Aileen's Delightful Coffee Cake ☕🍰

Indulge in the rich flavors of Aileen's Coffee Cake, an irresistibly moist treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert! This cake combines creamy sour cream, warm cinnamon, and crunchy nuts for a delightful texture and taste. Whether paired with your morning coffee or enjoyed as an afternoon snack, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Don’t forget to serve it warm for an extra-special touch. ☕✨

Ingredients

For the cake batter

• ½ lb. unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. baking powder
• 1 tsp. baking soda

For the cinnamon nut topping

• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
• ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work great!)

Instructions

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and salt until light and fluffy.

🥄 Tip: Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier blending and a fluffier batter.

2. Add Flavors: Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the sour cream and beaten eggs to the mixture, stirring until blended.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda.

5. Combine Mixes: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just incorporated.

🥄 Note: Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if a few lumps remain for a lighter texture.

6. Layer the Batter: Spread half of the cake batter in a greased tube pan. In a small bowl, combine the sugar, cinnamon, and nuts, then sprinkle half of this mixture over the batter.

7. Add Remaining Batter: Pour the rest of the batter on top, followed by the remaining sugar and nut mixture.

8. Bake: Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Cool: Allow the cake to cool on a rack for 10 minutes before carefully removing it from the pan.

🥧 For extra indulgence, try drizzling a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cake!

Variations

• Fruit Twist: Add 1 cup of fresh blueberries or diced apples to the batter for a fruity enhancement! 🍏🍇
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version.
• Decadent Chocolate: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet surprise! 🍫
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon mixture for a unique twist.

Enjoy this delightful coffee cake with a steaming cup of your favorite brew, and relish every bite! ☕❤️