Welcome to the world of scrumptious coffee cakes, where flavors meld beautifully and every bite offers a delightful blend of textures. Today, we’re diving into a classic recipe that’s been lovingly perfected by one of the most respected names in baking: King Arthur Flour. In this post, we’ll explore the King Arthur coffee cake sour cream recipe, a dish renowned for its moist, tender crumb and rich flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe promises to be a game-changer in your kitchen.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from the history of coffee cake to detailed instructions on how to bake this beloved treat. We’ll also offer tips, tricks, and variations to help you customize the cake to your taste. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

1. What Makes King Arthur Coffee Cake Special?

Coffee cake is a classic baked good, often enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee or tea. Its origins trace back to European baking traditions, where it was originally enjoyed during coffee breaks or as a light dessert. King Arthur Flour, a company with a storied history and a reputation for high-quality baking products, has elevated this humble treat with their own unique twist.

The King Arthur coffee cake sour cream recipe stands out because of its use of sour cream, which adds a rich, tangy flavor and ensures a moist, tender crumb. This recipe combines traditional ingredients with modern techniques to create a coffee cake that is both flavorful and visually appealing.

2. Ingredients for the Perfect Coffee Cake

Before diving into the recipe, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need. For the King Arthur coffee cake sour cream recipe, here’s what you’ll require:

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Streusel Topping:

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

For the Glaze (optional):

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

These ingredients come together to create a coffee cake that’s not only rich in flavor but also has the perfect crumb texture.

3. Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Now that we have our ingredients, let’s get started on baking the King Arthur coffee cake sour cream recipe.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This ensures the cake will come out easily and helps prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If you’re adding nuts, fold them in now. Set the streusel topping aside.

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Add Sour Cream: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
5. Assemble the Cake: Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top and smooth it out. Finally, sprinkle the remaining streusel topping over the cake.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and the cake should spring back when lightly pressed.

Step 5: Cool and Glaze

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. If you’re using the glaze, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.

4. Tips for the Best Results

To ensure your King Arthur coffee cake sour cream recipe turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps them mix together more evenly and results in a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Check for Doneness: Start checking the cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Every oven is different, so it’s best to keep an eye on your cake.
• Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting and ensures it sets properly.

5. How to Serve and Store Your Coffee Cake

The King Arthur coffee cake sour cream recipe is a versatile treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast or Brunch: Serve a slice of this coffee cake with your morning coffee or tea for a delightful start to your day.
• Dessert: It also makes a great dessert after lunch or dinner. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
• Gift Idea: Wrap a few slices in parchment paper and tie with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Storing Your Cake

• Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cake within a few days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cake. It will keep for up to a week in the fridge.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

6. Variations and Substitutes

Feel free to get creative with the King Arthur coffee cake sour cream recipe by trying out these variations:

• Fruit Additions: Add fresh or frozen fruit, such as blueberries, raspberries, or diced apples, to the batter for added flavor and texture.
• Nut Variations: Use different nuts, like pecans or walnuts, in the streusel topping for a unique twist.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend if you need a gluten-free option.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free sour cream and butter substitutes to make this recipe dairy-free.

7. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different pan size?

Yes, you can use different pan sizes, but be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. For example, if using a 9-inch round pan, the cake may bake faster.

2. Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! The cake can be baked in advance and stored as mentioned above. It also freezes well, so you can prepare it ahead of time for special occasions.

3. How do I know when the cake is done?

Use a toothpick or cake tester to check for doneness. Insert it into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.

4. Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, the glaze is optional. The coffee cake is delicious on its own, but the glaze adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish.

5. What can I substitute for sour cream?

If you don’t have sour cream, you can use plain yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute. Both will add similar moisture and tang to the cake.

8. Related Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed making the King Arthur coffee cake sour cream recipe, here are some other recipes you might want to try:

• Our Favorite Sour Cream Coffee Cake Recipe
• King Arthur sour cream coffee cake
• King Arthur Baking Company’s Recipe of the Year

Conclusion

The King Arthur coffee cake sour cream recipe is a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and a tender crumb, making it a favorite for many. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee or serving it at a special gathering, this cake is sure to impress.

With this detailed guide, you