Hungarian coffee cake is a delightful treat that brings a taste of Eastern Europe right to our kitchen. Known for its tender crumb and rich, nutty topping, this cake pairs perfectly with a warm cup of coffee or tea. It’s a classic recipe that has been enjoyed for generations, offering a comforting blend of flavors and textures.
What makes this cake truly special is its simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together effortlessly. Whether we’re baking for a cozy morning or an afternoon gathering, this Hungarian coffee cake never fails to impress. Let’s dive into a recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to savor.
Ingredients
To make our Hungarian Coffee Cake truly shine, we carefully select each ingredient to build layers of flavor and texture. Below you will find the organized list for the cake base, nut filling, and the crunchy topping that creates the perfect balance in every bite.
Cake Ingredients
We start by preparing the tender, moist cake foundation with these essential components:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
Nut Filling Ingredients
This is the heart of the nutty richness in our coffee cake, creating a luscious textured layer:
- 1 ½ cups finely chopped walnuts or pecans
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Topping Ingredients
The crunch and slight caramel notes come from this irresistible topping:
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
| Category | Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cake | All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups | Sifted |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons | ||
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon | ||
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | ||
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup | Softened | |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | ||
| Eggs | 3 large | ||
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Pure | |
| Sour cream or plain yogurt | 1 cup | ||
| Nut Filling | Walnuts or pecans | 1 ½ cups | Finely chopped |
| Granulated sugar | ⅔ cup | ||
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 2 tablespoons | ||
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | ||
| Egg whites | 2 large | ||
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Pure | |
| Topping | Walnuts or pecans | 1 cup | Chopped |
| Granulated sugar | ⅓ cup | ||
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons | Melted | |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
Equipment Needed
To create an authentic Hungarian Coffee Cake, having the right equipment is essential for a smooth baking process and perfect results. Here’s a detailed list of the tools we use to achieve the ideal tender crumb and rich nutty topping:
- Mixing Bowls: Use a set of medium and large mixing bowls to combine the cake base, nut filling, and topping ingredients separately. Glass or stainless steel bowls work best for easy mixing and cleaning.
- Electric Mixer: A hand or stand mixer helps us cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, and beat egg whites to soft peaks for the nut filling. This ensures the proper texture essential to the cake’s tender crumb and moist nut layer.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measuring is crucial. We measure all dry and wet ingredients accurately for consistent results every time.
- Sifter or Fine Mesh Strainer: To aerate the flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder, we sift these dry ingredients. This prevents clumps and promotes a light cake texture.
- Spatula and Wooden Spoon: For folding ingredients and smoothing the batter evenly in the pan.
- 9×13 Inch Baking Pan: We use a standard rectangle pan to bake the coffee cake evenly. It accommodates the three layers (cake, nut filling, and topping) perfectly.
- Parchment Paper or Non-stick Spray: Lining the pan with parchment or spraying it prevents the cake from sticking and allows for easy removal once baked.
- Food Processor or Nut Chopper: To finely chop walnuts or pecans for the nut filling and topping. A coarse chop offers the right balance of texture and crunch.
- Cooling Rack: After baking, we cool the cake on a wire rack to avoid condensation and soggy bottom layers.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Mixing ingredients separately |
| Electric Mixer | Creaming, whipping egg whites |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Precise ingredient measurement |
| Sifter | Aerate dry ingredients |
| Spatula/Wooden Spoon | Folding and spreading batter |
| 9×13 Inch Baking Pan | Baking the layered cake |
| Parchment Paper | Prevent sticking, easy removal |
| Food Processor | Chopping nuts finely |
| Cooling Rack | Cooling baked cake evenly |
“Using the proper equipment not only streamlines the baking process but guarantees the texture and flavor that define Hungarian Coffee Cake.“
With all these tools ready at hand, we can move confidently to assembling this delicious layered treat.
Preparation
Let’s begin by preparing the Hungarian Coffee Cake dough and nut filling with precision. Following each step carefully ensures a tender crumb and rich, flavorful layers.
Preparing the Dough
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- In a large mixing bowl, cream 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) with 1 cup granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add 3 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and create a smooth batter.
- Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for aroma and flavor.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and 1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt, starting and ending with the dry mix. Beat gently on low speed just until combined—do not overmix, or the cake will be dense.
- Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking pan using a spatula. The batter will be thick but spreadable.
Preparing the Nut Filling
- In a clean bowl, combine the nut filling ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups finely chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- In a separate small bowl, beat 2 egg whites until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the nut mixture to create a moist, spreadable filling.
- Carefully spread this nut filling over the prepared dough base, covering it evenly without pressing down too firmly.
| Step | Ingredients | Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Dough Preparation | Flour, baking powder, soda, salt, butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, sour cream | Whisk dry, cream butter & sugar, add eggs, combine with dry & sour cream |
| Nut Filling Preparation | Nuts, sugar, cocoa powder, cinnamon, egg whites, vanilla | Mix dry, beat egg whites, fold gently |
Together these layers form the foundation of the authentic Hungarian Coffee Cake experience before we add its signature crunchy topping.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to assemble, bake, and finish our Hungarian Coffee Cake with its signature rich nutty flavor and crispy topping.
Assembling the Cake
- Prepare the baking pan by lining a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with non-stick spray.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is incorporated before adding the next. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Incorporate sour cream: Alternate adding the dry ingredient mixture and sour cream or yogurt into the creamed butter mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Prepare the nut filling:
- In a separate bowl, combine the finely chopped walnuts or pecans, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and ground cinnamon.
- Fold in the beaten egg whites and vanilla extract gently until evenly mixed.
- Layer the nut filling over the cake batter, spreading it carefully and evenly.
Baking the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before you start assembling.
- Place the assembled cake into the center rack of the oven.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the cake base (avoiding the nut layer) comes out clean.
- Keep an eye on the cake starting at 30 minutes to prevent over-baking.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a cooling rack for 15 minutes before adding the topping.
| Baking Temperature | Time | Indicator |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 35-40 minutes | Toothpick comes out clean |
Preparing the Topping
- In a small bowl, thoroughly mix the chopped walnuts or pecans with granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Add melted butter to the nut mixture and stir until all nuts are coated evenly.
- After the cake has cooled for 15 minutes, sprinkle the nut topping evenly over the surface.
- For a perfectly crunchy and slightly caramelized finish, return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Remove the cake and allow it to cool completely on the rack before slicing.
Pro Tip: The final crunchy topping offers a delightful texture contrast to the tender cake base and creamy nut filling, delivering an authentic Hungarian Coffee Cake experience in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy the Hungarian Coffee Cake we recommend serving it slightly warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Here are several ways to enhance your experience:
- Pair with Freshly Brewed Coffee or Tea
This cake is traditionally enjoyed alongside a robust coffee or a soothing cup of tea. The nutty topping complements the bitterness of coffee or the floral notes of black tea perfectly.
- Add a Dollop of Whipped Cream
For extra indulgence, top each slice with a spoonful of lightly sweetened whipped cream. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the cake’s crunchy nut topping.
- Serve with Fresh Berries or Fruit Compote
Brighten the plate with fresh raspberries, strawberries, or a warm fruit compote such as cherry or blueberry. The tartness balances the cake’s sweetness and adds a fresh burst.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar
A light dusting of powdered sugar enhances the cake’s appearance and adds a subtle sweetness. Use a fine sieve for an even, delicate coating.
Serving Temperature Guide
| Serving Temperature | Effect |
|---|---|
| Slightly Warm (about 90°F / 32°C) | Softens the crumb, melts the topping slightly |
| Room Temperature (68–72°F / 20–22°C) | Preserves crunchy texture, lets flavors settle |
Presentation Tips
- Slice the cake into generous squares to showcase the layered nut filling and topping.
- Use a serrated knife to avoid compressing the crumb.
- Serve on decorative plates to highlight the rustic elegance of this traditional recipe.
“The key to our Hungarian Coffee Cake experience lies not just in baking but in how we serve it—with warmth, simple accompaniments, and attention to detail.”
These Serving Suggestions make the Hungarian Coffee Cake not only a delicious treat but also a centerpiece for any coffee break or dessert spread.
Storage Tips
To keep our Hungarian Coffee Cake fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential. Follow these guidelines to maintain the cake’s tender crumb and crunchy topping.
Room Temperature Storage
For short-term storage, wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Keep it in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This method preserves moisture and prevents the nut topping from becoming soggy.
- Store at room temperature for up to 2 days
- Avoid storing near humid areas to maintain crispness
Refrigeration
To extend freshness beyond 2 days, refrigerate the wrapped or containerized cake. The cake will stay moist but may slightly firm up due to cold.
- Wrap the cake in foil or place in an airtight container
- Chill for up to 5 days in the refrigerator
- Allow cake to come to room temperature before serving for best texture
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
We can freeze the Hungarian Coffee Cake to enjoy it later without losing quality. Follow these steps to freeze properly:
- Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
- Encase wrapped portions in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label with the date to track storage time.
- Freeze for up to 3 months
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for 2-3 hours
- Reheat gently in a low oven (300°F) to revive the crunchy topping
| Storage Method | Wrapping Material | Storage Duration | Temperature | Serving Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Plastic wrap / Airtight container | 2 days | 68-72°F (20-22°C) | Serve slightly warm or room temp |
| Refrigeration | Foil / Airtight container | 5 days | 35-40°F (2-4°C) | Bring to room temp before serving |
| Freezing | Plastic wrap + Foil | 3 months | 0°F (-18°C) | Thaw completely then warm gently |
“Proper storage preserves the rich flavors and satisfying texture that make our Hungarian Coffee Cake a beloved classic.“
By following these steps, we ensure every slice remains as enjoyable as freshly baked, keeping it ready for coffee time or special occasions.
Conclusion
Hungarian coffee cake brings a perfect balance of tender crumb and crunchy nutty topping that’s hard to resist. With straightforward ingredients and clear steps, it’s a rewarding bake for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
Enjoying it with a warm cup of coffee or tea truly elevates the experience. Whether for a casual afternoon treat or a special gathering, this cake never fails to impress and satisfy.
By following the recipe and storage tips, we can keep this delightful cake fresh and ready whenever the craving hits. It’s more than just a dessert—it’s a comforting tradition worth sharing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Hungarian coffee cake special?
Hungarian coffee cake is known for its tender crumb, rich nutty filling, and crunchy topping. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea and is cherished for its comforting flavors and easy preparation.
What are the main ingredients needed for Hungarian coffee cake?
The cake requires all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, sour cream or yogurt, nuts (walnuts or pecans), cocoa powder, cinnamon, and egg whites for the filling and topping.
What equipment do I need to bake this cake?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, sifter, spatula, 9×13 inch baking pan, parchment paper or non-stick spray, food processor, and a cooling rack.
How do I prepare the nut filling for the cake?
Mix finely chopped nuts with sugar, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and vanilla. Fold in beaten egg whites gently to create a rich, textured filling.
What is the baking temperature and time for Hungarian coffee cake?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the assembled cake for 35 to 40 minutes until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
How should I serve Hungarian coffee cake?
Serve it slightly warm or at room temperature with coffee or tea. Add whipped cream, fresh berries, fruit compote, or powdered sugar for added flavor and presentation.
How can I store Hungarian coffee cake to keep it fresh?
Wrap the cake tightly and store at room temperature for up to 2 days, refrigerate for 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw properly to maintain its texture and flavor.