Grandma Stillman'S Coffee Cake
Grandma Stillman's Coffee Cake features moist, tender loaves infused with warm spices and a crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping. Pecan halves add a nutty finish, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat. Its homemade charm appeals to those who love classic, comforting baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix melted butter, sugar, egg, sour milk, and baking soda in a bowl.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then add to the wet mixture. Stir only until well blended.
- Pour batter into greased or buttered small loaf pans (2 x 2 1/2 x 6 inches).
- Sprinkle the top of each loaf with a cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Press pecan halves onto the surface of each loaf.
- Bake at 325°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using buttermilk instead of sour milk. If you don't have cinnamon sugar on hand, you can easily make your own by mixing equal parts of cinnamon and sugar. Be careful not to overmix the batter; stir just until combined to keep the cake tender. This recipe can also be adapted for a gluten-free option using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
This delightful coffee cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. For a fun twist, try serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the coffee cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer bag. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Stillman'S Coffee Cake contains roughly 514 calories, with 9g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1455mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).
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 use regular milk instead of sour milk?
Yes, you can use regular milk in this recipe. To replicate the tanginess of sour milk, add one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to the milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.
How can I make this coffee cake more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding vanilla extract or a handful of chocolate chips to the batter. You can also incorporate additional spices like cardamom or allspice for a unique twist. Pairing it with a dollop of cream cheese frosting can also elevate its taste.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coffee cake a day ahead of time. Just make sure to store it covered to keep it fresh. If you prefer, you can also freeze it after baking, allowing you to enjoy this delicious treat whenever you like.
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).