Velvety Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake
Indulge in this delightful Velvety Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake, the perfect addition to your breakfast table or afternoon tea. This moist and flavorful cake features a luscious cream cheese filling nestled between layers of tender cake, all topped with a rich cinnamon streusel that adds the perfect touch of crunch. Each bite delivers a balance of sweetness and warmth, making it ideal for sharing with friends and family. Elevate your coffee break with this scrumptious treat that pairs wonderfully with your favorite brew!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups (measured)
granulated sugar
1 1/2 cups (divided)
baking powder
1/2 teaspoon (measured)
baking soda
1/2 teaspoon (measured)
kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon (measured)
unsalted butter
1 3/4 cups (softened and melted)
eggs
4 eggs (beaten)
vanilla extract
2 teaspoons (measured)
buttermilk
2/3 cup (measured)
cream cheese
16 ounces (softened)
light brown sugar
1 cup (measured)
ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons (measured)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Velvety Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake?
It is a moist and flavorful cake featuring a luscious cream cheese filling nestled between layers of tender cake, topped with a rich cinnamon streusel.
Does this coffee cake actually contain coffee?
No, this recipe does not contain coffee; the term 'coffee cake' refers to a cake intended to be served as an accompaniment to coffee or tea.
How much all-purpose flour is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 1/2 cups of measured all-purpose flour.
What type of sugar is used in the Velvety Cream Cheese Coffee Cake?
This recipe uses 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar (divided) and 1 cup of light brown sugar.
How much cream cheese do I need for the filling?
You will need 16 ounces of softened cream cheese to create the luscious center layer.
What role does buttermilk play in this coffee cake?
The 2/3 cup of buttermilk helps create a tender, moist crumb and a velvety texture in the cake.
Should the butter be salted or unsalted?
The recipe specifies 1 3/4 cups of unsalted butter, which should be both softened and melted according to the preparation steps.
How many eggs are included in the batter?
The recipe requires 4 eggs, which should be beaten before being added to the mixture.
Is there a specific way to prepare the cinnamon swirl?
The swirl is created using 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon and light brown sugar to provide warmth and sweetness.
What provides the leavening for the cake?
The cake uses a combination of 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to help it rise.
Can I serve this cake for breakfast?
Yes, it is the perfect addition to your breakfast table or for a brunch gathering.
How much vanilla extract is needed?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
What is the texture of the topping?
The topping is a rich cinnamon streusel that adds the perfect touch of crunch to the velvety cake.
Is this recipe suitable for sharing?
Absolutely, it is ideal for sharing with friends and family during social gatherings or coffee breaks.
What type of salt should be used?
The recipe specifies using 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt.
What makes the cake moist?
The combination of buttermilk, butter, and the cream cheese filling ensures each bite is moist and flavorful.
Does the recipe use light or dark brown sugar?
The recipe specifically calls for 1 cup of light brown sugar.
How should the cream cheese be prepared?
The cream cheese should be softened to room temperature so it can be easily incorporated into the filling.
Is this coffee cake considered a dessert?
Yes, it is categorized as both a breakfast item and a dessert due to its sweet and rich profile.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 12 main ingredients used to create this Velvety Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake.
What categories does this recipe fall into?
It falls into several categories including breakfast, coffee cake, dessert, and brunch recipes.
Can I use this recipe for a family gathering?
Yes, 'family gatherings' is one of the primary tags for this recipe.
How is the granulated sugar used?
The 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar is divided, likely for use in both the cake batter and the cream cheese filling.
What kind of cinnamon flavor can I expect?
You can expect a warm and aromatic cinnamon flavor from the 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon used in the swirl and streusel.
Should the flour be sifted or measured?
The instructions specify that the flour should be measured before use.
What makes the cake 'velvety'?
The term 'velvety' refers to the smooth, rich texture provided by the softened cream cheese and the buttermilk-based batter.
Can this be eaten as an afternoon snack?
Yes, it is perfect for an afternoon tea or a mid-day coffee break.
What are the key spices in this cake?
Cinnamon is the primary spice, providing warmth and balancing the sweetness of the sugars.
How are the eggs added to the batter?
The 4 eggs should be beaten first to ensure they blend smoothly into the other wet ingredients.
Is this a good recipe for beginners?
Yes, as a standard 'baking' and 'sweet treat' recipe, it uses common ingredients and techniques suitable for most home bakers.