For many, coffee cake since college has been more than just a delicious treat—it’s a bite of nostalgia. Whether it was a quick breakfast before an early morning lecture or a comforting snack during late-night study sessions, this moist, cinnamon-infused pastry was a go-to for countless students.
Even years after graduation, coffee cake since college continues to be a favourite among coffee lovers and home bakers alike. Its soft texture, sweet crumb topping, and ability to pair perfectly with a cup of coffee make it a staple in kitchens everywhere. If you’re looking for a variation with a twist, check out this Applesauce Crumb Cake, which offers a slightly spiced and fruity alternative.
If you want to master your homemade version, Serious Eats provides an expert guide to achieving the perfect texture and flavour.
A Brief History of Coffee Cake Since College
The origins of coffee cake date back to 17th-century Europe, particularly in Germany and Scandinavia, where sweet, spiced pastries were often paired with coffee.
In America, coffee cake evolved into the streusel-topped, cinnamon-scented version we love today. If you enjoy baked goods with a crumbly topping, you might love these Crumb Cake Muffins.
Why Coffee Cake Was a College Favorite
For students, coffee cake was the ultimate treat. Why?
- Affordable – Cheap and easy to make.
- Long shelf life – Stays fresh for days, making it perfect for dorm life.
- Pairs perfectly with coffee – A must-have during study sessions.
Many students also experimented with variations, from chocolate-infused coffee cakes to cream cheese-topped delights, similar to this Spiced Cream Cheese Bundt Cake.
Different Types of Coffee Cakes You Should Try
1. Classic Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake
- A traditional version with a crumbly cinnamon topping.
- Pairs best with medium-roast coffee.
2. Sour Cream Coffee Cake
- Sour cream keeps it moist and adds a tangy flavour.
- Great for brunch gatherings.
3. Blueberry Coffee Cake
- Fresh blueberries add a fruity sweetness.
- A perfect light dessert.
4. Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake
- Chocolate chips melted into the batter make this a treat for chocolate lovers.
- Works well with espresso-based drinks.
5. Vegan Coffee Cake
- Uses almond milk, coconut sugar, and a flaxseed egg substitute.
- Ideal for those who are dairy-free or vegan.
6. Gluten-Free Coffee Cake
- Uses almond flour, oat flour, or coconut flour instead of wheat flour.
- Tastes just as good while being healthier and easier to digest.
If you want to explore another breakfast pastry that pairs well with coffee, check out this French Breakfast Puffs recipe.
Coffee Cake Recipe with a Twist
Want to make your own coffee cake? Here’s a simple but flavorful recipe!
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | ½ cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Whole milk | ¾ cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Sour cream | ½ cup |
Baking Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch baking pan.
- Prepare the batter by whisking together flour, sugars, baking powder, and cinnamon.
- Mix wet ingredients (melted butter, eggs, milk, vanilla, sour cream) in a separate bowl.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients until smooth.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let it cool before slicing.
For a more indulgent twist, try a chocolate version similar to this Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake.
Perfect Coffee Pairings for Coffee Cake
Pairing coffee cake with the right coffee enhances its flavour. Here are some great choices:
- Light Roast Coffee – Ideal for fruit-infused coffee cakes.
- Medium Roast Coffee – Balances cinnamon and nut flavors.
- Espresso – Strong enough to cut through buttery streusel toppings.
If you prefer something different, chai lattes and hot cocoa are great alternatives.
Storage Tips for Coffee Cake
📦 How long does coffee cake last?
- Room temperature: 3 days (covered).
- Refrigerator: 1 week (airtight container).
- Freezer: Up to 3 months (wrapped in plastic & foil).
🔥 How to reheat?
- Microwave for 15-20 seconds for a fresh taste.
- Oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes for a crisp top.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
💡 Why is it called coffee cake if it doesn’t contain coffee?
It’s meant to be served with coffee, not made with it.
💡 What’s the difference between coffee cake and crumb cake?
Crumb cake has more streusel topping, while coffee cake has a lighter balance.
💡 Can I make coffee cake healthier?
- Use whole wheat flour
- Swap sugar for honey or maple syrup
- Replace butter with Greek yogurt
💡 Can I make a chocolate version?
Yes! Just add cocoa powder or melted chocolate to the batter.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re reminiscing about your college days or just craving something sweet, coffee cake is the perfect comfort food. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable and pairs perfectly with coffee.
If you want to explore more baked treats, check out this French Breakfast Puffs recipe for another nostalgic favourite.
What’s your favourite coffee cake memory? Share your thoughts below! ☕🍰