If you’re in the mood for something sweet, cozy, and packed with warm cinnamon flavor, this Streusel Coffee Cake is exactly what you need. With its buttery crumb, cinnamon-sugar swirls, and generous streusel topping, this cake strikes the perfect balance between soft and crunchy textures. Whether paired with your morning coffee or served as a comforting dessert, it brings that homemade bakery charm right to your kitchen.

Each bite of this rich, moist coffee cake delivers layers of vanilla cake hugged by a ribbon of brown sugar and cinnamon, topped with a buttery crumble that adds a delightful crunch. It’s an all-time classic, ideal for casual brunches, holiday breakfasts, or an afternoon treat that feels like a warm hug. The best part? It’s simple enough to whip up on a relaxed weekend but impressive enough to serve to guests.
Ingredients for this Streusel Coffee Cake
For the cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the cinnamon sugar swirl:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the streusel topping:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Storage Instructions
To keep your Streusel Coffee Cake fresh and delicious, follow these easy storage tips:
- Room Temperature: Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight.
- Refrigerator: If you want it to last a little longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving to soften the streusel topping.
- Freezer: This coffee cake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Estimated Nutrition
(Per serving — based on 12 servings total)
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 4g
Note: These values are estimates and may vary depending on exact ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this Streusel Coffee Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake it the day before and store it covered at room temperature or in the fridge until ready to serve.
2. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It will still give the cake a moist texture with a slight tang.
3. How do I keep the streusel topping crispy?
Let the cake cool uncovered at first, then store loosely covered or in a container with a bit of ventilation to avoid trapping too much moisture.
4. Can I add nuts or fruit to the cake?
Definitely. Chopped pecans or walnuts go well in the streusel, and berries like blueberries can be folded into the batter.
5. Is this cake very sweet?
It’s sweet but not overpowering. The cinnamon swirl and streusel add most of the sweetness, while the cake itself is more balanced.
6. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure all your ingredients (especially baking powder) are certified gluten-free.
7. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A quick 10–15 seconds in the microwave brings back the softness and warmth. For larger pieces, use a low oven for about 5–10 minutes.
8. Does this cake contain coffee?
Nope! Despite the name, coffee cake traditionally doesn’t contain coffee—it’s simply meant to be served alongside a cup of it.

Streusel Coffee Cake
- Total Time: 51 minute
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Sink your fork into a warm, buttery slice of Streusel Coffee Cake, a beloved classic that brings cozy comfort to any morning or afternoon. With its soft vanilla crumb, luscious cinnamon sugar layers, and a golden streusel topping, this cake is a standout whether you’re looking for quick breakfast ideas, an easy dessert for guests, or a delightful treat with your coffee. Its irresistible combination of textures and flavors makes it one of the best food ideas for brunch or snack time. Perfectly sweet without being too much, it’s one of those easy recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.
Ingredients
For the cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
For the cinnamon sugar swirl:
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the streusel topping:
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Instructions
- Prepare the streusel: Mix brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Chill.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment.
- Mix the cinnamon sugar swirl ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
- Cream softened butter and granulated sugar. Add eggs one at a time. Stir in sour cream, milk, and vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Spread half the batter in the pan. Sprinkle half the cinnamon sugar. Add remaining batter and cinnamon sugar.
- Top evenly with streusel. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for 20 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast