Why You’ll Love this Buttermilk Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe
If you’re looking for a delightful treat to enjoy with your morning coffee, you’ll love this Buttermilk Streusel Coffee Cake recipe. It’s incredibly moist, thanks to the buttermilk, and the streusel topping adds a wonderful crunch that perfectly complements the soft cake.
Each bite bursts with flavor, especially with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. I love how easy this recipe is to whip up, making it perfect for unexpected guests or a cozy weekend brunch.
Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible. Trust me, you’ll be reaching for seconds!
Ingredients of Buttermilk Streusel Coffee Cake
When it comes to baking a coffee cake that’s bursting with flavor and just the right amount of sweetness, the ingredients you choose are key. This Buttermilk Streusel Coffee Cake is no exception. Let’s explore what you’ll need to create this delightful treat that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. You’ll be amazed at how simple it’s to gather these ingredients, and soon enough, your kitchen will be filled with the most mouthwatering aromas!
Here’s a list of what you’ll need for the Buttermilk Streusel Coffee Cake:
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for the streusel topping)
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup sugar (for the streusel topping)
- 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for the streusel topping)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for the streusel topping)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (for the streusel topping)
- 16 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for the cake)
- 2 cups sugar (for the cake)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons coffee extract or 2 teaspoons freshly brewed espresso
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (for the cake)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Now, let’s chat a little bit about these ingredients. First off, buttermilk is a game-changer in this recipe. It adds moisture and a slight tang that elevates the flavor of the cake beautifully.
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. As for the streusel topping, feel free to get creative—add in some chocolate chips or dried fruit if that’s your jam.
And don’t forget about the walnuts; they add a nice crunch and earthy flavor, but if nuts aren’t your thing, you can easily leave them out. Whatever you decide, just remember to have fun with it! Happy baking!
How to Make Buttermilk Streusel Coffee Cake
Making Buttermilk Streusel Coffee Cake is easier than you might think, and the result is a deliciously moist cake that’s perfect for any occasion—or even just a cozy afternoon at home.
To kick things off, preheat your oven to 300°F. This low and slow baking is key to achieving that rich texture we all crave. While waiting for the oven to warm up, grab your 10-inch Bundt pan or tube pan and give it a good greasing and flouring. Trust me, you don’t want your beautiful cake to stick to the pan and ruin your moment of triumph.
Next, let’s plunge into the streusel topping. In a bowl, combine 3/4 cup light brown sugar, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs, 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a hint of ground nutmeg (a mere 1/4 teaspoon).
Use a wooden spoon to mix everything together until it’s crumbly and well combined. Set this heavenly mixture aside; it’s going to add that irresistible crunch on top of your cake.
Now, onto the cake itself. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 16 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter and 2 cups of sugar until it’s light and fluffy—think clouds, not bricks.
Then, crack in 4 large eggs, adding them two at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Pour in 2 cups of buttermilk, along with 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 2 teaspoons of coffee extract (or freshly brewed espresso, if you’re feeling fancy).
Sift together 4 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Now, here comes the fun part. Fill your prepared pan halfway with the batter (which should be thick and luscious), then sprinkle about 2/3 of your streusel topping on top.
Pour the rest of the batter over it, and finally, sprinkle the remaining streusel on top. Bake the cake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Once baked, let it cool for a bit before you flip it onto a plate. Remember, patience is key here; you want to preserve that beautiful streusel topping.
When you finally slice into it, the aroma will be so delightful, you might just find yourself doing a little happy dance in the kitchen. Enjoy!
Buttermilk Streusel Coffee Cake Substitutions & Variations
There are several easy substitutions and variations you can try to make the Buttermilk Streusel Coffee Cake uniquely yours.
For a nut-free option, swap walnuts for sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. You can also use Greek yogurt in place of buttermilk for a tangy twist.
If you want a fruity touch, toss in some blueberries or chopped apples into the batter. For a richer flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or swapping half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat.
Experiment with different extracts, like almond or maple, to find your favorite combination. The possibilities are endless, so have fun with it!
What to Serve with Buttermilk Streusel Coffee Cake
What pairs perfectly with a slice of Buttermilk Streusel Coffee Cake?
I love serving it alongside a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich latte, as the flavors complement each other beautifully.
For a lighter option, a glass of cold milk enhances the cake’s sweetness.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas for a invigorating contrast.
I sometimes whip up a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, turning it into a delightful dessert.
Whatever you choose, this cake is sure to shine on your table!
Additional Tips & Notes
While baking the Buttermilk Streusel Coffee Cake, I’ve found a few tips that can enhance your experience.
First, make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature; it helps with a smoother batter. I also recommend sifting the dry ingredients to avoid lumps.
If you want a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the batter. For an extra moist cake, don’t overbake; check it a few minutes early.
Finally, let it cool completely before flipping it out of the pan to preserve that delicious streusel topping. Enjoy the baking process!