There’s something truly comforting about enjoying a slice of freshly baked coffee cake. This dish balances sweetness with a hint of cinnamon, creating a warm treat perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a quiet moment on a weekday, a leisurely weekend breakfast, or part of a gathering with friends and family, this cake offers a simple yet satisfying experience. It’s practical and versatile, fitting seamlessly into different parts of the day. Allow yourself to indulge in this easy recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Sourdough Coffee Cake
This sourdough coffee cake is both easy to prepare and dependable for consistent results. Its comforting texture and balanced flavor make it perfect for any occasion, while the incorporation of sourdough starter enhances its character. With this recipe, you can enjoy a delightful treat that brings practical value to everyday cooking.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking pan
Ingredients
- 1 cup sourdough starter (discard or active) (adds moisture and flavor)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (provides moisture and richness)
- 1 large egg (room temperature) (binds ingredients together)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (structural base for the cake)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (sweetens the cake)
- 1/2 tsp salt (enhances flavor)
- 1 tsp baking soda (provides leavening)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (adds warmth and spice)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for the swirl) (adds moisture and sweetness)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for the swirl) (reinforces spice flavor)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping) (sweetens the crumble)
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted) (adds richness to the topping)
- 1 Tbsp flour (for crumble) (helps bind crumb topping)
How to Make Irresistible Sourdough Coffee Cake
Step 1. Start by preheating your oven to a temperature suitable for baking. This step ensures that when you’re ready to place your coffee cake in the oven, it begins cooking evenly right away.
Step 2. In a mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter and vegetable oil. Use a whisk to blend these two ingredients until they’re well combined. The starter should add a nice tangy flavor and a bit of moisture that enhances the overall texture of the cake.
Step 3. Next, add the large egg to the mixture. Whisk everything together until the egg is fully incorporated. You want a smooth consistency, so ensure there are no streaks of egg visible in the batter.
Step 4. Slowly incorporate the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, baking soda, and one teaspoon of ground cinnamon into the bowl. Mix gently but thoroughly, taking care not to over-mix. You’re aiming for a batter that is just combined, with a few small lumps remaining, which will provide a tender texture to your cake.
Step 5. In a separate small bowl, make the swirl mixture by combining the brown sugar and one teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This will create the sweet and spicy layer within the cake, adding depth to each bite.
Step 6. Grease your baking pan and pour half of the batter into it, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This layer serves as the base where the swirl will be added, and it’s important to ensure it’s even for the best results.
Step 7. Sprinkle the swirl mixture evenly over the batter in the pan. This adds a sweet contrast to the cake and will melt into the batter as it bakes, creating a delightful flavor surprise.
Step 8. Carefully spoon the remaining batter over the swirl mixture. Spread it out gently, covering the brown sugar mixture completely. This helps to trap the flavorful swirl inside, while the top layer cakes beautifully during baking.
Step 9. To prepare the crumble topping, combine the brown sugar, melted unsalted butter, and one tablespoon of flour in a bowl. Mix until crumbly, ensuring the butter is evenly distributed throughout the sugar and flour.
Step 10. Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the top of the batter in the pan. This will create a delightful crunchy finish once the coffee cake has baked, adding texture and sweetness.
Step 11. Place the pan into the preheated oven. As it bakes, keep an eye on the cake and look for a golden-brown color on the top, indicating it’s ready. The cake should feel firm but springy to the touch when it’s done.
Serving Suggestions
This sourdough coffee cake is ideal for breakfast, offering a satisfying start to your day. It also makes for a delightful snack, perfect for a midday pick-me-up or a cozy family meal. If you have leftovers, enjoy them at room temperature or warmed slightly for a comforting evening treat. The versatility of this cake allows it to be enjoyed any time, making it a reliable addition to your recipe collection.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Make sure your sourdough starter is well-mixed before using, as this ensures even flavor throughout the cake.
- Room temperature ingredients blend more easily, so let your egg sit out for a bit before mixing.
- Avoid over-mixing to keep the cake tender. The goal is to combine the ingredients without developing the gluten in the flour too much.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold eggs or starter can lead to uneven mixing. Always use room-temperature ingredients to achieve a consistent batter.
- Over-Mixing the Batter: Overworking the batter can produce a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Skipping preheating can affect the baking time and texture. Ensure the oven is properly heated before placing the cake inside for even baking.
- Ignoring the Swirl Layer: Not adding the swirl can lead to missing the cake’s depth of flavor. Always remember this step for a well-rounded taste.
- Using the Wrong Baking Pan Size: A pan that’s too small can overflow, while a too-large pan may dry the cake out. Stick with the recommended size for best results.
- Cutting Too Soon: Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. This ensures it holds its shape and makes for cleaner cuts.
Variations & Substitutions
Consider adding a handful of nuts for added crunch or swapping the ground cinnamon with another spice like nutmeg for a different flavor profile. You can also reduce the sugar slightly for a less sweet, more balanced taste.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sourdough coffee cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it, where it can last about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave, so it regains its tender texture.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 250
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 22g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 200mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this coffee cake can be made a day ahead for a gathering. Simply store it covered at room temperature to maintain freshness.
How long does it last in the fridge?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, the coffee cake can last for about a week. Just ensure it’s sealed well to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, sourdough coffee cake freezes well. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag to keep them fresh for up to three months.
What can I substitute for one ingredient?
If you need to replace the vegetable oil, melted coconut oil can work well, though it may add a subtle flavor. Just keep the measurement the same.
Why didn’t my recipe turn out as expected?
Common reasons include using cold ingredients, over-mixing the batter, or not preheating the oven. Make sure to follow the instructions closely for the best outcome.
Final Thoughts
Making this sourdough coffee cake is not only straightforward but also rewarding. With its comforting texture and well-balanced sweetness, it’s a recipe that fits seamlessly into everyday life. Each bite brings a sense of warmth, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or quiet mornings at home. Know that baking can be a simple pleasure that brightens your day. Enjoy this recipe and the cozy moments that come with it.
Sourdough Coffee Cake
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup sourdough starter (discard or active) adds moisture and flavor
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil provides moisture and richness
- 1 large egg (room temperature) binds ingredients together
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour structural base for the cake
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar sweetens the cake
- 1/2 tsp salt enhances flavor
- 1 tsp baking soda provides leavening
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice
Swirl and Topping
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for the swirl) adds moisture and sweetness
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for the swirl) reinforces spice flavor
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping) sweetens the crumble
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted) adds richness to the topping
- 1 Tbsp flour (for crumble) helps bind crumb topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter and vegetable oil. Whisk until well combined.
- Add the egg to the mixture and whisk until fully incorporated.
- Slowly incorporate the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, baking soda, and ground cinnamon. Mix gently until just combined.
Swirl and Assembly
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon to make the swirl mixture.
- Grease your baking pan and pour half of the batter into it, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle the swirl mixture evenly over the batter.
- Spoon the remaining batter over the swirl mixture, covering it completely.
- For the crumble topping, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, and flour until crumbly. Sprinkle it evenly over the top.
Baking
- Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown and springy to the touch.