Coffee Loaf Cake

Coffee loaf cake is a delightful and simple dessert that combines the comforting flavors of coffee with a soft, tender crumb. It’s perfect for coffee lovers, and the moist texture makes it an ideal treat for breakfast, dessert, or a mid-day snack. The balance of rich brewed coffee and tangy sour cream creates a deliciously moist loaf that pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a casual treat, this coffee loaf cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Plus, the best part is how easy it is to prepare, making it an ideal option even for beginner bakers. With its subtly sweet and coffee-infused flavor, this cake will certainly satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This coffee loaf cake combines two of the most beloved ingredients: coffee and cake. It’s incredibly moist thanks to the sour cream, with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. The brewed coffee adds a rich depth of flavor that balances the sweetness of the sugar. The addition of vanilla extract enhances the cake’s flavor, making it both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re serving it at brunch, as an afternoon snack, or as a dessert, this cake is sure to delight coffee enthusiasts and casual bakers alike. The recipe is simple to follow, making it a perfect go-to when you’re craving a coffee-flavored treat.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Sour cream
• Brewed coffee
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Variations

• Chocolate Coffee Loaf Cake: Add chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate-coffee fusion.
• Nutty Coffee Cake: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• Coffee Glaze: Drizzle a coffee glaze made with powdered sugar and brewed coffee over the top for added sweetness.
• Spiced Coffee Cake: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or cardamom to the dry ingredients to give the cake a warm, spiced flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan to prevent the cake from sticking during baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine with Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternately with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Be sure to mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.

Step 6: Stir in Brewed Coffee

Once the batter is smooth, stir in the brewed coffee until fully combined. The coffee will add moisture and flavor to the cake.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure the butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for the best texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in a dense loaf. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
• Measure ingredients correctly: Make sure to measure the flour accurately. Too much flour can make the cake dry.
• Check for doneness: The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

How to Serve

This coffee loaf cake is best served at room temperature or slightly warmed. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. You can serve it as-is with a light dusting of powdered sugar, or add a drizzle of glaze for extra sweetness. It also makes a fantastic brunch or dessert item, perfect for a casual gathering or as a gift for loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover coffee loaf cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer it slightly warmer, simply reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave them for 20-30 seconds for individual servings.

FAQs

1. Can I use decaffeinated coffee in this recipe?

Yes, decaffeinated coffee works just as well in this recipe.

2. Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute plain yogurt for sour cream in equal amounts.

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

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs.

4. Can I use instant coffee?

You can use instant coffee, but be sure to mix it with the appropriate amount of hot water as per the instructions on the package.

5. Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?

Yes, you can add chocolate chips to the batter for a delicious twist.

6. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

It’s best to use unsalted butter, but if you only have salted butter, reduce the amount of salt in the recipe.

7. How can I make the cake more moist?

Adding an extra tablespoon of butter or a bit of vegetable oil can increase the moisture in the cake.

8. Can I add nuts to the cake?

Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans would be a wonderful addition to the batter for added texture.

9. How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for longer shelf life.

10. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature for a few days or frozen for longer storage.

Conclusion

This coffee loaf cake is the perfect recipe for anyone who loves coffee-flavored treats. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and delightful texture, it’s a great addition to any baker’s repertoire. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a dessert, or as an afternoon snack, it will certainly become a favorite. The cake’s moist crumb and rich coffee flavor will leave everyone craving more, and it’s easy to make ahead, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and indulge in the comforting goodness of coffee and cake combined!

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