Are you ready to journey back in time? This isn't just a coffee cake recipe; it's a trip to 1954, a time when home baking reigned supreme and the aroma of freshly baked goods filled kitchens across America. This old-fashioned coffee cake recipe is a treasure, a delicious blend of simple ingredients and a touch of nostalgia, perfect for weekend brunches or an afternoon treat. Get ready to experience the comforting flavors of a bygone era – this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for both beginner bakers and seasoned cooks seeking a classic taste.
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Crumble Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
Instructions:
Let's get baking! Follow these easy steps to recreate this delicious piece of culinary history.
Step 1: Prepare the Batter:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a tender cake; take your time!
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; don't overmix.
Step 5: Make the Crumble Topping:
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the top.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve:
Let the coffee cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a cup of coffee – it's the perfect pairing!
Tips for Baking Success:
- Room temperature ingredients: Using softened butter and room temperature eggs ensures proper emulsification, leading to a more tender cake.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Check for doneness: Start checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Variations:
- Add nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the batter or sprinkle them on top of the crumble.
- Citrus twist: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the batter for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the crumble topping for a warm, aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
- Protein: Approximately 4-5g
This old-fashioned coffee cake is more than just a recipe; it's a delicious reminder of simpler times and the joy of homemade baking. The easy-to-follow instructions and adaptable nature make it a perfect addition to any baker's repertoire, offering a tasty and comforting treat for everyone to enjoy. Happy baking!