Name: Christmas Coffee Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Let’s talk about Christmas, and more specifically, about the mornings. For as long as I can remember, our family’s Christmas morning has always included some sort of some kind of Christmas pudding. What are some of the best breakfast treats What is a cinnamon roll recipe? My grandmother always takes center stage and creates the most amazing cozy atmosphere – my grandmother’s. **Christmas Coffee Cake**. What is a coffee cake? What’s like if a cinnamon roll was sprinkled with whipped cream, and then the baby was suckered up with the sugar? What is Christmas magic? Imagine that warm, spiced aroma filling your house while you open presents… it’s that good! If you love a good crumb cake with your morning coffee, you absolutely *need* to try this. **Christmas Coffee Cake** recipe. Is this a game changer?

What is a Christmas coffee cake?

What is this Christmas coffee cake? What is a coffee cake? It’s essentially a moist, tender cake, swirled with generous filling of cinnamon, spices, and nuts. – the exact blend depends on what’s on hand, but I find a touch of nutmeg and cardamom really work. What is Christmas? What’s the best glaze you’ve ever had? The name comes from the fact that it’s the perfect accompaniment to a steaming cup of coffee – and does not taste like coffee. Is it a good Christmas morning? Is this a treat that’s both comforting and celebratory, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones? During the holiday season.

Why Do You Love This Recipe?

Why am I obsessed with this **Christmas Coffee Cake** recipe? First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world! The combination of warm spices, sweet glaze, and tender cake is just irresistible. It’s sweet but not too sweet, and the hint of spice gives it such a cozy, festive vibe. What I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make. What is the beauty of the swirl? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. What is the kind of recipe that looks like you spent hours slaving away in the kitchen, but in reality, it is a recipe. It comes together pretty quickly. What is the best recipe for a budget friendly meal? No fancy ingredients, which is always a bonus during the expensive holiday season. I often find myself comparing this to other holiday baked goods – like gingerbread or sugar cookies. I love Christmas cakes but this **Christmas Coffee Cake** is just so much more satisfying and delicious. Is it easier to whip up? What can I substitute for pecans and walnuts for the filling? What are some good dates to eat with cranberries? Is it a win-win situation?

How do I make a Christmas coffee cake?

Quick Overview

How do I make a Christmas coffee cake? How do you make a cinnamon-nut cake? What happens when you layer the batter and filling in a baking pan? After baking, you’ll drizzle it with a creamy glaze. What’s the best part about a swirl? Is it still good to eat? What is a forgiving recipe?

Ingredients

For the Main Batter: What are some examples?
* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: I prefer unbleached for a better flavor. * 1 cup granulated sugar: * 1 teaspoon baking powder: For a light and fluffy texture. 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps with browning and adds a subtle tang. What’s the secret to a moist cake? Full fat is best, but low fat works too. * 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and flavor. Make sure it’s cooled slightly before adding it to the batter. * 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness. * 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a touch of warmth and enhances the other flavors. Use pure vanilla for the best taste! * 1/2 cup milk: Helps to bring the batter together. Whole milk is ideal, but any kind will work.

For the Filling:
* 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness. * 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Makes it easy to eat. What is the star of the show? * 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts: Adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. Is it safe to use ground nutmeg? * 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom: Totally optional, but I love the subtle floral notes it adds. * 2 tablespoons melted butter: Helps the filling stick together.

For the Glaze:
* 2 cups powdered sugar: The base of our sweet, creamy glaze. * 1/4 cup milk: * 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Add more or less to reach your desired consistency. Add a touch of sweetness and flavor. * Pinch of salt: What are some good ways to balance sweetness and enhance other flavors?

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

What is the best way to bake in an oven at 350°F? While the oven is heating up, grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. I like to use baking spray with flour already in it – it’s a lifesaver! What should I do to remove cake from oven?

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Whisking is important because it ensures that everything is evenly distributed. I always give it a good whisk for at least 30 seconds. It’s ok.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Set aside. How do I make sure the butter isn’t too hot or it will cook the eggs? I usually let it cool for a few minutes before adding it to the other wet ingredients.

Step 4: Combine

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. How do I avoid over mixing a cake? I always stop mixing when I still see streaks of flour and then gently fold them in with a fork. If I don’t have any flour at all, I start mixing again.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, chopped pecans or walnuts, nutmeg, cardamom (if using) and salt. Set aside. What are some ways to use) and melted butter I want the filling to be crumbly but not too wet. Mix well. If it seems too dry, add a tiny bit more melted butter.

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

How do I pour half of the batter into a baking pan? Sprinkle evenly with half of the cinnamon-nut filling. Then, pour the remaining batter over the filling and sprinkle with the rest of the filleding. What’s the fun part about swirling the filling into the batter? How do you create a marble effect? I like to make a figure-eight pattern across the surface of the cake.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 30 minutes, or until skewer comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end of baking; ovens can vary! If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil. I always rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even browning.

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before glazing. While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla and salt. In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, and vanilla extract. Mix well. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency. I like my glaze to be thick enough to coat the cake but still pourable. Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top.

Step 9: Slice & Serve

Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing. This **Christmas Coffee Cake** is delicious served warm or at room temperature. I always like to dust the slices with powdered sugar for a festive touch. Why don’t we forget coffee?

What should I serve it with?

What is a Christmas coffee cake? What are some other ways to enjoy coffee?For Breakfast:Serve it with a strong cup of coffee or latte for an indulgent start to your day. A side of fresh fruit, like berries or sliced oranges, adds freshness.For Brunch:What is a Christmas coffee cake? What are some of the best breakfasts? A dusting of powdered sugar and a sprig of fresh mint add to the look.As Dessert:What are some of the best after-dinner treats? Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. What is caramel sauce?For Cozy Snacks:Sometimes you just need a little something sweet in the afternoon. What is the best Christmas coffee cake recipe? What is the best way to enjoy a cup of tea or hot chocolate? My family always enjoys hot chocolate on Christmas Eve. We decorate the tree. What is the best way to kick off the holiday season?

How do I make a perfect Christmas coffee cake?

How do I make a delicious Christmas coffee cake? Years of baking this recipe!Mixing Advice:Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. If you don’t have any streaks of flour, fold it with a spatula.Swirl CustomizationDon’t be afraid to get creative with your swirl pattern! You can use a knife, skewer, or chopstick to create different designs. I’ve seen people use a spoon to create textured, rustic look. Just have fun with it!Ingredient Swaps:If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt. Is it good to bake a cake? You can also use different types of nuts in the filling, such as walnuts, almonds or even macadamia nuts.Baking Tips:Keep an eye on the cake at the end of baking. Is it important to check for doneness regularly? A wooden skewer inserted into the center should come out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil.Glaze Variations:Feel free to experiment with different flavors in the glaze. What’s a lemony twist? Is it possible to use different types of milk to make the glaze? I sometimes add a pinch of cinnamon to the glaze for extra warmth.Butter Tip:The melted butter added to the filling will solidify a bit after sitting, so make sure you evenly distribute it. How do you sprinkle it to prevent clumping?

What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?

Want to keep your **Christmas Coffee Cake** fresh and delicious? Here’s how to store it properly:

Room Temperature: You can store the cake at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cake for up to 5-7 days. Again, make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent it from absorbing any unwanted flavors from the refrigerator.

Freezer Instructions: For the longest storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap it again in aluminum foil. You can also freeze individual slices for easy snacking.

Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to store the cake for more than a day or two, I recommend waiting to glaze it until just before serving. This will prevent the glaze from becoming sticky or dissolving.

To reheat frozen cake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours. You can also warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds per slice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a good-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Look for one that contains xanthan gum for the best texture. You might need to add a bit more liquid (milk or water) as gluten-free flours tend to absorb more moisture. Watch the baking time closely, as gluten-free cakes can sometimes bake faster.

Do I need to peel the pecans or walnuts?

Nope! There’s no need to peel the pecans or walnuts. The skins add a bit of texture and flavor. Plus, it saves you time and effort! I only peel nuts if I’m using them for a very specific decorative purpose.

Can I make this as muffins instead?

Absolutely! This recipe works great as muffins. Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well. Fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full with batter, then sprinkle with the cinnamon-nut filling. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You’ll likely need to reduce the baking time since muffins bake faster than a cake. Keep a close eye on them!

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the batter by 1/4 cup. You can also use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey in place of some of the granulated sugar, but keep in mind that this will affect the texture of the cake. For the glaze, you can use less powdered sugar or add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

If you’re not a fan of glaze, you can simply dust the cake with powdered sugar. You can also make a simple streusel topping by combining flour, butter, and sugar. Sprinkle the streusel over the cake before baking for a delicious crunchy topping. Or, you can skip the topping altogether and enjoy the cake plain!

Final Thoughts

This **Christmas Coffee Cake** is truly a special treat. It’s the perfect way to create lasting memories with your loved ones during the holiday season. From the warm, spiced aroma filling your house to the sweet, creamy taste that melts in your mouth, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. And remember, don’t worry about perfection; the most important thing is to have fun in the kitchen and enjoy the process of creating something delicious!

If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other holiday baking recipes, like my classic gingerbread cookies and my decadent chocolate peppermint brownies. They’re all guaranteed to bring joy to your holiday table!

Happy baking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how your **Christmas Coffee Cake** turns out. Please leave a comment below and let me know if you tried it and what variations you made. I’d also love to see pictures of your creations! And don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. Let’s spread the holiday cheer together!