Lemon Coffee Cake
Lemon Coffee Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of butter, cream cheese, and a bright hint of lemon. This cake is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or an afternoon treat with your favorite coffee or tea. The soft texture and delicious lemon filling make this cake a standout for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this Lemon Coffee Cake because it’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. With its zesty lemon flavor and creamy texture, it’s a refreshing twist on traditional coffee cake. It’s a wonderful way to impress your family and friends at gatherings, or simply enjoy a slice by yourself. The combination of cheese and citrus makes for a unique and delicious experience!
How to Make Lemon Coffee Cake
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 15 ounces lemon pie filling or thick lemon curd
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (for filling)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
- 1 large egg for filling
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (for crumble)
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar (for crumble)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for crumble)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled (for crumble)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Spread the lemon filling over it, then top with the cream cheese filling. Pour the remaining batter on top.
- For the crumble topping, mix the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a separate bowl. Stir in the melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the batter in the pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan before inverting it onto a plate.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cake. Enjoy!
How to Serve Lemon Coffee Cake
Serve Lemon Coffee Cake warm or at room temperature. It goes wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. You can cut it into slices and place them on a beautiful platter for guests, making it a perfect addition to any brunch spread or dessert table.
How to Store Lemon Coffee Cake
Store any leftover Lemon Coffee Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before storing to keep it fresh.
Tips to Make Lemon Coffee Cake
- Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
- You can use homemade lemon curd for an even fresher taste if you want to elevate the flavor.
- Test the cake for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean from the center.
Variation
Try adding a layer of fresh blueberries or poppy seeds into the cake batter for an exciting twist! You can also switch the lemon filling for a different fruit filling if you prefer.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pan instead of a bundt pan?
Yes, you can use a loaf pan or a round cake pan. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as different pans can change the cooking time.
2. Is there a way to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour mixes designed for baking.
3. Can I freeze Lemon Coffee Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Enjoy baking and indulging in this delicious Lemon Coffee Cake!