Snickerdoodle Coffee Cake: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite

Craving something sweet and comforting? Snickerdoodle coffee cake combines the classic flavors of snickerdoodle cookies with the moistness of a coffee cake. This delightful treat will make your mornings brighter and your afternoons sweeter!

Imagine a soft, buttery cake infused with warm vanilla and a swirl of cinnamon sugar. Each slice is a warm hug, perfect alongside your favorite cup of coffee or tea. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that brings joy to every bite.

Let’s dive into this easy snickerdoodle coffee cake recipe and turn your kitchen into a haven of delightful aromas. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this irresistible cake that will have them coming back for more!

Why This Snickerdoodle Coffee Cake is a Must-Try

This snickerdoodle coffee cake stands out for several reasons:

Cookie Flavor in Cake Form: It captures the essence of a classic snickerdoodle cookie with a moist, buttery cake base.
Layers of Cinnamon Sugar: A delicious cinnamon sugar layer runs through the center, adding sweetness and spice.
Crispy Cinnamon Topping: The crunchy topping provides a delightful texture contrast, making each bite exciting.
Versatile Serving Options: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon treat with coffee, it fits any occasion.

Ingredient Notes

Key Ingredients

Here’s a detailed look at the ingredients needed for this delightful cake:

Ingredient	Purpose	Notes
All-Purpose Flour	Base for the cake	Can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Baking Powder	Leavening agent	Ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
Baking Soda	Helps with leavening and color	Used alongside baking powder for optimal texture.
Kosher Salt	Enhances flavor	Regular salt can be substituted.
Unsalted Butter	Adds moisture and flavor	Ensure it’s at room temperature for easier creaming.
Granulated Sugar	Sweetness and structure	Can be reduced for less sweetness.
Dark Brown Sugar	Adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor	Can use light brown sugar but will have a lighter taste.
Eggs	Binds ingredients and adds moisture	Room temperature eggs mix better into the batter.
Vanilla Extract	Enhances flavor	Use pure vanilla extract for best results.
Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream	Adds moisture and tang	Greek yogurt creates a denser cake; sour cream adds richness.

Cinnamon Sugar Filling

Dark Brown Sugar: Provides depth of flavor.
Cinnamon: The spice that defines the snickerdoodle experience.

Vanilla Glaze

Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
Whole Milk: Thins out the glaze for easy drizzling.
Vanilla Extract: Adds flavor to the glaze.

Recipe Instructions

Step-by-Step Process

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, and ½ tsp kosher salt. Set aside.
Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a separate bowl, mix together ⅓ cup dark brown sugar and 1 ½ tsp cinnamon. Set aside for later use.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer, cream ½ cup unsalted butter and ¾ cup granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Gradually add in 2 large eggs and 1 tbsp vanilla extract, mixing well until fully combined.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Mix in half of the flour mixture on low speed until almost combined. Add ¾ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream) and mix until incorporated. Then, add the remaining flour mixture and mix until just combined.
Layer the Batter: Spread half of the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle all but 2-3 tablespoons of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top. Spread the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar layer.
Add Topping: Sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top of the batter.
Bake: Bake for 30-33 minutes or until the center is puffed and springs back when lightly touched. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Cool and Glaze: Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack. In the meantime, prepare the glaze by whisking together ½ cup powdered sugar, 1-2 tbsp whole milk, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Serve: Cut into squares and serve with your favorite hot beverage.

Expert Baking Tips

Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and butter helps create a smoother batter and a more uniform texture.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix until just combined to prevent a dense texture. Overmixing can lead to large holes in the crumb.
Check for Doneness: To prevent dryness, check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. The cake should be lightly golden and spring back when touched.
Use a Kitchen Scale: Weighing your ingredients can ensure accuracy and improve your baking results.

Storage & Freezing Tips

Storing Leftovers

Room Temperature: Store the coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: If you prefer it chilled, it can last up to 1 week in the fridge, but the texture might change.

Freezing Instructions

Wrap and Store: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 1 month in the freezer.
Thawing: To thaw, leave it in the refrigerator overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute Greek yogurt with something else?

Yes, you can use sour cream or even buttermilk in place of Greek yogurt for similar moisture and flavor.

What can I serve with Snickerdoodle Coffee Cake?

It pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.

How do I make this cake gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can make it a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight!

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this snickerdoodle coffee cake, you might also like:

Cinnamon Roll Cake: Another delightful breakfast treat with a gooey cinnamon swirl.
Banana Bread: A classic favorite that’s easy to make and perfect for using overripe bananas.
Pumpkin Spice Muffins: Fall in a muffin form, these are moist and packed with flavor.

Conclusion

Snickerdoodle Coffee Cake is an easy and delicious recipe that brings the beloved flavors of snickerdoodle cookies into a moist and fluffy cake. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to please friends and family alike. By following the detailed instructions and tips provided, you can achieve bakery-quality results right from your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the process of baking this delightful treat!

By offering detailed instructions, expert tips, and helpful storage information, this guide aims to make the baking process enjoyable and accessible to everyone. Happy baking!