5 Tips for Perfect Sourdough Coffee Cake Every Time
As a coffee cake lover, I know the joy of the first bite of sourdough coffee cake. The smell of warm yeast and the sweetness of cinnamon and brown sugar are unbeatable. It’s perfect for breakfast or dessert, making it a skill worth learning.
In this article, I’ll share my top 5 tips for baking the best sourdough coffee cake. You’ll learn how to use your sourdough discard and get the perfect crumb topping. These tips will make your baking better and impress everyone.
So, let’s dive in and unlock the secrets to perfect sourdough coffee cake perfection!
Table of Contents
What is Sourdough Coffee Cake?
Sourdough coffee cake is a sweet treat that mixes vanilla cake with sourdough tang. It has a cinnamon sugar filling and a buttery topping. This makes it a perfect indulgence for any time, as a dessert or breakfast.
The sourdough adds moisture and a special flavor. The cinnamon sugar and crumb topping offer a tasty contrast. Sourdough coffee cake is a comforting treat that will please your taste buds.
Sourdough Coffee Cake Ingredients
To make this tasty sourdough coffee cake, you’ll need:
- Sourdough discard (about 1/2 cup)
- All-purpose flour with an 11.5% protein content
- Buttermilk for a light, fluffy, and moist texture
- A streusel topping with brown sugar, flour, unsalted butter, cinnamon, and pecans
You’ll also need unsalted butter, cream cheese, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
Sourdough coffee cake is a treat for the senses. It’s great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. This versatile treat will impress and satisfy everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Coffee Cake
Sourdough coffee cake is a favorite for breakfast and dessert. It has a tangy sourdough flavor that goes well with sweet cinnamon and buttery crumb. The cake’s moist, tender crumb is irresistible.
This coffee cake is great because it uses sourdough discard, reducing waste. It’s also a favorite all year, perfect for holidays or lazy Sundays.
- Delectable flavor profile with a blend of tangy sourdough, sweet cinnamon, and buttery goodness
- A soft and delicate crumb that dissolves effortlessly in your mouth.
- Reduces food waste by using up sourdough discard
- Versatile enough to be enjoyed for breakfast, dessert, or any special occasion
Sourdough coffee cake is the epitome of comfort food—it’s like a warm embrace for your taste buds.
Whether you’re experienced with sourdough or new to it, this coffee cake will win your heart. Its complex flavors and moist texture make it a treat for your senses. It’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients Needed
To make a delicious sourdough coffee cake, you’ll need some key ingredients. The sourdough starter or discard adds a tangy flavor and moisture. You’ll also need basic baking items like oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
Gather these ingredients for the cake batter:
- Sourdough starter or discard (1/2 cup)
- Vegetable oil (1/3 cup)
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup)
- Eggs (1)
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
- All-purpose flour (1 cup)
- Baking powder (1 tsp)
- Salt (1/2 tsp)
The cinnamon crumble topping requires:
- Melted butter (2 tbsp)
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup)
- All-purpose flour (1 tbsp)
- Ground cinnamon (2 tsp)
With these ingredients, you can make a sourdough coffee cake that’s great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
How to Make Sourdough Coffee Cake
Making a delicious sourdough coffee cake is simple. Just follow these easy steps. You’ll make a treat that will wow your loved ones.
Mixing the Batter
First, heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a big bowl, mix the wet stuff – 1 stick (8 tablespoons) of salted butter, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 2 large eggs. Whip the mixture until it’s light and fluffy, then incorporate 2/3 cup of sour cream and 1/3 cup of sourdough discard.
Next, mix the dry stuff – 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually incorporate it into the wet mixture, folding gently until everything is well combined.
Layering the Cinnamon Crumble
Now, make the cinnamon crumble. Mix 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour, and 6 tablespoons of grated cold butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle it on top of the batter.
Baking the Sourdough Coffee Cake
Put the batter in a greased 9-inch baking pan and spread it out.Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool slightly before turning it out onto a plate.
Enjoy your sourdough coffee cake warm. It’s perfect for dessert or a special breakfast. The mix of moist sourdough and sweet cinnamon crumble is irresistible.
Long Fermented Sourdough Coffee Cake
To get a stronger sourdough taste, you can ferment the batter longer. Mix the wet ingredients, like the sourdough starter or discard, and let it sit at room temperature for 8 to 24 hours. Next, proceed with the remaining steps of the recipe.
This longer time breaks down grains and cuts phytic acid. This makes the sourdough coffee cake denser and tangier. Remember, it won’t be as fluffy as the quick version. But, the sourdough flavor might be worth it for some.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Melted Butter (for Crumb Topping) | 3/4 cup |
| Oil (for Cake Batter) | 1 cup |
| Sugar (for Cake Batter) | 1 cup |
| Brown Sugar (for Cake Batter) | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | 1 1/2 cups |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Brown Sugar (for Crumb Topping) | 1 cup |
| Cinnamon (for Crumb Topping) | 3 tablespoons |
| Baking Soda | 3 teaspoons |
| All-Purpose Flour | 3 cups |
| Baking Temperature | 350°F |
| Baking Time | 40-50 minutes |
The longer fermentation gives your long fermented sourdough coffee cake a richer flavor. But, it might be denser than the quick version. It’s all about what you prefer and the flavor you want.
Tips for Success
Making the perfect sourdough coffee cake is easier than you think. Whether you’re a pro or just starting, these tips for perfect sourdough coffee cake will help. They’ll make sure your cake is always delicious.
- Use room-temperature ingredients. This ensures the batter is smooth and bakes evenly.
- Don’t overmix the batter. Gently fold in the dry ingredients to prevent the cake from becoming tough.
- Properly measure your flour. Spoon and level it to get the right amount.
- Bake at the right temperature. Use 350°F (180°C) for the best results.
- Don’t overbake. Check at 40 minutes and bake in 5-minute increments until clean, about 40-45 minutes total.
By following these sourdough coffee cake baking tips, you can avoid common problems. With practice, you’ll make perfect sourdough coffee cake every time.
“For a standout sourdough coffee cake, it’s crucial to balance the tangy sourdough with the sweet, buttery crumb topping perfectly”
Baking is an art, with each oven and ingredient bringing its own unique characteristics. Experiment boldly and find what fits your style the best.
Serving Suggestions
Sourdough coffee cake is great for many occasions. Enjoy it with a strong cup of how to serve sourdough coffee cake coffee or cold milk for breakfast. It’s also perfect as a dessert, paired with spiced chai or honey lavender ice cream. For a dairy-free version, try it with dairy-free pumpkin spice ice cream.
Pair the serving ideas for sourdough coffee cake sourdough coffee cake with a zucchini frittata for a full brunch. The sourdough’s tanginess balances the cake’s richness, making for a delightful meal.
| Serving Accompaniment | Suggested Pairing | Nutritional Information (per serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Freshly brewed coffee | Classic pairing for breakfast or brunch | Calories: 555kcal, Carbohydrates: 80g, Protein: 6g, Fat: 24g, Saturated Fat: 15g, Cholesterol: 98mg, Sodium: 426mg, Potassium: 138mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 49g |
| Hot apple cider | Complementary autumnal flavors | Calories: 555kcal, Carbohydrates: 80g, Protein: 6g, Fat: 24g, Saturated Fat: 15g, Cholesterol: 98mg, Sodium: 426mg, Potassium: 138mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 49g |
| Whipped cream | Indulgent topping for a dessert-like experience | Calories: 555kcal, Carbohydrates: 80g, Protein: 6g, Fat: 24g, Saturated Fat: 15g, Cholesterol: 98mg, Sodium: 426mg, Potassium: 138mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 49g |
| Sliced fresh fruit | Provides a light, refreshing contrast | Calories: 555kcal, Carbohydrates: 80g, Protein: 6g, Fat: 24g, Saturated Fat: 15g, Cholesterol: 98mg, Sodium: 426mg, Potassium: 138mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 49g |
Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, what to pair with sourdough coffee cake sourdough coffee cake is a treat. It offers a perfect mix of sweet and tangy in every bite.
Sourdough Coffee Cake
Try the amazing mix of sourdough and coffee cake with this recipe. The sourdough coffee cake has a soft, vanilla-flavored crumb. It also has a tangy sourdough taste, a cinnamon-sugar filling, and a buttery topping. You can make it quickly or let it ferment longer, and it will be a hit with your family.
Enjoy this sourdough coffee cakehttps://www.sourdoughvoyage.com/sourdough-brownies-chocolate-lovers/ for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. It’s a treat that will amaze you with its mix of moist cake, warm cinnamon, and crunchy topping. It’s a true indulgence.
Ingredients Needed
- Sourdough discard: 113 grams
- All-purpose flour: 255 grams
- Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Salted butter: 86 grams
- Light brown sugar: 170 grams
- Plain Greek yogurt: 57 grams
- Milk: 56 grams
Crumb Topping
- Salted butter: 85 grams
- All-purpose flour: 95 grams
- Cane sugar: 57 grams
- Light brown sugar: 57 grams
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
Cinnamon Filling
- Light brown sugar: 71 grams
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
With these easy ingredients, you can make a sourdough coffee cake that will wow you. Follow the steps to get the perfect mix of flavors and textures in your homemade treat.
Customizing Your Sourdough Coffee Cake
The basic sourdough coffee cake recipe is already tasty. However, you can elevate it even further by adding your personal touch. Here are some ideas to make your sourdough coffee cake unique:
Flour Power
Try using einkorn flour or a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flours instead of regular flour. These options can bring new flavors and textures to your sourdough coffee cake.
Crumb Topping Upgrades
Include chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts in the crumb topping for added crunch. You can also try different spices like cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg.
Drizzle and Swirl
After the sourdough coffee cake cools, drizzle it with vanilla glaze for sweetness. Or, swirl in cinnamon-sugar for a classic taste.
Mix-in Mania
Be creative with mix-ins like dried fruit, chocolate chips, or your favorite jam. These can turn your sourdough coffee cake into a special treat.
Customizing your sourdough coffee cake is all about having fun. Try different flours, toppings, and mix-ins to find your favorite.
Storing and Freezing
Sourdough coffee cake is a delightful treat. Proper storage is crucial for preserving its freshness and flavor. This cake can be stored for several days or frozen for longer.
To store your sourdough coffee cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For extended storage, keep it refrigerated for up to 2 weeks. Make sure it’s tightly covered to keep it from drying out.
Freezing is another option for long-term storage. Cut the cake into individual portions. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container. Stored properly, the cake will stay moist and flavorful for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen sourdough coffee cake, thaw it at room temperature. You can also warm up the slices in the microwave or toaster oven. This will revive the crumb topping and make it taste freshly baked.
To protect the coffee cake’s texture, wrap it tightly before freezing. To avoid freezer burn, use an airtight container or a freezer bag. Placing parchment paper between the cake and the wrapping helps keep the crumb topping intact.
Remember to label your frozen sourdough coffee cake with the freezing date. This helps you monitor its shelf life. With proper storage, you can enjoy this beloved treat for weeks or even months.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days |
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 weeks |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
By following these simple storage tips, your sourdough coffee cake will stay fresh and delicious. Enjoy it immediately or store it for later.
Conclusion
Sourdough coffee cake is a treat that mixes tangy sourdough with sweet coffee cake. Follow the 5 key tips in this article to bake a perfect sourdough coffee cake. You can choose between a quick version or a long-fermented method.
Mastering the layering and customizing the recipe to your liking is easy. This way, you can make a stunning breakfast or dessert. Your loved ones are certain to adore it.
Why not try making this delicious sourdough coffee cake? Your taste buds and anyone you share it with will be grateful. With these tips, you’re ready to start baking in your kitchen.
Embrace sourdough baking and enjoy the flavors of this coffee cake. It’s a journey of joy and sharing, as shown by the author’s story. Whether you’re new to sourdough or experienced, dive into this recipe. Enjoy the sweet and tangy taste of sourdough coffee cake.
FAQ
What is sourdough coffee cake?
Sourdough coffee cake is a sweet vanilla cake with a tangy sourdough taste. It has a cinnamon sugar filling and a buttery crumb topping. It’s perfect for dessert or breakfast.
Why is sourdough coffee cake so popular?
People love sourdough coffee cake for its unique taste. The sourdough flavor, sweet cinnamon, and buttery topping mix well. It’s also moist and tender. Plus, it uses sourdough discard, reducing waste. It’s a favorite all year round.
What ingredients do I need to make sourdough coffee cake?
You’ll need oil, sugar, eggs, vanilla, sourdough starter or discard, and milk. For the topping, you’ll need melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour.
How do I make sourdough coffee cake?
Making it is easy. First, mix the wet ingredients like oil, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and sourdough starter. Blend the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt. Combine them until just mixed.
Can I long ferment the sourdough coffee cake batter?
Yes, for a stronger sourdough taste, ferment the batter. Mix the wet ingredients, including sourdough starter, and let it sit at room temperature for 8 to 24 hours. Then, follow the recipe.
What tips can I use to ensure my sourdough coffee cake turns out perfectly?
For a great cake, use room temperature ingredients. Layer the batter and topping correctly. Avoid overbaking. Long-fermenting the batter also enhances the flavor.
How can I serve sourdough coffee cake?
You can enjoy it in many ways. It’s great with coffee or milk for breakfast. Serve it as dessert with ice cream. It’s also good with savory dishes like zucchini frittata for brunch.
How can I customize my sourdough coffee cake?
Get creative with your coffee cake. Try einkorn flour or a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flours. Add nuts, dried fruit, chocolate chips, or cinnamon-sugar swirl to the topping. Make it your own.
How do I store and freeze sourdough coffee cake?
Enjoy it fresh, but leftovers can be stored for up to 3 days. For longer, refrigerate for 2 weeks or freeze for 3 months. Thaw and gently reheat before serving.