What gives the cake its moist texture?

The addition of sour cream and butter ensures the cake stays moist and tender throughout baking.

How is the cinnamon swirl created?

The swirl is made by mixing brown sugar with ground cinnamon and layering this mixture between portions of the batter before baking.

Yes, chopped toasted pecans or walnuts can be mixed into the streusel for added crunch and flavor.

A 9-inch square baking pan is ideal to ensure even cooking and the proper thickness.

Insert a toothpick into the center; when it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.

Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream to maintain moisture and tang.

A moist, tender coffee cake with a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl and a crumbly streusel topping perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon treat.

I first served this classic cinnamon swirl coffee cake to my family on a chilly Sunday morning, and it instantly became a favorite.

For the Cake: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter softened, 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt
For the Cinnamon Swirl: 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar packed, 2 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Streusel Topping: 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup (65 g) brown sugar packed, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 cup (55 g) unsalted butter melted

Preheat Oven:: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients:: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar:: In a large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
Add Sour Cream:: Mix in the sour cream until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.
Prepare Cinnamon Swirl:: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
Assemble Cake:: Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Top with the remaining batter and spread gently to cover.
Prepare Streusel:: For the streusel, mix the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Stir in the melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the cake batter.
Bake:: Bake for 38–42 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:: Allow to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing and serving.

This coffee cake has become a staple at family breakfasts and holiday gatherings alike.

Mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, measuring cups and spoons, 9-inch square baking pan, spatula, oven

Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy (butter, sour cream). Check all labels for potential allergen cross-contamination.

Calories 380, Total Fat 17 g, Carbohydrates 52 g, Protein 5 g per serving

This classic cinnamon swirl coffee cake is sure to brighten up any morning with its comforting flavors and tender crumb.

→ What gives the cake its moist texture?: The addition of sour cream and butter ensures the cake stays moist and tender throughout baking.
→ How is the cinnamon swirl created?: The swirl is made by mixing brown sugar with ground cinnamon and layering this mixture between portions of the batter before baking.
→ Can nuts be added to the topping?: Yes, chopped toasted pecans or walnuts can be mixed into the streusel for added crunch and flavor.
→ What pan size is recommended for baking?: A 9-inch square baking pan is ideal to ensure even cooking and the proper thickness.
→ How do I know when the cake is done?: Insert a toothpick into the center; when it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.
→ Can sour cream be substituted?: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream to maintain moisture and tang.