There is nothing better than this quick caramel coffee cake. A delightful crumb is placed on top of the incredibly soft sour cream cake base, and a drizzle of salted caramel sauce completes the dish. It's quick to put together and ideal for a comfortable afternoon.
A cup of coffee
or tea goes well with the rich, salty-sweet richness that the salted caramel
adds. For any occasion, but particularly for brunch gatherings, homemade caramel
coffee cake is the ideal option. Everyone enjoys the warm scent that permeates
your kitchen as it bakes and its rich, buttery flavor, which creates a homey
ambiance.
For those of us
who wish to amaze without spending all day in the kitchen, this recipe is ideal
because it's quite simple to prepare on a weekend baking day. This cake's soft
texture and sweet and salty caramel topping make it an absolute favorite
anytime you need a treat, whether you're eating a slice after dinner or as a
mid-afternoon treat.
Why You Will
Love this Caramel Coffee Cake Recipe?
Crumb Topping: This buttery, crunchy crumb topping with cinnamon enriches the moist cake by providing a delicious contrast.
Salted Caramel: The rich, salty, and sweet flavors of the salted caramel that is drizzled over it give it a gourmet feel.
Ease of Preparation: This recipe is easy to make with basic ingredients and simple processes, so you can enjoy it whenever you want.
Caramel Coffee Cake Recipe
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Course: breakfast, dessert
Cuisine: American
Servings: 9 pieces
Equipment to Make this Caramel Coffee Cake
- 8 x 8 metal baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- A kitchen scale or measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Parchment paper
Ingredients to Make This Caramel Coffee Cake
For crumb topping:
- Eight teaspoons (113 grams) If salted butter is not available, add ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt to the melted salted butter
- ½ cup (100 grams) dark brown sugar packed
- ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
- Two tsp cinnamon
- 1 ¼ cups (156 grams) all-purpose flour
For the cake:
- Eight tablespoons, or 113 grams room temperature unsalted butter
- One-half cup (100 grams) Granulated sugar
- One large egg at ambient temperature
- ⅓ cup room-temperature sour cream
- ¼ cup of whole milk
- Two teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 180 grams, or 1 ½ cups All-purpose flour
- Half a teaspoon of baking powder
- Half a teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
Instructions to Make this Caramel Coffee Cake
- Set the oven's temperature to 325°F. Use parchment paper to line an 8 x 8 metal baking pan.
- Combine the sugars, cinnamon, and ¾ cup of flour in a medium bowl. Add the melted butter and stir thoroughly. It'll crumble. Mix in the rest of the flour until it crumbles and has big chunks. Place aside.
For the cake:
- Beat the sugar and butter together for approximately three minutes, or until light and fluffy, using a stand or handheld mixer.
- Add the egg and stir to incorporate. Mix for 30 seconds after adding the sour cream, milk, and vanilla. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
- Mix the baking soda, baking powder, flour, and salt with a whisk. In two batches, add it and stir to blend. Don't mix too much.
- Evenly distribute the batter after pouring it into the pan.
- Evenly distribute the crumble on top (split it up if necessary). To guarantee consistent baking, place it on the middle rack of the oven rather than too near the top or bottom. A toothpick put into the center should come out clean after 40 minutes of baking. Cover the cake loosely with foil if it starts to brown before the 40-minute mark.
- Let cool before adding caramel on top.
- Once cooled, drizzle with salted caramel.
Storing Caramel Coffee Cake
Refrigerator: The cake should not be kept in the
refrigerator, in my opinion. Baked items are dried out when they are
refrigerated.
Freezer: Keep the chilled can in the freezer
for up to two months in an airtight container. Ideally, you should freeze
without the caramel sauce.
Tips to Keep in Mind When Making Caramel Coffee Cake
Use Ingredients at Room Temperature:
Allowing your dairy and eggs reach room temperature promotes even mixing and a
smoother batter.
Don’t Skip the Salt or Vanilla Extract: Because vanilla is the primary flavor in the cake, it is imperative that you use both salt and vanilla extract to improve the flavor.
FAQs About Caramel Coffee Cake
Can
this caramel coffee cake be frozen?
Indeed! The cake without the caramel sauce on top should be frozen. Before
serving, defrost on the counter at room temperature and top with caramel.
Is it possible to double this recipe?
Indeed! If you double this recipe, a 9x13 pan will work, but it will take
longer to bake; check after 35 minutes. I strongly suggest using a metal baking
pan.
Can I use a round cake pan to make this?
Indeed! Be sure to grease the pan and use parchment paper to line it.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes! If you’re short on time,
you can absolutely use ready-made caramel. Warm it slightly before drizzling
for a smoother finish.
How do I make a gluten-free version?
Substitute regular flour with
caramel coffee cake with gluten-free flour (a 1:1 gluten-free
baking blend). Add a tablespoon of extra yogurt to help bind the batter.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes. Bake it a day in advance,
cool completely, and cover tightly. Reheat slightly before serving and drizzle
fresh caramel for that homemade touch.
Can I add other flavors?
Absolutely! Try adding
cinnamon or espresso powder to the batter for a deeper flavor.
Serving
Suggestions with this Caramel Coffee Cake
Here are a few ideas:
- Enjoy a warm slice with your morning coffee or latte
- Serve as a dessert with vanilla ice cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream and an extra caramel drizzle for guests
- Best for brunch tables, holiday breakfasts, or coffee breaks
When it comes to beverages,
here are the best drinks to pair with
caramel coffee cake:
- Cappuccino or macchiato for creamy balance
- Espresso for a strong contrast
- Cold brew or iced coffee for summer mornings
Delicious
Variations of Caramel Coffee Cake
Here are some of the most
delicious twists on the classic caramel coffee cake you can try:
- Salted Caramel Coffee Cake
- Caramel Cream Cheese Streusel Coffee Cake
- Pecan Caramel Coffee Cake
- Apple Caramel Coffee Cake
- Chocolate Caramel Coffee Cake
- Mini Caramel Coffee Cakes
- Gluten-Free Caramel Coffee Cake
Real-World Applications
and Inspiration
This sweet, buttery treat has
made its way into cafés, bakeries, and even corporate events. Whether you’re a
baker, café owner, or simply someone who enjoys experimenting with desserts,
there are countless ways to use and showcase this caramel coffee cake.
Here are a few real-world
ideas and inspirations for putting your soft caramel coffee cake to delicious
use:
Café and
Bakery Menus
In coffee shops around the
world, caramel coffee cake is a staple. It pairs perfectly with espresso-based
drinks.
Add a salted caramel coffee
cake slice to your menu as a seasonal special.
Offer mini caramel coffee
cakes or muffins for
grab-and-go orders.
Use locally sourced butter,
brown sugar, or cream to promote it as a “homemade-style” specialty.
Dessert
Tables and Events
Hosting a brunch, wedding, or
baby shower?
A caramel coffee cake can be
the centerpiece of your dessert
table.
Serve small squares on tiered
trays with coffee shots or mini cappuccinos.
Add toppings like caramel
drizzle, crushed nuts, or edible gold dust for an elegant look.
Create individual caramel
coffee cake cups layered with cream and caramel for modern dessert bars.
Gift Boxes
and Homemade Presents
Everyone loves receiving
homemade baked goods.
Bake it in mini loaf pans and
wrap in parchment with twine for a rustic look.
Add a jar of homemade caramel
sauce and a small coffee bag to create a “Coffee & Cake Gift Set.”
Best for holidays,
housewarmings, or thank-you gifts.
Seasonal and
Holiday Twists
Caramel is naturally cozy and
festive, which makes this cake an ideal base for seasonal variations.
In autumn, make apple caramel
coffee cake with cinnamon for a fall twist.
For winter holidays, drizzle
white chocolate or add crushed peppermint for a festive look.
Around Valentine’s Day,
heart-shaped mini caramel coffee cakes with salted caramel glaze make charming
gifts.
Combining It with Other Desserts
Think beyond cake — your
caramel coffee cake can inspire creative fusion desserts:
Caramel Coffee Cake Parfait: Layer crumbled cake with whipped cream and caramel.
Ice Cream Sandwiches:
Slice thin layers of cake and pair them with vanilla or espresso ice cream.
Coffee Cake Trifles:
Combine cake cubes, caramel sauce, and cream cheese frosting in clear jars for
a visual treat.
Conclusion:
Caramel Coffee Cake
Baking your own best caramel coffee cake for breakfast is extremely enjoyable, from the moment you watch the caramel bubble to the moment you smell the buttery aroma and ultimately take that first taste.
Try this recipe at home instead of going to the bakery the next time you're craving something special. It will undoubtedly become a family favorite whether it is served for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
If you loved this caramel coffee cake, explore our other coffee dessert recipes.
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Oven French Toast with Nut Topping