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- 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened - 1 cup granulated sugar - 2 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 cup sour cream - 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for swirl) - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional) - Powdered sugar (for dusting) When I gather the ingredients for my Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake, I feel the excitement. Each one plays a role in creating a soft, moist cake filled with a warm, sweet swirl. For the dry ingredients, I start with all-purpose flour. It gives the cake structure. Baking powder and baking soda help it rise. Ground cinnamon and salt add flavor. Together, they form a solid base. Next, I focus on the wet ingredients. I use unsalted butter for a rich taste. Granulated sugar sweetens and helps with texture. The eggs bring moisture and bind everything together. I add vanilla extract for a hint of warmth and sour cream for creaminess. This mix creates a lovely batter. For the cinnamon swirl, I combine light brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This mix creates a sweet, spicy layer inside the cake. If I want some crunch, I add chopped walnuts. Finally, I always dust the finished cake with powdered sugar. It gives a beautiful finish and a touch of sweetness. With these ingredients ready, I can’t wait to bake! Each step brings me closer to a delicious treat. First, you need to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven heats, grab a 9-inch round cake pan or a square baking dish. Grease the pan well with butter or cooking spray, then dust it with flour. This prevents sticking and ensures a clean release. In a medium bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon salt Give these a good mix and set them aside. This helps to combine everything evenly. In a large mixing bowl, cream together: - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened - 1 cup granulated sugar Use an electric mixer for about 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is a crucial step for texture. Next, beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time. Then, add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix it in well. Now, add in 1/2 cup of sour cream to the butter mixture. Mix until it is blended smoothly. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir just until combined. Remember, do not overmix! This keeps the cake soft and tender. In a small bowl, combine: - 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon If you like, mix in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts for a nice crunch. Next, pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over this layer. Repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon mixture. Now for the fun part! Use a butter knife to gently swirl the mixture through the batter. Aim for a light swirl to keep those layers nice. Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. How to prevent overmixing Overmixing can ruin your cake's texture. Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until they blend. A few lumps are okay. This keeps your cake light and fluffy. Achieving the perfect swirl To create a nice swirl, layer half of the batter in the pan. Top it with half of the cinnamon-sugar mix. Then add the rest of the batter and sprinkle the remaining mix. Use a butter knife to gently swirl. Go slow to keep the layers visible. Enhancing presentation For a lovely look, cut the cake into even slices. Serve it on a pretty plate. A sprinkle of powdered sugar gives it a nice touch. Fresh fruit or whipped cream adds color and flavor. Pairing with beverages This cake goes well with coffee or chai. A warm cup of tea also works. These drinks enhance the cake's flavors and make a great snack. Mistakes in ingredient measurements Too much or too little of an ingredient can change the cake. Always measure carefully. Use a kitchen scale for precision. This helps you get the best texture and taste. Not cooling the cake properly Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then move it to a wire rack. This prevents sogginess and keeps the bottom from getting mushy. Proper cooling makes your cake just right for serving. {{image_2}} You can change the flavor of your coffee cake easily. Adding fruits like apples or raisins brings natural sweetness. Chopped apples work great, adding moisture and flavor. Raisins add a chewy texture that pairs well with cinnamon. You can also try different nuts. Pecans or almonds can give a nice crunch. Just chop them up and mix them into the batter or sprinkle on top. If you need gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend. Many blends work well in cakes and keep the texture light. For a vegan version, swap eggs for flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Use plant-based butter and dairy-free sour cream too. These changes keep the taste delicious and friendly for all diets. Seasonal flavors can make your cake special. In fall, add nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a warm taste. These spices blend beautifully with cinnamon. For the holidays, think about adding peppermint or ginger. You can even toss in a handful of dried cranberries for a festive touch. These twists will make your coffee cake a star at any gathering! To store your cake short-term, cover it tightly with plastic wrap. This keeps it moist. You can place it in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to freeze it, wrap it well in foil or plastic wrap. This way, it stays fresh for about three months. For long-term storage, keep it in an airtight container. This helps prevent it from drying out. When you want to enjoy a slice, remove it from the container. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can also reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This brings back its soft texture. Cinnamon swirl coffee cake stays fresh for about one week in the fridge. If frozen, it can last up to three months. Look for signs of spoilage, like a dry or hard texture. If you see mold, discard it. Always trust your senses; if it smells off, it’s best to toss it. To check if your coffee cake is ready, use the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. If it has batter on it, give it more time. You can also look for visual clues. The cake should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched. If the edges pull away from the pan, that’s another sign it’s ready. Yes, you can use other flours in this recipe. Whole wheat flour adds a nutty taste. Almond flour makes the cake moist but can be denser. Oat flour gives a unique flavor and texture. Each option changes the cake's final taste and feel. Adjusting flour means you may need to tweak the liquid. Keep an eye on the texture; it should remain fluffy and tender. If you need a substitute for sour cream, you have options. Greek yogurt works well and keeps the cake moist. You can also use buttermilk for a tangy flavor. For dairy-free choices, try coconut yogurt or silken tofu blended smooth. Each alternative changes the taste and creaminess. Keep this in mind when choosing your substitute. You’ve learned how to make a delicious cinnamon swirl cake with easy steps. We covered all the key ingredients, from dry to wet, and even options for variations. I shared essential tips on baking and common mistakes to avoid. Remember, you can customize this cake for different diets or seasons. Store your cake properly to keep it fresh longer. Enjoy the baking process, and have fun sharing your cake with others!

Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake Bakery Style

Indulge in the irresistible Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake Delight that's perfect for any occasion! This delicious recipe combines soft, buttery cake with a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl, making it a delightful treat for coffee lovers. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you'll have a gorgeous cake ready to impress your friends and family. Click through to explore the full recipe and bring this heavenly dessert to your table!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for swirl)

1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or a square baking dish.

    In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and salt. Set it aside.

      In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).

        Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.

          Add the sour cream to the butter mixture and mix until blended.

            Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix!

              In a small bowl, combine the light brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. If using, mix in the chopped walnuts.

                Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, then sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over this layer. Repeat by adding the remaining batter on top, followed by the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture.

                  Using a butter knife, gently swirl the mixture through the batter to create a marbled effect. Aim for a gentle swirl; too much can mix the layers you created.

                    Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

                      Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

                        Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of flair!

                          Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 9 slices

                            - Presentation Tips: Cut the cake into nice, even slices and serve on a decorative plate. A side of fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream can enhance the presentation and flavor pairing!