We’re about to share one of our most beloved breakfast treats that’ll transform your morning routine into something truly special. This cream cheese coffee cake combines the rich tanginess of cream cheese with a tender, buttery cake base that’s simply irresistible.
What makes this recipe stand out is the perfect balance of flavors and textures – you’ll get a moist, fluffy cake swirled with creamy cheese filling and topped with a delightful cinnamon streusel. It’s the kind of cake that makes your kitchen smell like heaven and brings everyone to the table before you’ve even finished brewing the coffee.
Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or treating yourself to a special weekday breakfast, this cream cheese coffee cake delivers bakery-quality results right from your own oven. We’ve perfected this recipe to ensure it’s foolproof for bakers of all skill levels.
Ingredients
We’ve organized these ingredients into three simple categories to make your baking process smooth and efficient. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your cream cheese coffee cake.
For the Cake Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Equipment Needed
Creating this delectable cream cheese coffee cake requires exact tools that ensure perfect results every time. We recommend gathering all equipment before beginning the baking process to maintain smooth workflow and optimal timing.
Essential Baking Equipment:
- 9-inch springform pan – Our preferred choice for easy removal and professional presentation
- Large mixing bowl – Necessary for combining cake batter ingredients thoroughly
- Medium mixing bowl – Perfect for preparing the cream cheese filling separately
- Electric mixer or hand mixer – Essential for creaming butter and achieving smooth cream cheese consistency
- Whisk – Ideal for incorporating dry ingredients without overmixing
- Fork – Required for creating the perfect crumbly streusel texture
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements ensure consistent results
- Parchment paper – Optional but recommended for effortless cake removal
Additional Tools:
- Rubber spatula – Helpful for folding ingredients and scraping bowl sides
- Wire cooling rack – Allows proper air circulation during cooling process
- Toothpick or cake tester – Ensures doneness without overbaking
We suggest preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) before starting ingredient preparation. This temperature provides the ideal baking environment for achieving our signature moist texture while developing the golden streusel topping.
| Equipment Category | Primary Function | Alternative Options |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Equipment | Cream cheese blending | Stand mixer, hand whisk |
| Baking Pan | Even heat distribution | Round cake pans, tube pan |
| Measuring Tools | Ingredient accuracy | Kitchen scale for precision |
Having the right equipment transforms this cream cheese coffee cake from good to extraordinary. Each tool serves a exact purpose in creating the layered masterpiece that awaits.
Instructions
Now that we have all our ingredients measured and equipment ready, let’s walk through each step to create this delicious cream cheese coffee cake. Follow these detailed instructions for bakery-quality results every time.
Prep the Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) before beginning any mixing. Grease your 9-inch springform pan thoroughly with butter, then dust with flour to prevent sticking. Tap out any excess flour and set the prepared pan aside. This preparation ensures our coffee cake will release cleanly from the pan once baked.
Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Beat the softened cream cheese in a medium bowl using an electric mixer until completely smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar and mix until well combined, about 2 minutes. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is silky and uniform. The filling should have no lumps and flow easily when stirred. Set this mixture aside while we prepare the cake batter.
Prepare the Cake Batter
Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together in a large bowl using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain the cake’s tender texture.
Create the Streusel Topping
Combine the flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add to the dry ingredients. Using a fork or pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some larger butter pieces remaining. These butter pieces will create the perfect crumbly texture we want for our streusel topping.
Assemble the Coffee Cake
Spread half of the prepared cake batter evenly in the bottom of our greased springform pan. Carefully spoon the cream cheese filling over the batter layer, spreading it gently to within 1/2 inch of the edges. Drop the remaining cake batter in spoonfuls over the cream cheese layer, then gently spread to cover as much of the filling as possible.
Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the entire surface of the cake. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cake portion comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached. The cream cheese layer should be set but still slightly soft to the touch.
Directions for Baking
Now that we’ve assembled our layered masterpiece, it’s time to transform this beautiful creation into a golden, fragrant coffee cake that will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Baking Time and Temperature
We bake our cream cheese coffee cake at 350°F (175°C) for optimal results. Place the assembled cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes when using a 9×13-inch pan. For smaller pans, we reduce the baking time to approximately 20 minutes to prevent overbaking.
| Pan Size | Baking Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| 9×13 inch | 30-40 minutes | 350°F (175°C) |
| Smaller pans | ~20 minutes | 350°F (175°C) |
The consistent temperature ensures even baking throughout all layers while allowing the cream cheese filling to set properly without curdling.
Testing for Doneness
We know our cream cheese coffee cake is perfectly baked when the top turns lightly golden brown and develops slight cracks across the surface. These visual cues indicate the cake has reached the ideal doneness level.
For additional confirmation, we insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. The toothpick should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Wet batter on the toothpick means the cake needs more time in the oven.
Once baked, we allow the cake to cool for at least 20 minutes before removing it from the pan. This cooling period lets the layers set properly and prevents the cake from falling apart when we serve it. The finished cake maintains its quality when stored covered at room temperature or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Cooling and Serving
After our cream cheese coffee cake emerges from the oven golden and fragrant, we must allow it to cool properly on a wire rack to room temperature before slicing. This crucial step prevents the cake from crumbling and ensures the cream cheese layer sets completely. We recommend waiting at least 20 minutes for optimal texture and clean cuts.
Proper Cooling Technique
Wire racks provide the best cooling environment by allowing air to circulate around the entire cake. We place the baked cake directly on the rack while still in its pan to prevent sticking. The cooling process typically takes 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on your kitchen temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooled, we can enhance our coffee cake with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation. The cake pairs beautifully with freshly brewed coffee or serves as the centerpiece of a brunch spread alongside eggs, bacon, or hash browns. We find that each slice delivers the perfect balance of creamy cheese filling and cinnamon streusel topping.
Storage and Reheating
Our cream cheese coffee cake maintains its quality when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, we refrigerate the cake to preserve freshness. Individual slices can be wrapped in plastic and frozen for future enjoyment.
When reheating, we warm slices briefly in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to restore the cake’s soft texture. Frozen pieces should thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before reheating for best results.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 604 calories with a rich nutritional profile that includes 94 grams of carbohydrates, 7 grams of protein, and 23 grams of fat. The cream cheese contributes 104 milligrams of cholesterol and 66 grams of sugar per serving, making this a delightful indulgence for special occasions.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 604 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 94 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Fat | 23 g |
| Saturated Fat | 13 g |
| Cholesterol | 104 mg |
| Sugar | 66 g |
Make-Ahead Instructions
We love how this cream cheese coffee cake recipe adapts perfectly to busy schedules. The flexibility of preparing components ahead makes it an ideal choice for entertaining or special occasions when time is precious.
Prepare Components in Advance
The streusel topping can be made a full day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. We recommend mixing the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter until crumbly, then covering tightly. This advance preparation actually improves the texture as the ingredients meld together overnight.
Our cream cheese filling also benefits from early preparation. Beat the softened cream cheese with sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth, then store at room temperature for up to 4 hours before assembly. Keeping it at room temperature ensures easy spreading when we layer the cake.
Assemble and Refrigerate Overnight
We can take the make-ahead approach one step further by assembling the entire cake the night before baking. Layer the batter, cream cheese filling, and streusel topping in the prepared pan, then cover tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight for fresh-baked cake the next morning.
When ready to bake, remove the assembled cake from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. This brief warming period prevents thermal shock and ensures even baking throughout.
Storage Timeline
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 3-4 days | Store in airtight container |
| Refrigerated | Up to 5 days | Cover tightly to prevent drying |
| Frozen (whole cake) | Up to 3 months | Wrap in plastic wrap and foil |
| Frozen (slices) | Up to 2 months | Individual wrapping recommended |
Reheating Instructions
Once baked and cooled, we store slices in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness. For longer storage, refrigeration extends the cake’s life while maintaining its moist texture. Individual slices reheat beautifully in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, restoring the cake’s tender crumb and warming the cream cheese layer to perfection.
Storage Tips
Proper storage techniques ensure your cream cheese coffee cake maintains its moist texture and rich flavor for days after baking. We’ve outlined comprehensive storage methods based on how long you plan to keep your cake fresh.
Room Temperature Storage
For immediate consumption within 24 hours, store your cream cheese coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature. This method preserves the cake’s tender crumb while keeping the cream cheese layer perfectly creamy. Place the cake on a flat surface away from direct sunlight or heat sources to maintain optimal texture.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Refrigerator storage extends your cake’s freshness for 4 to 7 days when properly contained. Transfer the cake to an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. Remove the cake from the refrigerator 30 minutes before serving to restore its ideal texture and enhance the flavors. Cold cake tends to firm up, so bringing it back to room temperature creates a more enjoyable eating experience.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing preserves cream cheese coffee cake for up to 2 to 3 months without compromising quality. Wrap the entire cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in airtight containers or ziplock bags to prevent freezer burn. Label containers with the date to track storage time effectively.
When ready to enjoy frozen cake, thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for 2 hours. Warm thawed slices in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds to recreate that freshly baked taste and restore the cake’s original moisture.
Storage Timeline Reference
| Storage Method | Duration | Container Type |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 24 hours | Airtight container |
| Refrigerator | 4-7 days | Airtight container or plastic wrap |
| Freezer | 2-3 months | Plastic wrap + airtight container |
Professional Storage Tips
Allow your cream cheese coffee cake to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation from making the streusel topping soggy. Cut only the portions you plan to serve immediately, keeping the remaining cake intact to maintain moisture. Store different cake varieties separately to prevent flavor transfer between baked goods.
Variations and Substitutions
We love how versatile this cream cheese coffee cake recipe becomes with simple ingredient swaps and creative additions. Our base recipe transforms beautifully with these tested variations that maintain the cake’s signature moist texture and rich flavor profile.
Blueberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake ranks among our most popular variations. We add up to 2 cups of fresh blueberries that we toss in flour before folding them into the batter. This technique prevents the berries from sinking to the bottom while adding a fresh fruity flavor and slight tartness that complements the rich cream cheese layer.
Lemon Cream Cheese Coffee Cake brings bright citrus notes to our recipe. We incorporate lemon zest into both the cream cheese filling and cake batter to enhance the overall brightness. Our favorite finishing touch involves topping the baked cake with a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice, or adding a lemon sugar-almond crumble for extra texture.
Vanilla Glaze provides a simple yet elegant finish option. We create this sweet enhancement by combining powdered sugar with vanilla extract and milk, then pour it warm over the cooled cake for a bakery-style appearance.
Sour Cream Substitutions offer flexibility for different pantry situations. We substitute sour cream with plain yogurt when needed, though this may slightly alter the texture. The yogurt version produces a slightly denser crumb while maintaining the cake’s moisture content.
Streusel Topping Variations allow us to customize texture and flavor. Our standard streusel combines butter, brown sugar, and flour, but we enhance it with sliced almonds or spices like cinnamon for added complexity. The proportions remain consistent regardless of add-ins:
| Ingredient | Standard Amount | Enhanced Version |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | 1/4 to 1/3 cup | 1/4 to 1/3 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 to 1 cup | 1/4 to 1 cup |
| Flour | 1/4 to 1/2 cup | 1/4 to 1/2 cup |
| Add-ins | None | 1/4 cup almonds or 1 tsp cinnamon |
Ingredient Temperature Adjustments ensure successful results with any variation. We always use softened cream cheese and butter for smooth mixing, regardless of which flavor profile we choose. These temperature guidelines remain constant across all variations to maintain our cake’s signature texture.
Scaling Guidelines help us adjust add-ins without compromising the recipe’s structure. We recommend keeping fruit additions to 2 cups maximum and limiting zest to 2 tablespoons to preserve the cake’s structural integrity while maximizing flavor impact.
Troubleshooting Tips
Even experienced bakers encounter challenges when making cream cheese coffee cake. We’ve compiled the most common issues and their answers to help you achieve perfect results every time.
Temperature matters significantly for smooth cream cheese filling. Room temperature cream cheese and eggs blend effortlessly without creating lumps in your filling. Cold ingredients resist mixing and create an uneven texture that affects the final cake. We recommend removing cream cheese from the refrigerator 2 to 3 hours before baking to ensure optimal softness.
Overfilling your baking pan leads to messy overflow during baking. Dense cake batter combined with cream cheese filling requires adequate space for rising. Leave at least 1 inch of space between your batter and the pan rim to prevent spills. Springform pans work exceptionally well for containing the layered components while allowing easy removal.
Uneven batter distribution creates inconsistent texture throughout your cake. Spread each layer carefully using an offset spatula to ensure uniform thickness. Pay special attention when adding the cream cheese filling layer to avoid mixing it into the cake batter below. This separation maintains distinct layers and prevents a marbled appearance.
Determining doneness requires multiple testing methods for accuracy. Insert a toothpick near the center of the cake rather than directly in the middle where cream cheese filling may still appear wet. The toothpick should emerge with moist crumbs rather than completely clean. An instant-read thermometer provides the most reliable results with an internal temperature of 200°F indicating perfect doneness.
Overbaking transforms your moist coffee cake into a dry disappointment. Check for doneness at the minimum baking time and watch for visual cues like a lightly golden top with slight surface cracks. The cake should spring back lightly when touched in the center. Remove from oven immediately once these signs appear to preserve moisture.
Cooling too quickly can cause your cake to crack or sink in the center. Allow the cake to cool gradually in the pan for 20 minutes before attempting to remove it. This cooling period helps the cream cheese filling set properly and prevents structural collapse. Avoid placing the hot pan in a cold environment which creates temperature shock.
| Common Issue | Solution | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Lumpy cream cheese filling | Use room temperature ingredients | Remove from fridge 2-3 hours early |
| Batter overflow | Leave 1 inch space in pan | Use appropriate pan size |
| Uneven layers | Spread with offset spatula | Take time with each layer |
| Undercooked center | Test with thermometer at 200°F | Check multiple spots |
| Dry texture | Remove at first signs of doneness | Monitor closely after minimum time |
| Cracked surface | Cool gradually in pan | Avoid temperature shock |
Mixing technique affects your final texture more than ingredient quality. Overmixing cake batter develops gluten and creates a tough texture. Combine ingredients until just blended and stop mixing when you no longer see dry flour streaks. Small butter bits in the batter actually contribute to tenderness rather than indicating incomplete mixing.
Conclusion
We’ve shared everything you need to create this irresistible cream cheese coffee cake that’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire. With our detailed instructions and expert tips you’re equipped to achieve bakery-quality results every single time.
This recipe’s flexibility makes it perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting weekend guests or treating yourself to a special breakfast. The make-ahead options and storage guidelines ensure you can enjoy this delicious cake whenever the craving strikes.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with our suggested variations once you’ve mastered the classic version. We’re confident this cream cheese coffee cake will quickly become one of your most requested recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes cream cheese coffee cake different from regular coffee cake?
Cream cheese coffee cake features a rich, creamy cheese filling layered between tender cake batter and topped with cinnamon streusel. This creates a moist, fluffy texture with a perfect balance of tangy cream cheese and sweet cake, making it more indulgent than traditional coffee cake.
What ingredients do I need for cream cheese coffee cake?
You’ll need three components: cake batter (flour, sugar, butter, eggs, sour cream, vanilla, baking powder, baking soda, salt), cream cheese layer (softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla), and streusel topping (flour, brown sugar, cold butter, cinnamon, salt).
What equipment is essential for making this cake?
Essential equipment includes a 9-inch springform pan, mixing bowls, electric mixer, and measuring cups. These tools ensure accurate measurements, proper mixing, and the perfect crumbly streusel texture for bakery-quality results at home.
How long should I bake cream cheese coffee cake?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes in a 9×13-inch pan, or about 20 minutes for smaller pans. The cake is done when the top is lightly golden with slight cracks and a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
How should I store cream cheese coffee cake?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, or refrigerate for up to 5-7 days. For longer storage, freeze for 2-3 months when properly wrapped. Always let the cake cool completely before storing to maintain moisture.
Can I make cream cheese coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes! Make streusel topping a day ahead and refrigerate. Prepare cream cheese filling up to 4 hours in advance. For ultimate convenience, assemble the entire cake the night before baking and refrigerate overnight.
What are some popular variations of this recipe?
Popular variations include Blueberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake with fresh berries, Lemon Cream Cheese Coffee Cake with lemon zest and glaze, and adding nuts or spices to the streusel topping. A vanilla glaze can also add an elegant finishing touch.
How do I know when the cake is properly cooled?
Cool the cake on a wire rack for 45 minutes to 1 hour until it reaches room temperature. This ensures the layers set properly and allows for clean cuts. The cake should feel cool to the touch before serving or storing.
What can I substitute for sour cream in this recipe?
Plain yogurt works as an excellent substitute for sour cream, maintaining the cake’s moist texture and tangy flavor. Use the same amount as called for in the recipe and ensure it’s at room temperature for best results.
How many calories are in each serving?
Each serving contains approximately 604 calories, with a rich profile of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. This makes it a delightful indulgence perfect for special occasions, weekend brunches, or when you want to treat yourself.
