Favorite Coffee Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 25 min Serves: 9 Cuisine: American

A moist, flavorful coffee cake with a tender crumb and sweet topping, perfect for breakfast or brunch, appealing to those who love comforting baked treats.

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Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cups flour
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup shortening
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1 egg

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  2. Grease an 8-inch square pan, an 8-inch round pan, or a 9x9-inch pan.
  3. In a bowl, blend all ingredients except the topping.
  4. Beat vigorously for 1/2 minute.
  5. Spread batter in the prepared pan.
  6. Sprinkle topping over the batter.
  7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Serve warm.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening. If you're out of milk, you can substitute with a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk. Be sure to mix the batter just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or vanilla extract can elevate the flavor. This recipe is versatile enough to adapt with fruits like blueberries or nuts if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This coffee cake is best served warm, making it a delightful treat for breakfast or brunch. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a more indulgent option, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also enjoy it alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal.

Storage & Reheating

Allow the coffee cake to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for about a week. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or for a few minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Favorite Coffee Cake contains roughly 304 calories, with 5g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1182mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).

304 kcal 15% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.2g 10% DV
Total Fat 5.7g 7% DV
Carbs 59g 21% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 9.2g 18% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1182.4mg 51% DV
Potassium 313.9mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 121.6mg 41% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 67mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 3.8mg 4% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 2% DV
Calcium 307.7mg 24% DV
Iron 2.6mg 15% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just spread it in the pan before baking. Alternatively, bake the cake, let it cool, and store it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, then serve it warm.

What can I use as a topping for the coffee cake?

A simple streusel topping made from flour, sugar, and butter works well. You could also sprinkle cinnamon sugar or use chopped nuts for added crunch. For a fruity twist, consider adding fresh berries on top before baking.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, this coffee cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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