Yogurt Coffee Cake with Brown Sugar Cinnamon Topping: A Deliciously Moist and Flavorful Treat

Coffee cake is a timeless classic, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. This recipe elevates the traditional coffee cake by incorporating yogurt for added moisture and tang, and topping it all off with a generous layer of brown sugar cinnamon streusel. The result is a deliciously moist and flavorful cake that’s sure to impress.

This yogurt coffee cake recipe is surprisingly easy to make, using ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. The combination of the tangy yogurt, the warm spices, and the sweet, crunchy topping creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. Get ready to bake up a new favorite!

## Why Yogurt in Coffee Cake?

The secret to this coffee cake’s exceptional moistness lies in the yogurt. Yogurt adds a subtle tanginess that complements the sweetness of the cake, while also contributing to a tender and delicate crumb. The acidity in yogurt also helps to activate the baking soda, resulting in a lighter and fluffier cake. You can use either plain Greek yogurt or plain regular yogurt for this recipe; just make sure it’s not flavored or sweetened.

## The Irresistible Brown Sugar Cinnamon Topping

No coffee cake is complete without a generous topping, and this brown sugar cinnamon streusel is the perfect complement to the moist yogurt cake. The combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, and butter creates a crumbly, sweet topping that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The warm spices and the rich brown sugar provide a comforting and satisfying contrast to the tangy cake.

## Key Ingredients and Substitutions

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients you’ll need for this yogurt coffee cake, along with some possible substitutions:

* **All-Purpose Flour:** Forms the base of the cake and topping. You can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
* **Baking Powder & Baking Soda:** Leavening agents that help the cake rise. Make sure they are fresh for the best results.
* **Salt:** Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
* **Granulated Sugar:** Adds sweetness to the cake.
* **Eggs:** Provide structure and richness to the cake. Use large eggs for best results.
* **Plain Yogurt:** Adds moisture and tanginess to the cake. Greek yogurt or regular yogurt both work well. Use full-fat or low-fat, but avoid non-fat yogurt as it can make the cake dry. Sour cream can also be used as a substitute.
* **Vegetable Oil:** Adds moisture and keeps the cake tender. You can substitute with melted coconut oil or melted butter.
* **Vanilla Extract:** Enhances the flavor of the cake.
* **Brown Sugar:** Adds a rich, molasses-like flavor to the topping. Light or dark brown sugar both work well.
* **Cinnamon:** Adds warmth and spice to the topping. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a more complex flavor.
* **Butter:** Adds richness and flavor to the topping. Use cold, unsalted butter for the best results.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* 9×13 inch baking pan
* Mixing bowls
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Whisk
* Rubber spatula
* Pastry blender or fork (for making the streusel)

## Yogurt Coffee Cake Recipe

This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, even for beginner bakers. Follow the steps carefully for a perfect coffee cake every time.

**Yields:** 12 servings
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 35-40 minutes

**Ingredients:**

**For the Cake:**

* 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* ½ teaspoon baking soda
* ½ teaspoon salt
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 cup plain yogurt
* ½ cup vegetable oil
* 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

**For the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Topping:**

* ½ cup all-purpose flour
* ½ cup packed light brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* ¼ cup (4 tablespoons) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

**Instructions:**

**Get Started:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This prevents the cake from sticking.

**Make the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Topping:**

2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Whisk these dry ingredients together to evenly distribute the cinnamon.
3. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should be cold so that it creates a crumbly texture. If the butter gets too soft, the topping will be greasy.
4. Set the topping aside.

**Make the Cake Batter:**

5. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, yogurt, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated into the wet ingredients.
7. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake. A few streaks of flour are okay.

**Assemble and Bake:**

8. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Use a spatula to ensure the batter is evenly distributed in the pan.
9. Sprinkle the brown sugar cinnamon topping evenly over the batter. Make sure the entire surface of the cake is covered with the topping.
10. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched.

**Cool and Serve:**

11. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before cutting into squares and serving. This allows the cake to set slightly and makes it easier to cut.
12. Serve warm or at room temperature. This coffee cake is delicious on its own, or you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

## Tips for Baking the Perfect Yogurt Coffee Cake

* **Use room temperature ingredients:** Room temperature eggs and yogurt will incorporate more easily into the batter, resulting in a smoother and more even cake.
* **Don’t overmix the batter:** Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
* **Use cold butter for the topping:** Cold butter will create a crumbly texture for the topping. If the butter is too soft, the topping will be greasy.
* **Bake until a wooden skewer comes out clean:** This is the best way to test for doneness. If the skewer comes out with wet batter on it, the cake needs to bake longer.
* **Let the cake cool slightly before serving:** This allows the cake to set and makes it easier to cut.
* **Storage Instructions:** Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

## Variations and Adaptations

* **Add nuts:** Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the topping for added crunch and flavor. About ½ cup of chopped nuts is a good amount.
* **Add fruit:** Add fresh or frozen berries to the batter for a burst of flavor. Blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries all work well. Gently fold in about 1 cup of berries after mixing the batter.
* **Add chocolate chips:** Add chocolate chips to the batter or the topping for a chocolatey twist. Semisweet or milk chocolate chips both work well. Use about ½ cup of chocolate chips.
* **Add a glaze:** Drizzle a simple glaze over the cooled cake for added sweetness and visual appeal. Whisk together powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice until smooth, and then drizzle over the cake.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger to the batter or the topping for a warm and comforting flavor.
* **Lemon zest:** Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a bright, citrusy flavor.
* **Maple syrup:** Replace some of the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a richer, more complex flavor.

## Serving Suggestions

This yogurt coffee cake is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to take it to the next level:

* **Serve with coffee or tea:** Coffee cake and coffee are a classic pairing. Serve with your favorite brew for a comforting and satisfying treat.
* **Serve with whipped cream or ice cream:** A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a touch of indulgence.
* **Serve with fresh fruit:** A side of fresh berries or sliced fruit adds a burst of color and flavor.
* **Serve as part of a brunch spread:** This coffee cake is a perfect addition to any brunch spread. Serve alongside other breakfast favorites like eggs, bacon, and pancakes.

## Making Ahead and Freezing

This yogurt coffee cake can be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

You can also make the topping ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep the butter cold so that it doesn’t melt.

## Troubleshooting

* **Cake is dry:** This could be due to overbaking or using too much flour. Be sure to measure the flour accurately and bake the cake until a wooden skewer comes out clean, but not dry.
* **Cake is soggy:** This could be due to underbaking or using too much liquid. Be sure to bake the cake until a wooden skewer comes out clean and use the correct amount of liquid ingredients.
* **Topping is greasy:** This could be due to using butter that is too soft. Be sure to use cold butter for the topping.
* **Topping is not crumbly:** This could be due to overmixing the topping or using too much liquid. Mix the topping until just combined and use the correct amount of liquid ingredients.
* **Cake is not rising:** This could be due to using expired baking powder or baking soda. Be sure to use fresh leavening agents.

## Enjoy Your Delicious Yogurt Coffee Cake!

This yogurt coffee cake with brown sugar cinnamon topping is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its moist crumb, tangy flavor, and irresistible topping, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of this amazing coffee cake! You won’t be disappointed.