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–+ servings
Cream Cheese Coffee Cake
Cream Cheese Coffee Cake is a classic American bakery-style cake that blends a tender yeast-based dough with a rich cream cheese filling. Coffee cakes became popular in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often served alongside coffee during social gatherings and weekend breakfasts. This version stands out for its soft, lightly sweetened bread base paired with a creamy, slightly tangy center. The balance between fluffy dough and velvety filling makes it both comforting and indulgent, perfect for brunch tables, holiday mornings, or an afternoon coffee break.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 520 kcal

Ingredients
  

Part I – Dough:

  • 1 cake yeast (large, or 2¼ tsp active dry yeast)
  • 3 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 2 cups milk
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour

Part II – Cream Cheese Filling:

  • ½ lb butter (softened)
  • 1 ½ lb cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp lemon extract
  • ½ cup raisins (optional)
  • 6 eggs (added one at a time)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Heat the Milk

  • Bring the milk to a boil.
  • Allow it to cool until lukewarm.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

  • Dissolve the yeast in ¼ cup lukewarm water.
  • Let it stand until slightly foamy.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

  • Add the yeast mixture to the lukewarm milk.
  • Stir in 3 tablespoons sugar and 3 cups flour.
  • Beat well until smooth.
  • Set aside in a warm place to rise.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Cheese

  • In another bowl, cream the butter until light.
  • Add the cream cheese and blend well.

Step 5: Add Flavorings

  • Mix in the salt and sugar.
  • Add vanilla and lemon extract.

Step 6: Incorporate Eggs

  • Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Step 7: Add Raisins

  • Fold in raisins if using.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

  • Spread the risen dough into a greased cake pan.
  • Pour or spread the cream cheese mixture over the dough.

Step 9: Bake

  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes or until golden and set.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

  • Allow to cool slightly before slicing.
  • Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips

  • Add a cinnamon streusel topping before baking for extra texture.
  • Substitute lemon zest for lemon extract for fresher flavor.
  • Use golden raisins or dried cranberries instead of regular raisins.
  • Add sliced almonds on top for crunch.
  • Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
  • Replace half the milk with buttermilk for tang.
  • Bake in two smaller pans for gifting.
  • Add a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 9gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 17gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 160mgSodium: 320mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 950IUVitamin C: 0.5mgCalcium: 110mgIron: 1.8mg
Keyword brunch, classic recipes, coffee cake, comfort food, Cream Cheese, holiday baking, vintage baking, yeast dough
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