There’s something magical about waking up to the aroma of freshly baked coffee cake, isn’t there? This Lausd Coffee Cake is a beloved family recipe that combines a tender, buttery crumb with a hint of cinnamon, creating a cozy morning treat that pairs perfectly with your favorite cup of joe.
What makes this cake truly special is its rich flavor and delightful texture, which keeps every bite moist and satisfying. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, making it a go-to option for lazy weekends or unexpected guests. Let’s gather our ingredients and get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This coffee cake checks all the boxes for a delightful treat.
- Deliciously moist and fluffy texture.
- Perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Great for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack.
- Can be made ahead for busy mornings.
My Experience Making This Recipe
When I first tried the Lausd Coffee Cake, it felt like a warm hug in every bite. The smell wafting through the kitchen made my family gather around, eager to dig in.
Each slice was met with smiles and compliments, making it clear this recipe would become a staple in our home. It’s hard to resist a cake that brings everyone together like that!
Recipe Overview
- Recipe Name: Lausd Coffee Cake
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Course: Breakfast/Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Calories per Serving: 220
Equipment You Will Need
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Cooling rack
Ingredients for Lausd Coffee Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure; whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor, but will change the texture.
- Sour cream: Adds moisture and tang; Greek yogurt is a great substitute.
- Granulated and brown sugar: Balance sweetness; coconut sugar can be used for a different flavor profile.
- Unsalted butter: Gives richness; can be swapped with margarine or a dairy-free butter alternative.
How to Make Lausd Coffee Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking for your cake, giving it that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. This helps the cake release easily after baking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This step evenly distributes the leavening agents for a fluffy cake.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This introduces air into the mixture, making your cake tender.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. This adds richness and flavor, contributing to the overall taste of the cake.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Mixing in batches prevents overmixing, which can toughen the cake.
Step 7: Make the Cinnamon Topping
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and chopped nuts (if using) with a bit of cinnamon. This will create a sweet, crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.
Step 8: Assemble and Bake
Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle half of the topping, then add the remaining batter and top it off with the rest of the cinnamon mixture. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Pro Tip: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its shape.
Tips for the Best Lausd Coffee Cake
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it should be just combined.
- Experiment with add-ins like berries or chocolate chips.
- Check for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.
- For added moisture, cover the cake with foil during baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold butter: It won’t cream properly, affecting texture.
- Skipping the greasing step: Your cake may stick to the pan.
- Not measuring flour correctly: This can lead to a dense cake.
- Overbaking: This dries out the cake, making it less enjoyable.
Serving Suggestions
This coffee cake shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments.
- Fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas.
- A dollop of whipped cream for a special touch.
- Warm beverages such as tea or coffee.
- A side of yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
Variations to Try
- Replace the cinnamon with cardamom for a unique flavor twist.
- Add chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
- Incorporate seasonal fruits like apples or peaches.
- Make it gluten-free using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a safe option.
- Dairy-free: Substitute the butter and sour cream with plant-based alternatives.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use non-dairy products.
- Low-carb/Keto: Use almond flour and a sugar substitute for a low-carb option.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator
Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Will keep for about a week.
- Wrap individual slices for easy access.
Freezer
This cake freezes well, making it great for meal prep.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Store for up to three months.
Reheating
Reheat slices in the microwave or oven for a warm treat.
- Microwave for 15-20 seconds.
- Oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 12g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Cholesterol | 40mg |
This information is approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands or modifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge overnight, then bake it fresh in the morning.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute for a similar tangy flavor.
How should I store leftover coffee cake?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Why is my coffee cake dense?
Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense texture, so mix just until combined.
Can I add other flavors or spices?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with flavors like nutmeg or lemon zest for a twist.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the recipe for Lausd Coffee Cake, it is time to create some delicious memories. Whether it’s for breakfast or a cozy gathering, this cake is sure to please everyone.
Don’t forget to explore more delightful recipes like Bisquick Coffee Cake Recipe and Coffee Cake Muffin Recipe for even more baking inspiration!
Lausd Coffee Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and chopped nuts with a bit of cinnamon.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle half of the topping, then add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon mixture.
- Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.