Grandma's Coffee Cake: A Sweet and Nostalgic Treat
Grandma's coffee cake is more than just a delicious dessert; it's a warm hug in a pan, a taste of home, and a reminder of cherished memories. This classic recipe, passed down through generations, is simple to make, yet delivers a symphony of flavors that will transport you back to your childhood.
Why Grandma's Coffee Cake Is So Special
What makes grandma's coffee cake so special? It's the combination of simple ingredients, the comforting aroma while it bakes, and the perfect balance of sweet and crumbly textures. The cake itself is moist and tender, while the streusel topping adds a satisfying crunch and a touch of sweetness.
The Ingredients that Make It Great
A Classic Recipe
- Flour: The foundation of the cake, providing structure and texture.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a moist crumb.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- Milk: Provides moisture and helps create a tender crumb.
- Butter: Adds flavor and richness.
- Baking powder: Helps the cake rise and creates a light and airy texture.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor and adds warmth.
The Crumbly Topping
- Flour: Provides structure and texture.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a crumbly texture.
- Butter: Adds flavor and richness.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
Making Grandma's Coffee Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Get Baking!
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Make the cake batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, and melted butter, and mix until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Prepare the streusel topping: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the coffee cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for a Perfect Coffee Cake
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Just mix until the ingredients are combined.
- Use cold butter for the streusel topping: Cold butter will help create a crumbly texture.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry cake.
- Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of glaze.
Enjoy the Taste of Home
Grandma's coffee cake is a timeless treat that evokes warm memories and brings families together. Whether you're enjoying it with a cup of coffee on a chilly morning or sharing it with loved ones, each bite will transport you back to a simpler time.
