Starbucks Coffee Cake Cinnamon

This Starbucks-inspired coffee cake nails that tender crumb and sweet cinnamon swirl just like the classic treat you remember from the bakery counter. It has become my go-to for brunches and family gatherings when everyone wants something comforting and nostalgic alongside their coffee. A rich swirl of cinnamon streusel layered through the soft vanilla-scented cake makes every bite a little celebration.

Every time I bring this to a potluck it disappears in no time. I first made it on a whim with my kids during a rainy afternoon and now it is one of our special weekend treats.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: For richness in the cake and crumble Use European style for more flavor if you can
• Granulated sugar: Helps give structure and sweetness Choose superfine for a more delicate crumb if available
• Large eggs: Room temperature eggs emulsify best and create a smoother batter
• Vanilla extract: Adds aroma and warmth Go for pure vanilla instead of imitation for the richest flavor
• Greek yogurt: This is the secret for an extra-moist crumb Choose full fat for the best result
• Cake flour: Produces a tender fine crumb Sift to remove lumps and add lightness
• Baking powder: Lifts the cake for height and airiness
• Baking soda: Helps with browning and tang from yogurt
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness Use kosher salt if possible for better mixing
• Light brown sugar: Sweetens the cinnamon streusel and adds a hint of molasses Pick fresh soft sugar for best results
• All-purpose flour: Adds texture to the streusel
• Ground cinnamon: The star of the swirl Freshly ground makes the brightness pop
• Butter for streusel: Must be very cold to create distinct crumbly texture I freeze and cube it before mixing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Grease a thirteen by nine inch baking dish with softened butter or line it with parchment paper to ensure the cake releases easily after baking

Cream the Butter and Sugar:

Beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a stand or hand mixer on medium speed for about three minutes Scrape the bowl often and stop when the mixture looks pale and fluffy This is essential for a soft airy cake

Add the Eggs:

Add eggs one at a time beating well after each one Pause to scrape down the bowl so the batter stays homogenous and smooth

Mix the Wet Ingredients:

In a separate bowl whisk the vanilla extract into the Greek yogurt Mix until fully blended The yogurt helps keep the cake moist and light

Sift and Combine the Dry Ingredients:

In another bowl sift together cake flour baking powder baking soda and salt to remove any lumps This ensures everything distributes evenly

Alternate Adding Dry and Wet:

Add one third of the dry ingredients to the butter egg mixture then one third of the yogurt mixture Gently fold to combine Repeat this process in thirds alternating dry and wet which keeps the batter tender and prevents overmixing

Make the Cinnamon Streusel:

In a bowl mix light brown sugar all-purpose flour cinnamon and salt Add in very cold cubed butter Use a fork or your fingers to work the butter in until the mixture forms small to medium crumbs The cold butter is key to a crumbly topping

Layer the Batter and Streusel:

Spread one third of the batter in the prepared pan all the way to the edges Sprinkle a portion of the cinnamon streusel in a thin even layer over the batter Repeat this process twice until you use up all the batter and streusel finishing with streusel on top

Bake:

Place in a preheated oven at three hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit Bake twelve to fifteen minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few dry crumbs Every oven bakes a bit differently so start checking at twelve minutes

Cool and Serve:

Let the cake rest in the pan for ten minutes before slicing into squares Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite hot coffee or tea

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My favorite part is always the crispy streusel edge pieces I remember as a kid fighting my brother for the corners with the most crumble The aroma of cinnamon fills the whole kitchen instantly making everyone excited for their slice

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers tightly covered at room temperature for up to three days If you want to keep slices longer wrap them individually and freeze for up to two months Let the cake thaw on the counter or give it a quick zap in the microwave to return that just baked softness

Ingredient Substitutions

If you only have sour cream swap it for the Greek yogurt in equal measure For a dairy free version use plant based yogurt and vegan butter You can even use all purpose flour if you do not have cake flour though the crumb will be ever so slightly denser

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Serving Suggestions

A warm square is perfect alongside a strong cup of coffee or a chai latte For brunch I sometimes drizzle a little maple glaze over the top or add a dollop of whipped cream Kids love it as an after school snack with a glass of milk

Cultural and Historical Context

Coffee cake with a cinnamon swirl is an American classic often found in diners and bakeries Its roots go back to central European yeast cakes but the crumbly streusel topped style became a staple in twentieth-century home baking Because it is so easy to share and transport it has become a must for church socials and potlucks in the US

Commonly Asked Questions

→ How can I ensure my coffee cake remains moist?

Incorporating Greek yogurt and not overmixing the batter keeps the cake tender and moist throughout.

→ What gives the cake its signature flavor?

A blend of brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla provides a classic warmth reminiscent of bakery coffee cakes.

→ Can I use regular flour instead of cake flour?

Cake flour yields a finer, softer crumb, but all-purpose flour can substitute if necessary—expect a slightly denser texture.

→ How do I create a crumbly streusel topping?

Use cold butter, cutting it into the sugar, flour, and cinnamon mixture until medium-sized crumbs form for an authentic streusel.

→ What's the best way to serve this coffee cake?

Allow to cool briefly after baking, then slice and enjoy with coffee or tea for a cozy treat any time of day.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

Yes, cover tightly and store at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.