures the cake’s famous moist texture and irresistible cinnamon swirl.
Baking Time and Temperature
Preheat your oven to a steady 350°F (175°C) before placing the coffee cake inside. Bake the cake on the middle rack to promote even heat circulation. Maintain this temperature consistently for:
| Step | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Baking the Coffee Cake | 350°F (175°C) | 40–45 minutes |
This baking window allows the cake to rise beautifully while keeping its tender crumb moist and flavorful. Avoid opening the oven door during baking as it can cause temperature fluctuations affecting the cake’s texture.
Checking for Doneness
To verify that Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake has baked perfectly, use a toothpick or a cake tester:
- Insert it into the center of the cake.
- If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.
- If batter clings to it, continue baking, checking every 3-5 minutes to avoid overbaking.
Additionally, notice these visual cues:
- The edges pull slightly away from the pan.
- The top is golden-brown with a firm springy texture when lightly pressed.
“Remember, the moistness is what makes this coffee cake iconic, so be careful to bake just until done.”
Once done, place the cake on a cooling rack for at least 15 minutes. This resting period lets the cinnamon swirl set and enhances flavors as the cake cools evenly.
Cooling and Serving
Proper Cooling and Serving of Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake are essential to fully enjoy its moist texture and rich cinnamon swirl. Let’s walk through the best practices to cool our cake perfectly and serve it deliciously.
Cooling Instructions
After removing the coffee cake from the oven, immediately transfer the baking pan to a wire cooling rack. This step allows air to circulate around the pan, preventing sogginess and helping the cake maintain its delicate crumb. Let the cake cool uncovered for at least 15 to 20 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it lets the cinnamon swirl set beautifully, tightening the structure of each slice.
Here is a cooling timeline for clarity:
| Step | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Remove from oven | Immediate | Prevents overcooking |
| Cool in pan on rack | 15 to 20 mins | Sets texture, cinnamon swirl stabilizes |
| Optional: Remove from pan | After cooling | Makes slicing easier and neater |
If desired, we can carefully lift the cake out using parchment paper after 20 minutes to cool it further on the rack. This helps ensure that the bottom does not retain moisture, preserving that classic coffee cake texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serving Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake fresh and slightly warm elevates its irresistible flavor. Try slicing the cake into generous pieces and serve with:
- A piping hot cup of freshly brewed coffee or black tea to complement the cinnamon aroma.
- A dollop of whipped cream or a light spread of butter, which melts deliciously on the warm surface.
- Fresh berries or sliced fruit on the side for a refreshing contrast.
For breakfast or brunch gatherings, present the cake on a decorative platter with a small bowl of powdered sugar or cinnamon for guests to dust as desired.
“Serving tip: Warm slices slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a cozy, just-baked experience that delights every bite.”
The rich, moist crumb combined with the crunchy cinnamon topping makes Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake a timeless favorite that shines best when cooled properly and served thoughtfully.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake with minimal morning effort, we recommend these effective make-ahead strategies. Planning ahead preserves the cake’s signature moist texture and robust cinnamon swirl while saving us valuable time.
Prepare the Batter in Advance
We can mix the coffee cake batter up to 24 hours ahead. Store it tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Before baking, allow the batter to come to room temperature for 20-30 minutes. This helps achieve an even rise and perfect crumb structure during baking.
| Step | Instructions | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mix batter | Follow the recipe to batter prep | Use fresh ingredients |
| Cover & refrigerate | Seal bowl with plastic wrap or a lid | Up to 24 hours |
| Bring to room temperature | Let stand 20-30 minutes before baking | Ensures even baking |
Assemble the Coffee Cake the Night Before
For an easy morning, we can layer the batter and crumb topping in the prepared 9×13-inch pan the evening before and cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Keep it refrigerated overnight to preserve moisture and flavor. The next day, bake it straight from the fridge, but add 5-7 minutes extra baking time to ensure it’s cooked through.
Bake and Freeze for Longer Storage
If we want to make the coffee cake several days ahead or freeze it for up to 3 months, follow these steps:
- Bake the coffee cake according to instructions.
- Let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to restore the fresh-baked experience.
Quick Reference Make-Ahead Guide
| Make-Ahead Method | Storage Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Batter prepared ahead | Up to 24 hours (fridge) | Bring to room temp before baking |
| Assemble night before | 12-24 hours (fridge) | Cover tightly, bake with extra time |
| Fully baked & frozen | Up to 3 months (freezer) | Thaw overnight, warm before serving |
“Proper preparation is the secret to enjoying the deliciously moist crumb and cinnamon swirl of Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake with ease, even on busy mornings.”
Implementing these make-ahead tips ensures our cherished coffee cake remains a go-to comfort treat that can be ready whenever cravings strike.
Storing Leftovers
To keep Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake fresh and maintain its signature moist texture and rich cinnamon swirl, follow these storage guidelines carefully.
Short-Term Storage
- Wrap the cooled cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container or cake dome.
- Consume within 2 to 3 days for the best flavor and texture.
Refrigeration
If you want to store the coffee cake longer, refrigeration is ideal:
- Place the wrapped coffee cake or individual slices in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Before serving, allow slices to return to room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave for a fresh-baked feel.
Freezing for Longer Storage
For preserving our coffee cake beyond a few days, freezing is the best method:
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Whole Cake | Up to 3 months | Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil |
| Slices | Up to 3 months | Individually wrap slices for easy thawing |
- Freeze only after the cake has cooled completely to avoid sogginess.
- To thaw, transfer the wrapped cake or slices to the refrigerator overnight.
- Warm slices in a microwave for 15-20 seconds to revive freshness.
Pro Tip: “Proper storage helps preserve the delightful crumb, so every leftover bite tastes just like the first.”
By following these simple steps, we ensure every piece of Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake stays delicious and ready to enjoy anytime.
Conclusion
Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake is more than just a recipe—it’s a comforting tradition that brings warmth to any table. With its perfect balance of moist crumb and cinnamon sweetness, it’s a versatile treat that fits every occasion. Whether you’re baking it fresh or preparing ahead, this coffee cake never fails to impress.
We encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own. The simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible for bakers of all levels. Enjoy it alongside your favorite cup of coffee or tea and savor every delicious bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Carolyn’s Cafe Coffee Cake moist and flavorful?
The coffee cake’s moistness comes from sour cream in the wet ingredients, which adds tenderness. A cinnamon swirl and crumbly topping enhance its rich, comforting flavor.
What are the key dry ingredients needed for the coffee cake?
The key dry ingredients are all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
Which wet ingredients are used in the recipe?
The wet ingredients include softened unsalted butter, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract.
What equipment do I need to bake this coffee cake?
You will need a 9×13-inch baking pan, mixing bowls, an electric or hand mixer, measuring cups and spoons, a rubber spatula, a whisk, a cooling rack, and a toothpick or knife to test doneness.
How should I prep the baking pan?
Lightly grease the pan, optionally line it with parchment paper, and dust with flour to prevent sticking and preserve the cinnamon swirl.
At what temperature and for how long should I bake the coffee cake?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes on the middle oven rack without opening the door during baking.
How do I check if the coffee cake is done?
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The edges should pull away from the pan and the top be golden brown.
Should I let the cake cool before serving?
Yes, cool on a wire rack for 15-20 minutes to set the cinnamon swirl and avoid sogginess. It’s best served slightly warm with coffee or tea.
Can I prepare the batter in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Bring it to room temperature before baking or assemble and bake the next day with extra baking time.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for 2-3 days, refrigerate for up to 5 days in an airtight container, or freeze up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and warm before serving.