Comforting Sour Cream Coffee Cake for 9 Sweet Memories

June 7, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Welcome, my friends! I’m so excited to share one of my all-time favorite recipes with you—sour cream coffee cake! There’s something so comforting about a slice of this moist, delicious cake paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea. It takes me back to lazy Sunday mornings spent in the kitchen with my family, the sweet aroma of cinnamon wafting through the air as we gathered around the table, ready to indulge. It’s a simple pleasure that warms the heart, don’t you think?

This sour cream coffee cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy breakfast to start your day or a delightful dessert to share with friends after dinner. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! You don’t need to be a baking whiz to whip up this treat, and I promise it will impress everyone who gets a slice. So, grab your mixing bowls, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home just like it is in mine!

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delightful sour cream coffee cake! I like to lay everything out before I start, so it’s all ready to go. This way, the baking process flows smoothly, and you can focus on the fun part—mixing and enjoying the aromas!

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (make sure it’s nice and creamy!)
1 cup sour cream (this is what keeps the cake so moist and delicious)
2 large eggs (at room temperature is best for mixing)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for that lovely flavor)
1 teaspoon baking powder (to help it rise)
1 teaspoon baking soda (another helper for that perfect texture)
1/2 teaspoon salt (just a pinch to balance the sweetness)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, but they add a nice crunch!)
1 tablespoon cinnamon (for sprinkling on top, because who doesn’t love cinnamon?)

Feel free to gather these ingredients at your own pace. I always find it helps to have everything measured out, especially if you’re new to baking. Trust me, it takes away any last-minute rush and lets you savor the experience!

How to Prepare Instructions

Alright, let’s get our hands a little messy and make some delicious sour cream coffee cake! Follow these simple steps, and I promise you’ll end up with a delightful treat that fills your home with warmth and sweetness.

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step, so don’t skip it! We want our cake to bake evenly and come out just right.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon to mix until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. It’s a great workout for your arms!
Next, add in the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. The batter will look lovely and creamy at this point—oh, the aroma is starting to come together!
Now, let’s tackle the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. It’s important to mix these well so that your cake has a nice, even texture.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! You want the batter to be smooth but not too dense. If you’re adding nuts, fold them in gently at this stage.
Now, it’s time to assemble! Grease a 9×13 inch pan with a bit of butter or cooking spray. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. This is where the magic starts to happen!
Sprinkle half of the cinnamon topping over the batter. I love to do this because it adds that cozy, cinnamon flavor that makes this cake so special!
Carefully pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon layer, and then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon mixture on top. It’s going to look beautiful!
Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it as it bakes; the smell will be absolutely heavenly!
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps it set perfectly. And don’t forget to let it cool completely before slicing—if you can wait that long!

Trust me, the anticipation will make that first bite even sweeter. Enjoy your baking adventure, and savor every moment of this delightful process!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moist and flavorful: This sour cream coffee cake is so soft and delicious, each bite melts in your mouth!
Easy to prepare: With simple steps, you don’t need to be an expert baker to create this lovely cake.
Perfect for sharing: It’s a wonderful treat to bring to family gatherings, brunches, or just to enjoy with a friend over coffee.
Great for any occasion: Whether it’s a special celebration or a casual breakfast, this cake fits the bill perfectly.
Versatile with optional ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or fruits for a personal twist—blueberries or apples work wonderfully!

Tips for Success

To ensure your sour cream coffee cake turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips that I’ve learned along the way. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference!

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and gives your cake that lovely, even texture. If you forget, just place the eggs in warm water for a few minutes to take the chill off!
Don’t Overmix: When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want it to be light and fluffy. It’s okay if there are a few lumps—those will bake out!
Check Your Oven Temperature: Ovens can sometimes be a bit off, so it’s a good idea to use an oven thermometer if you have one. Baking at the right temperature ensures your cake rises properly and cooks evenly.
Cool Before Slicing: Once your cake is out of the oven, let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This step helps it set and prevents it from falling apart when you slice it. Patience is key!
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add your twist! Whether it’s a splash of almond extract or some fresh fruit, feel free to get creative. Just remember, if you add fruit, it might affect the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it!
Use Fresh Ingredients: Check the expiration dates on your baking powder and baking soda. Fresh leavening agents are crucial for a cake that rises beautifully. If in doubt, do a quick freshness test—mix a little baking soda with vinegar; if it fizzes, it’s good to go!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to bake a sour cream coffee cake that will impress everyone. Enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to make it your own!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many delightful ways to customize your sour cream coffee cake! Each variation can bring a new twist to the classic recipe, and I just love how it allows you to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Let’s dive into some fun ideas!

Fruity Delight: Add a cup of fresh blueberries or diced apples into the batter for a burst of flavor. Not only do they make the cake even more moist, but they also add a lovely sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
Nuts About Nuts: If you’re a fan of a little crunch, try using different nuts! Pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts can bring a unique texture and flavor. Just chop them roughly and fold them in as you would with walnuts.
Citrus Zest: For a refreshing twist, consider adding the zest of a lemon or orange into the batter. It brightens up the flavor and adds a lovely fragrance that complements the sweetness of the cake.
Chocolate Chip Surprise: If you’re a chocolate lover, toss in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips. They melt beautifully into the cake, creating pockets of gooey goodness with every slice!
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices! A dash of nutmeg or cardamom can add a warm, aromatic flavor that’s perfect for cozy gatherings. Just be careful not to overpower the cinnamon—you want a nice balance!
Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free for the best results!

Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your perfect sour cream coffee cake! Each twist offers a new way to enjoy this beloved recipe, and I can’t wait for you to discover your favorite. Happy baking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious sour cream coffee cake, you might be wondering how to keep those leftovers fresh and tasty. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered! Proper storage is key to maintaining that lovely moisture and flavor that makes this cake so delightful.

If you have any leftover cake, let it cool completely before storing it. Once it’s cooled, you can keep it at room temperature for about 2 days. Just make sure to cover it with a clean kitchen towel or place it in an airtight container to protect it from drying out. I like to use a cake dome or a simple plastic wrap for this purpose—whatever works best for you!

If you want to keep it a bit longer, you can store the cake in the refrigerator. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a sealed container. It will stay fresh for about a week in the fridge. Just remember, refrigeration can sometimes dry out cakes, so be sure to seal it well!

Now, if you want to save some for later, this cake freezes beautifully! Just slice it up and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to indulge again, just thaw a slice in the refrigerator overnight or leave it out at room temperature for a couple of hours. No need to reheat if you enjoy it cold, but if you prefer it warm, a quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave will do the trick. Just be careful not to overheat it—nobody likes a dry cake!

With these storage tips, you can enjoy your sour cream coffee cake for days to come. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every delicious slice!

Nutritional Information Section

Before you dive into enjoying your sour cream coffee cake, let’s take a moment to chat about the nutritional information. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and their brands, so it’s always a good idea to check labels if you’re keeping a close eye on your intake.

Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect per serving (1 slice):

Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 200mg
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 3g

Enjoy your baking with the knowledge that this sour cream coffee cake is a delightful treat, and as always, moderation is key! Whether you’re savoring it for breakfast or dessert, I hope you find joy in every bite.

FAQ Section

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for sour cream in this recipe. It will still give you that lovely moisture and tangy flavor. Just use the same amount, and you’ll be all set!

How do I know when the cake is done?
You’ll know your sour cream coffee cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking as oven times can vary. The top should also be golden brown and spring back slightly when gently pressed.

Can I freeze the coffee cake?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your coffee cake! Just slice it up, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a couple of hours. Enjoy it chilled or warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds!

Enjoy Your Baking Journey!

As you embark on making this delicious sour cream coffee cake, I want to encourage you to enjoy every moment of the process! Baking is such a wonderful way to express creativity and share love with those around you. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of pulling this cake out of the oven, filling your home with that irresistible aroma.

Once you’ve baked your cake, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Feel free to leave a comment below sharing your experiences, any tips you discovered along the way, or your own special variations. Did you add fruit or try a different nut? Every twist adds a unique flavor, and I’m eager to know what you came up with!

Also, if you have any questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to ask. I’m here to help you on your baking journey! Remember, every cake is a chance to learn and grow, and the most important part is to have fun. Happy baking, my friends, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and laughter!

sour cream coffee cake - detail 1

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.