Go Back
–+ servings
Breakfast Cake from Larson
Breakfast cakes are a beloved staple in American kitchens, often appearing on weekend tables or during cozy family gatherings. This particular recipe, labeled "Proven," suggests it's a tried-and-true favorite passed down through generations. Popular during the mid-20th century, these cakes were a comforting way to start the day, especially when ingredients were basic but flavor was essential. With a light, fluffy base and either a cinnamon sugar or nutty streusel topping, this versatile cake is as homey as it gets. Adding apple pieces hints at regional variations, especially from the Northeastern U.S., where apple orchards are plentiful.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 310 kcal

Ingredients
  

Ingredients Cake

  • 2 cups flour (sifted)
  • 3 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1 egg

For Cinnamon Sugar Topping

  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar

For Streusel Topping (optional)

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 tbsp shortening
  • 1/4 cup nuts (chopped )

Optional Add-in

  • Apple pieces (placed in center)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar.

Step 3: Add Shortening

  • Cut in shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

  • Beat egg lightly and mix with milk.
  • Add the egg-milk mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.

Step 5: Prepare Topping

  • For cinnamon topping: Mix cinnamon and brown sugar.
  • For streusel topping: Mix all streusel ingredients with a fork until crumbly.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

  • Pour batter into prepared pan.
  • If using apple pieces, layer them in the center of the batter.
  • Sprinkle chosen topping over batter.
  • Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Tips

  • Swap in whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
  • Add a 1/2 tsp of vanilla or almond extract to the batter for extra flavor.
  • Make it fruity: Add blueberries or raspberries along with apple.
  • Serve warm with butter or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Nutrition

Calories: 310kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 280mgPotassium: 85mgFiber: 1gSugar: 26gVitamin A: 50IUCalcium: 90mgIron: 1.2mg
Keyword breakfast, cake, cinnamon, comfort food, family recipes, homemade, streusel, vintage
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!