Tools Needed & Recipe Details
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools on hand to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Kitchen Tools:
- Bundt pan or 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Recipe Details:
- Servings: 10-12 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Filling and Topping:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a bundt pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a soft cake texture.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Mix until well combined but do not overmix.
3. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, chopped pecans or walnuts, and cinnamon. This will be used as both the filling and the topping for your cake.
4. Layer the Cake
Pour half of the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar-nut mixture evenly over the batter. Repeat with the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon mixture.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If using a 9×13-inch pan, check for doneness around the 40-minute mark.
6. Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully transferring it to a cooling rack. Let it cool completely or serve warm with a cup of coffee.
Tips for Recipe Success
- Use full-fat sour cream for a rich and moist texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing.
- Customize the topping by adding chocolate chips or shredded coconut for an extra layer of flavor.
- Grease the pan properly to prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the cake.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
- Serve warm with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
- Top with powdered sugar or a simple glaze for extra sweetness.
- Pair with fresh berries or whipped cream for a delightful treat.
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to a week for longer freshness.
- Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake stays fresh for several days, making it a great option for meal prep. Simply bake it the night before and enjoy it the next morning.
2. Can I substitute the sour cream with something else?
Yes, you can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk for a similar texture and flavor.
3. What type of nuts work best for this recipe?
Pecans and walnuts are the best choices because of their rich, buttery flavor. However, you can also use almonds or hazelnuts.
4. Can I add fruit to this coffee cake?
Absolutely! Diced apples, blueberries, or raspberries make great additions. Just fold them into the batter before layering.
5. How do I make this coffee cake gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Also, make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Mom’s Sour Cream Coffee Cake is the perfect blend of soft, buttery cake and sweet cinnamon-nut filling. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or serving it as a dessert, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Try this recipe today, and share your experience in the comments below! If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out our other delicious baked goods.
