Grandma’s New England Coffee Cake Recipe

Every Sunday morning, my childhood home in a quiet New England town came alive with the aroma of Grandma’s New England Coffee Cake.

The warm scent of cinnamon and butter would pull us all to the kitchen, where we’d gather around the table, eager for a slice. This recipe, passed down through generations, holds a special place in my heart, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.

This coffee cake is more than just a treat—it’s a tradition that brings people together. With its soft, moist crumb, sweet cinnamon swirl, and crunchy streusel topping, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. Whether you’re baking for family or friends, this classic recipe will fill your home with warmth and nostalgia.

Why People Love This New England Coffee Cake

This coffee cake is a timeless favorite. Its tender texture and rich cinnamon flavor make every bite irresistible. The buttery streusel adds a delightful crunch.

It’s incredibly versatile. Enjoy it fresh from the oven or save it for the next day—it stays moist and delicious. It pairs perfectly with coffee or tea.

Grandma’s recipe is simple yet special. It uses everyday ingredients and doesn’t require advanced baking skills. It’s comfort food that feels like home.

The nostalgic charm is undeniable. This cake sparks memories of family gatherings and cozy mornings. It’s a recipe that creates new traditions with every bake.

Ingredients for Grandma’s Coffee Cake

You don’t need fancy ingredients for this recipe. Most items are pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need for the cake, swirl, and topping.

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream

For the Cinnamon Swirl

• ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, for warmth)

For the Streusel Topping

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Equipment Needed

No special tools are required. Basic kitchen items will do the job. Gather these before starting.

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls (small, medium, large)
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Follow these steps for a perfect coffee cake. Each step is clear and easy to follow.

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents the cake from sticking.

Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Set aside for layering later. This creates the cake’s signature swirl.

Make the Streusel Topping

In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in melted butter until crumbly, then add nuts if desired. This topping adds crunch.

Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This ensures even leavening. Set aside for the batter.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Use a mixer for 2-3 minutes. This makes the cake tender.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Add vanilla extract and blend. This adds richness and flavor.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add half the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, then half the sour cream. Repeat, mixing gently until just combined. Don’t overmix to keep the cake soft.

Layer the Batter and Swirl

Spread half the batter in the prepared pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over it. Top with the remaining batter, spreading carefully.

Add Streusel and Bake

Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to a cooling rack or serve directly from the pan. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information

This coffee cake is a treat, so enjoy it in moderation. The table below shows approximate nutritional values per serving (based on 9 servings).

Note: Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Tips for the Perfect Coffee Cake

These tips will help you nail Grandma’s recipe every time. They’re simple but make a big difference.

• Use room-temperature ingredients. Softened butter and eggs blend better for a smoother batter. This ensures a tender crumb.
• Don’t skip the sour cream. It adds moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness. Greek yogurt works as a substitute.
• Adjust the nuts. Pecans or walnuts add texture, but you can omit them for a nut-free version. Try almonds for a twist.
• Check doneness early. Ovens vary, so test with a toothpick at 35 minutes. Overbaking can dry out the cake.
• Store properly. Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for a month.

Serving Suggestions

This coffee cake shines on its own, but these ideas elevate the experience. Try them for different occasions.

1. Pair with coffee or tea. A hot drink complements the cake’s cinnamon flavor. Try it with a latte or herbal tea.
2. Add a dusting of powdered sugar. It gives a pretty finish for special occasions. Sift lightly just before serving.
3. Serve with fruit. Fresh berries or sliced apples add a bright contrast. They make it feel like a complete breakfast.
4. Warm it up. Reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. It brings back that fresh-baked texture.
5. Top with whipped cream. A dollop adds indulgence for dessert. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings.

The History Behind New England Coffee Cake

Coffee cake has deep roots in New England. It likely came from German immigrants who brought streusel-topped cakes. These evolved into the cinnamon-swirled versions we love today.

In Grandma’s time, coffee cake was a staple at community gatherings. It was affordable, easy to share, and paired well with coffee. Her recipe reflects that practical, heartfelt tradition.

The cinnamon swirl and streusel topping are classic touches. They add flavor and texture without being overly fussy. This balance is what makes it a New England favorite.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Grandma’s recipe isn’t just another coffee cake. It’s a balance of simplicity and indulgence. The sour cream keeps it moist, while the streusel adds crunch.

It’s also adaptable. You can tweak the spices or skip the nuts without losing its charm. It’s forgiving for new bakers yet impressive for guests.

The nostalgia factor is huge. Every bite feels like a memory of cozy mornings. It’s a recipe that connects generations.

Summary

Grandma’s New England coffee cake recipe is a treasure that brings warmth to any table. Its soft crumb, cinnamon swirl, and buttery streusel make it a versatile treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s perfect for bakers of all levels.

This cake is more than food—it’s a tradition that creates memories. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet slice with coffee, it delivers comfort and joy. Bake it, savor it, and pass it down to keep the love alive.

FAQ

Can I use a different pan size?
A 9×9-inch pan works best, but an 8×8-inch pan will do. Adjust baking time slightly, checking for doneness at 30-35 minutes.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, it stays fresh for 3 days at room temperature. Store in an airtight container or freeze for up to a month.

What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream. It provides similar moisture and tanginess.

Can I make this nut-free?
Absolutely, just omit the pecans or walnuts. The streusel will still be deliciously crunchy.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Microwave slices for 10-15 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes. This restores the fresh-baked texture.

Grandma’s New England Coffee Cake Recipe

Saima

Grandma’s New England coffee cake is a cozy, nostalgic treat with a tender crumb, cinnamon swirl, and buttery streusel topping. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, it’s easy to make with pantry staples. This recipe brings warmth and tradition to any gathering.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 9 Servings

Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls (small, medium, large)
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Cooling rack

Ingredients

  

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream

For the Cinnamon Swirl

• ⅓ cup brown sugar packed
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg optional, for warmth

For the Streusel Topping

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar packed
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional

Instructions

 

Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents the cake from sticking.

Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

• In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Set aside for layering later. This creates the cake’s signature swirl.

Make the Streusel Topping

• In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in melted butter until crumbly, then add nuts if desired. This topping adds crunch.

Mix Dry Ingredients

• Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This ensures even leavening. Set aside for the batter.

Cream Butter and Sugar

• In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Use a mixer for 2-3 minutes. This makes the cake tender.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

• Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Add vanilla extract and blend. This adds richness and flavor.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Add half the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, then half the sour cream. Repeat, mixing gently until just combined. Don’t overmix to keep the cake soft.

Layer the Batter and Swirl

• Spread half the batter in the prepared pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over it. Top with the remaining batter, spreading carefully.

Add Streusel and Bake

• Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown.

Cool and Serve

• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to a cooling rack or serve directly from the pan. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Ensure ingredients like butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter. Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake tender. Check for doneness at 35 minutes, as ovens vary, to avoid overbaking. Store leftovers properly to maintain freshness.

Keyword Grandma’s New England Coffee Cake, Grandma’s New England Coffee Cake Recipe