Easy Sour Cream Coffee Cake That Melts in Your Mouth

There’s nothing quite like the smell of a freshly baked coffee cake filling your kitchen in the morning. Soft, buttery, and topped with a sweet cinnamon streusel, this easy sour cream coffee cake is the ultimate comfort bake for breakfast or brunch. The secret to its irresistible texture? A generous helping of sour cream, which makes the cake incredibly moist, tender, and rich in flavor.

Whether you enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee or tea, this homemade coffee cake feels like something straight from a bakery—yet it’s so simple to make at home. With just a few pantry staples and a handful of minutes, you’ll have a cozy, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that’s perfect for family mornings, gatherings, or even a sweet afternoon treat.

If you’ve been looking for a classic cinnamon coffee cake recipe that’s both foolproof and delicious, this one will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Sour Cream Coffee Cake

If you’re the kind of person who loves a cake that’s perfectly balanced between soft, sweet, and buttery, this sour cream coffee cake will win your heart from the very first bite. It’s one of those timeless recipes that feels both homemade and bakery-quality, offering comfort in every crumb.

Slice of moist sour cream coffee cake topped with cinnamon crumble on a white plate.

1. Moist, Tender, and Fluffy Texture
The addition of sour cream is the secret ingredient that takes this coffee cake to the next level. It keeps the batter rich and moist without making it heavy, giving you a soft, melt-in-your-mouth crumb that’s absolutely irresistible.

2. Buttery Cinnamon Streusel Topping
What’s a classic coffee cake without that iconic cinnamon sugar layer? This version has a buttery streusel topping made with brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour — creating a crunchy contrast to the tender cake beneath. Every bite offers that perfect mix of sweetness and spice.

3. Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients
You don’t need fancy tools or complicated techniques for this recipe. With just basic pantry staples — butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and sour cream — you can whip up this homemade coffee cake in under an hour. It’s an easy bake that delivers impressive results every time.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you serve it as a breakfast cake, a brunch treat, or a dessert with coffee, it always hits the spot. It’s a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings, holidays, or cozy weekends at home. Plus, it’s easy to dress up with fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of vanilla glaze.

5. A Comforting Classic You’ll Want to Bake Again and Again
There’s something nostalgic about a warm slice of cinnamon coffee cake — it’s the kind of recipe that never goes out of style. Once you try this easy sour cream coffee cake, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite for years to come.

Essential Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need

Before you start baking, it’s important to have all your ingredients and utensils ready. This sour cream coffee cake recipe uses simple, everyday items you probably already have in your kitchen. Each ingredient plays a special role in creating that moist, tender, and buttery texture that makes this cake so irresistible.

🧁 Ingredients for the Cake Batter

2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour – the base of your cake, giving it structure and lightness.
1 teaspoon baking powder – helps the cake rise and stay fluffy.
1 teaspoon baking soda – reacts with the sour cream to add extra lift and tenderness.
½ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened – adds richness and a buttery taste.
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar – for sweetness and moisture.
2 large eggs, room temperature – bind the batter and help it rise.
1 cup (240 g) sour cream – keeps the cake moist and soft while adding a subtle tang.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor.

🍯 Ingredients for the Cinnamon Streusel Topping

½ cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed – adds depth and a caramel-like sweetness.
¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour – helps form the crumb texture.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – the star spice that gives coffee cake its signature flavor.
3 tablespoons (45 g) unsalted butter, melted – binds the topping and adds a golden, crispy texture.
(Optional) ¼ cup (30 g) chopped pecans or walnuts – for a crunchy, nutty finish.

🍶 Optional Vanilla Glaze (for Drizzling)

½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
(Whisk until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cake.)

🍴 Essential Tools and Utensils

To make the process easier and ensure perfect results, have these tools on hand:

Mixing bowls (medium and large) – for combining wet and dry ingredients separately.
Hand mixer or stand mixer – to cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Rubber spatula or wooden spoon – for folding ingredients gently.
Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.
9×9-inch (23×23 cm) square baking pan – ideal for even baking and easy slicing.
Whisk – for blending dry ingredients evenly.
Oven thermometer (optional) – to ensure your oven heats correctly to 350°F (175°C).
Cooling rack – allows the cake to cool evenly without becoming soggy.

💡 Pro Tips

Use full-fat sour cream for maximum moisture and richness.
Always measure flour correctly (spoon and level method) to avoid a dense cake.
For an extra bakery-style look, sprinkle a little extra streusel topping before baking.

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make a Moist Coffee Cake

This easy sour cream coffee cake comes together in just a few simple steps. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe guarantees a soft, buttery texture with a sweet cinnamon streusel topping that melts in your mouth.

🕒 Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Cooling Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: Around 1 hour

🍰 Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
This ensures your coffee cake bakes evenly and slides out perfectly once cooled.

🥣 Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:

2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt

This step ensures your leavening agents and salt are evenly distributed for a consistent texture throughout the cake.

🧈 Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat together:

½ cup (115 g) softened unsalted butter
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar

Beat on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes, until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This aerates the batter, helping your coffee cake rise beautifully.

🥚 Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Sour Cream

Add the 2 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for flavor.
Next, gently blend in 1 cup (240 g) sour cream until smooth. The batter should look rich and creamy — that’s how you know your cake will be moist!

🌾 Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients in two parts, mixing just until combined.
Avoid overmixing — this can make the cake dense instead of soft and fluffy.

🍯 Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Streusel

In a small bowl, mix together:

½ cup (100 g) brown sugar
¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon
3 tablespoons (45 g) melted butter

Stir until you get a crumbly, sand-like texture. You can also toss in ¼ cup chopped nuts for extra crunch.

🧁 Step 7: Assemble the Coffee Cake

Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter.
Add the remaining batter, smoothing the surface gently with a spatula.
Finish with the remaining streusel topping for that classic crumb layer.

This layering technique creates a lovely cinnamon swirl in the middle of the cake.

🔥 Step 8: Bake the Cake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
The top should be golden brown, and your kitchen will smell like warm cinnamon and butter — a sign it’s almost done!

🧊 Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the coffee cake to cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack.
If you’d like, drizzle a light vanilla glaze over the top once cooled for extra sweetness.

Slice into generous squares and enjoy your moist, buttery sour cream coffee cake with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa.

💡 Baker’s Tips

For a richer flavor, substitute half the white sugar with light brown sugar in the batter.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a warmer spice profile.
To check doneness, press lightly on the cake center — it should spring back gently.

Variations and Add-Ins to Try

One of the best things about this easy sour cream coffee cake is how versatile it is. Once you master the classic version, you can easily add your own twist by experimenting with different flavors, textures, and toppings. Whether you prefer fruity bursts, nutty crunch, or a glazed finish, these variations will make your homemade coffee cake uniquely yours.

🍓 1. Fruity Add-Ins for a Fresh Twist

Add a pop of natural sweetness and moisture with fresh or frozen fruit.

Blueberry Coffee Cake: Gently fold 1 cup (150 g) of fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter. The berries burst as they bake, adding juicy flavor and color.
Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake: Add 1 cup (120 g) of finely diced apples and a pinch of nutmeg for a cozy fall version.
Peach or Raspberry Coffee Cake: Perfect for summer brunches — adds a bright, tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
Tip: Lightly coat fruit in flour before mixing into the batter to prevent sinking.

🌰 2. Nutty Crunch for Extra Texture

If you love a bit of crunch, nuts make an excellent addition to the streusel topping or the batter itself.

Stir in ¼ to ½ cup (30–60 g) chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds.
Toast the nuts lightly before adding them for a deeper, more aromatic flavor.
For a nut-free option, try adding rolled oats to your topping for texture without allergens.

🍫 3. Sweet and Indulgent Mix-Ins

Turn your coffee cake into a dessert-style treat with a few decadent touches.

Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake: Add ½ cup (90 g) mini chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise in every bite.
Coconut Streusel: Replace part of the flour in the topping with shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Brown Sugar Swirl: Mix ¼ cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and layer it between the batter for an extra sugary ribbon inside.

🍯 4. Flavor Enhancements and Spices

If you love playing with spices, try one of these easy upgrades:

Add ½ teaspoon cardamom or allspice for warmth and depth.
Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a subtle nutty flavor.
Add a touch of orange or lemon zest to brighten the cake and balance the sweetness.

🍶 5. Glazes, Drizzles, and Toppings

A light glaze can elevate your sour cream coffee cake from simple to stunning.

Vanilla Glaze: Whisk together ½ cup powdered sugar, 1–2 tablespoons milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Maple Glaze: Combine powdered sugar with a splash of pure maple syrup for a fall-inspired finish.
Cream Cheese Glaze: Blend cream cheese, sugar, and milk for a richer, tangy topping that pairs perfectly with the buttery crumb.

💡 Bonus Tip:

You can also turn this recipe into mini coffee cakes or muffins by using a muffin tin — just bake for 20–25 minutes instead of 40. These make perfect grab-and-go breakfast treats or brunch bites!

Variations and Add-Ins to Try

One of the most wonderful things about this easy sour cream coffee cake is how adaptable it is. Once you’ve nailed the classic version, you can start having fun with creative variations and add-ins that bring new flavors and textures to the table. Whether you’re craving something fruity, nutty, or extra indulgent, this homemade coffee cake can be customized to suit any season or occasion.

🍎 1. Fruity Coffee Cake Variations

Add a natural burst of sweetness and moisture with fresh or frozen fruit. Fruits not only add flavor but also create beautiful color contrasts inside the cake.

Blueberry Coffee Cake: Add 1 cup (150 g) of fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter. The berries release a juicy sweetness that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake: Fold in 1 cup (120 g) of peeled and finely chopped apples and add a pinch of nutmeg for a cozy, fall-inspired twist.
Peach or Raspberry Coffee Cake: Use 1 cup (150 g) of chopped peaches or raspberries for a fruity and refreshing summer version.
Strawberry Swirl Coffee Cake: Gently swirl in a few spoonfuls of strawberry jam or puree before baking for a beautiful marbled effect.

Tip: Toss fruit lightly in a tablespoon of flour before adding it to the batter. This prevents it from sinking to the bottom while baking.

🌰 2. Nutty Add-Ins for a Delicious Crunch

For those who love texture, adding nuts is a simple yet flavorful way to elevate your coffee cake. Nuts provide a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s soft, buttery crumb.

Pecan Streusel Coffee Cake: Add ½ cup (60 g) chopped pecans to your cinnamon streusel topping for extra crunch.
Walnut Coffee Cake: Mix ¼ cup (30 g) chopped walnuts directly into the batter for a nutty surprise in every bite.
Almond Coffee Cake: Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract and top with sliced almonds for a fragrant, nutty finish.
Nut-Free Alternative: Add rolled oats to your streusel topping for crunch without the nuts — a great option for families with allergies.

🍫 3. Sweet and Indulgent Twists

Turn your classic coffee cake into a more decadent dessert-style version with chocolate, caramel, or extra spices.

Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake: Stir in ½ cup (90 g) mini chocolate chips into the batter for a rich and sweet twist.
Caramel Swirl Coffee Cake: Layer a few tablespoons of caramel sauce between the batter layers before baking for a gooey, buttery surprise.
Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake: Double the cinnamon in your streusel topping and drizzle the finished cake with cream cheese glaze for a cinnamon roll-inspired version.
Maple Coffee Cake: Add a tablespoon of pure maple syrup to the batter for a warm, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.

🍯 4. Flavor Enhancements and Spices

Spices can completely transform your homemade sour cream coffee cake into a bakery-style masterpiece.

Warm Spice Mix: Add ½ teaspoon cardamom or ¼ teaspoon allspice to the dry ingredients for a subtle depth of flavor.
Citrus Zest: Stir in 1 teaspoon lemon or orange zest for a fresh, aromatic touch that balances the richness of the sour cream.
Vanilla or Almond Fusion: Combine vanilla and almond extract for a delicate blend of sweet and nutty aromas.
Coconut Lovers’ Twist: Add ¼ cup shredded coconut to the streusel for a tropical note and an extra layer of texture.

🍶 5. Glazes, Drizzles, and Toppings

Finish your coffee cake with a beautiful glaze or drizzle to make it bakery-perfect. Glazes not only add sweetness but also enhance the cake’s presentation.

Vanilla Glaze: Whisk together ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar, 1–2 tablespoons milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Cream Cheese Glaze: Combine 2 oz (55 g) cream cheese, ¼ cup powdered sugar, and 1 tablespoon milk for a rich and tangy topping.
Maple Glaze: Blend ½ cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons maple syrup and a splash of milk for a warm, autumn-inspired finish.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: If you prefer something simpler, sprinkle a light layer of cinnamon and powdered sugar right before serving for an elegant touch.

🧁 6. Mini and Seasonal Versions

Don’t limit yourself to one size or style — this recipe works beautifully in other forms, too!

Mini Coffee Cakes or Muffins: Divide the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake for 20–25 minutes. Perfect for brunches or grab-and-go breakfasts.
Bundt Pan Coffee Cake: Bake in a 10-inch Bundt pan for 45–50 minutes to create a show-stopping presentation for holidays.
Holiday Variation: Add red cranberries and a hint of orange zest during Christmas season for a festive touch.

💡 Pro Tip:

The beauty of this sour cream coffee cake is that it’s a blank canvas. You can adapt it to match any flavor you love or any season of the year — fruity for summer, spiced for fall, nutty for winter, and light for spring. No matter how you customize it, you’ll still get that soft, buttery crumb and irresistible cinnamon aroma that makes this cake so special.

Easy Sour Cream Coffee Cake That Melts in Your Mouth

Why You’ll Love This Sour Cream Coffee Cake