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–+ servings
Sour Cream Coffee Cake
Sour Cream Coffee Cake is a classic American baked treat known for its tender crumb and rich, slightly tangy flavor. Popularized in mid-20th-century home kitchens, this cake became a staple for gatherings, brunches, and afternoon coffee breaks. The addition of sour cream gives it exceptional moisture and a delicate texture, setting it apart from traditional butter cakes. Often paired with a cinnamon-sugar topping, it delivers a comforting balance of sweetness and warmth. This version reflects a practical, handwritten approach to baking, simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and reliable results, making it a timeless favorite for both everyday baking and special occasions.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 egg
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 1 tbsp softened butter
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp baking soda
  • ¾ tsp salt

Brown Sugar Topping:

  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • 2 tbsp softened butter

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Batter Base

  • Beat egg in a mixing bowl
  • Add sugar and butter

Step 2: Cream Ingredients

  • Cream mixture until light and fluffy

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

  • Add sour cream and vanilla
  • Blend thoroughly

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, sift flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt

Step 5: Mix Batter

  • Add dry ingredients to sour cream mixture
  • Blend until smooth

Step 6: Prepare Pan

  • Grease an 8-inch square baking pan

Step 7: Pour Batter

  • Pour batter evenly into prepared pan

Step 8: Make Topping

  • Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter until crumbly

Step 9: Add Topping

  • Sprinkle topping evenly over batter

Step 10: Bake

  • Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes

Step 11: Serve

  • Serve warm

Tips

  • Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
  • Swirl half the topping into the batter for a layered effect
  • Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream
  • Add a streusel topping for extra texture
  • Include raisins for a vintage twist
  • Dust with powdered sugar before serving
  • Serve with whipped cream or glaze drizzle
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 1gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 320IUCalcium: 80mgIron: 1.2mg
Keyword Baking, brunch, cinnamon, classic recipe, coffee cake, comfort food, homemade, sour cream, vintage