Starbucks’ cinnamon coffee cake is a beloved treat that tantalizes taste buds with its rich flavors of cinnamon and sugar, melding beautifully with a moist, buttery cake. With each bite, you’re transported to a cozy café ambiance, making it the perfect complement to your morning coffee or afternoon tea. This article will walk you step-by-step through the process of creating your very own Starbucks-style cinnamon coffee cake in the comfort of your home. Not only will you impress your family and friends, but you’ll also enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen. Let’s dive into the scrumptious world of cinnamon coffee cake!
Understanding the Magic of Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Before we embark on the baking journey, it’s essential to understand what exactly makes Starbucks’ cinnamon coffee cake so enchanting.
The Key Components
Cinnamon coffee cake is not just a regular cake. Its magic lies in its texture, flavor, and topping. Let’s break down these essential components:
- Moist Base: A moist, soft cake generally made with simple ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and milk.
- Swirls of Cinnamon: A truly standout feature, the cinnamon sugar filling is often swirled throughout the batter to provide delicious pockets of flavor.
- Crispy Topping: A crumbly topping that combines flour, butter, sugar, and more cinnamon adds an incredible contrast in textures.
The Allure of Cinnamon
Cinnamon not only gives the cake its signature flavor but also carries health benefits. It’s high in antioxidants, may help reduce inflammation, and has been linked to heart health. With these aspects in mind, making this cake becomes not just a culinary delight but also a potential wellness boost!
Gathering Your Ingredients
For the best results, ensure you have high-quality ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to recreate the Starbucks cinnamon coffee cake:
Ingredients List
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- For the Crumb Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
With your ingredients ready, you’re all set to mix and bake!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Now that we have our ingredients gathered, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and start baking!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheating your oven is essential for achieving that perfect rise. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring that it reaches the right temperature before placing your cake inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, mixing until just combined. Ensure there are no lumps, but be careful not to over-mix.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling
In a small bowl, combine the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This will create the delightful sweetness and spice that we’ll swirl into the batter.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, pour half of the batter, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Sprinkle about half of the cinnamon filling mixture over the batter.
Carefully spoon the remaining batter on top and spread it gently.
Finally, sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon filling over the top of the cake.
Step 5: Prepare the Crumb Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, butter, and cinnamon. Use a fork or your fingers to mix the ingredients together until it resembles a crumbly texture.
Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the prepared cake batter.
Step 6: Bake Your Cake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking, as this may dry out the cake.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, slice it into generous pieces and serve. Pair your cinnamon coffee cake with a fresh brew of coffee for that authentic Starbucks experience right at home!
Storing Your Cinnamon Coffee Cake
If you have any leftovers (which is rarely the case), storing your cinnamon coffee cake properly ensures you can enjoy it later.
Best Practices for Storing
Room Temperature: Allow the cake to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: If you wish to keep it longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to seal it well to avoid drying it out.
Freezing: For longer storage, the cinnamon coffee cake can be frozen. Slice it into pieces, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. To revive, simply let it thaw in the fridge and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Making the perfect cinnamon coffee cake requires attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cake turns out just right:
Ingredient Temperature: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to create a smoother batter.
Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Aim for just combined when adding the dry ingredients.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh flour, baking powder, and cinnamon can significantly enhance the flavor of your cake.
Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so always check for doneness a few minutes earlier than the recipe suggests.
Presentation Matters: Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish before serving.
Conclusion: Enjoying Your Homemade Starbucks Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Creating a homemade version of Starbucks’ cinnamon coffee cake is not only a fulfilling endeavor but also an opportunity to bond with family and friends over a delicious treat. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll have a beautiful, moist cake that’s bursting with flavor, and moments of enjoyment guaranteed with each slice.
So, next time you crave the comforting taste of cinnamon coffee cake, skip the café line and head to your kitchen! Enjoy this rewarding experience and share the love by offering your homemade cake to your loved ones. Happy baking!
What ingredients do I need to make Starbucks Cinnamon Coffee Cake at home?
To create a delicious Starbucks Cinnamon Coffee Cake, you will need a variety of ingredients to ensure it has that signature flavor and texture. The core ingredients include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and unsalted butter. You’ll also need sour cream and eggs to add moisture and richness to the cake. For the streusel topping, gather additional flour, brown sugar, butter, and more cinnamon.
Having all the ingredients pre-measured will help streamline the baking process. Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best results. This can make a noticeable difference in the texture and taste of your coffee cake. Fresh ingredients, especially baking powder and spices, will enhance the flavors and overall outcome of your cake.
How long does it take to prepare and bake the cake?
The preparation for the Starbucks Cinnamon Coffee Cake typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, you’ll be measuring and mixing your dry and wet ingredients separately before combining everything. It’s important to cream the butter and sugar well to incorporate air, which will help the cake rise properly.
Once your batter is ready, you’ll need to bake the coffee cake for about 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s a good idea to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready to be removed from the oven.
Can I substitute any of the ingredients?
Yes, you can make certain substitutions in the recipe for the Starbucks Cinnamon Coffee Cake, depending on dietary preferences or ingredient availability. For instance, if you are looking for a healthier alternative, you can replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will give the cake a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but it may slightly alter the texture.
If you’re looking to make it dairy-free, unsweetened applesauce can be used in place of sour cream, or you can substitute it with non-dairy yogurt. Keep in mind that substitutions might affect the final texture and flavor, so it’s a good idea to experiment and find the right balance that suits your taste.
What type of pan should I use to bake the cake?
For the best results, a 9-inch square baking pan or a round cake pan works well for baking your Starbucks Cinnamon Coffee Cake. The pan should be greased with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking, ensuring that you can easily remove the cake once it’s baked. Using a glass or metal pan is recommended, as they both distribute heat evenly.
If you want a more gourmet presentation, consider using a Bundt pan. This shape allows for even baking and adds a unique touch when serving your cake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as a Bundt cake may require a few extra minutes in the oven.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the coffee cake?
If you prefer a less sweet coffee cake, you can easily adjust the amount of granulated sugar in the recipe. Start by reducing the sugar by about 25% to see how it affects the flavor while still maintaining the cake’s structure. Remember that the streusel topping also contains sugar, so consider balancing both the batter and the topping to reach your desired sweetness level.
Another option is to incorporate natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of using granulated sugar. However, when substituting liquid sweeteners, you may need to slightly reduce the amount of other liquids in the recipe to maintain the proper batter consistency. This allows customization without sacrificing texture while still getting that delicious flavor.
How should I store leftover coffee cake?
To store your leftover Starbucks Cinnamon Coffee Cake, first, make sure the cake has cooled completely. Place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and to prevent it from drying out. If you don’t have an airtight container, you can cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept at room temperature for a couple of days.
For longer storage, consider refrigerating the cake. It can be enjoyed cold, or you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds. If you want to keep it for an extended period, freezing is an option as well. Wrap the cake slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer, allowing you to enjoy a delightful slice whenever you want.
Can I add other ingredients to customize the recipe?
Absolutely! The beauty of a coffee cake recipe lies in its versatility. You can add ingredients like chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the streusel topping or mix them into the batter for added texture. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can also complement the cinnamon flavor wonderfully.
If you enjoy chocolate, consider folding in some mini chocolate chips into the batter or adding a layer of them in the streusel. Fresh fruits like blueberries or chopped apples can also be incorporated into the cake for a fruity twist. Just remember that adding extra ingredients might require you to adjust the baking time slightly, so be sure to keep an eye on the cake as it bakes.