If you’re craving a warm, comforting treat that evokes the rugged charm of the Old West, then this cowboy coffee cake recipe is just what you need. This delightful cake is a perfect companion to a strong cup of coffee, whether you’re camping under the stars or enjoying a cozy morning at home.
It’s rich, moist, and packed with a cinnamon-sugar crumb topping that adds an irresistible texture and flavor. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity—minimal ingredients, easy steps, and a taste that feels like a nostalgic hug from the past.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner looking for an easy dessert, this cowboy coffee cake will quickly become a favorite. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite nuts or fruits.
Let’s saddle up and get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cowboy coffee cake is a timeless classic that brings a bit of rustic charm to your kitchen. Here’s why you’ll love making (and eating) it:
- Simple ingredients: No fancy components here—just pantry staples you likely already have.
- Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, it’s perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous dessert cravings.
- Delicious crumb topping: The cinnamon-sugar streusel adds the perfect crunch and sweetness.
- Moist and tender crumb: Buttery and soft on the inside, this cake is a real crowd-pleaser.
- Great for any occasion: Serve it at breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the crumb topping:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Equipment
- 9-inch square baking pan or 8×8 inch
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Whisk and/or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Fork or pastry cutter (for crumb topping)
- Cooling rack
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the crumb topping: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Add the cold cubed butter and use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, melted butter, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Assemble the cake: Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle half of the crumb topping over the batter. Repeat with the remaining batter and crumb topping, layering accordingly.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
- Serve and enjoy! This cake is best served warm or at room temperature with a fresh cup of coffee.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra special touch, try adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping for added crunch and flavor.”
- Use Greek yogurt: Substitute buttermilk with plain Greek yogurt thinned with a little milk if you don’t have buttermilk on hand.
- Make it fruity: Add 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries or chopped apples to the batter for a fruity twist.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the crumb topping for a deeper spice profile.
- Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 44 g |
| Sugar | 27 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This cowboy coffee cake pairs beautifully with a steaming mug of freshly brewed coffee or black tea. For an indulgent touch, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
It also makes a fantastic breakfast treat alongside scrambled eggs or fresh fruit.
If you’re looking for more easy and delicious recipes to complement your baking, check out these favorites:
- Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious
- Berry Cobbler Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy
- Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping
Conclusion
The cowboy coffee cake is a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor that captures the essence of traditional home baking with a rustic twist. Its crumbly cinnamon topping and moist interior make it an ideal treat for any time of day.
Whether you’re enjoying it around a campfire or at your breakfast table, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and comfort to anyone who tries it.
With minimal ingredients and easy steps, it’s a wonderful recipe for bakers of any skill level to master. Plus, the flexibility to add nuts or fruit means you can tailor it to your personal taste.
Try this cowboy coffee cake today and enjoy a slice of old-west warmth and hospitality in your own home.
📖 Recipe Card: Cowboy Coffee Cake
Description: A rustic, tender coffee cake with a cinnamon-sugar crumb topping perfect for breakfast or snack. Easy to make and pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT35M
Total Time: PT50M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 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
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
- In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and pecans for the crumb topping.
- Pour half of the batter into the pan, sprinkle half of the crumb topping.
- Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the crumb mixture.
- Bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool before slicing and serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 42 g
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