Are you ready to bake something truly delightful? This Cherry Almond Coffee Cake is not just easy to make; it’s also a treat for your taste buds! With a perfect blend of fresh cherries, crunchy almonds, and rich flavors, it’s ideal for breakfast or dessert. I’ll guide you step-by-step through the process, sharing tips and tricks to make it shine. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of cherries and almond extract creates a delightful flavor profile that is both sweet and nutty, making every bite a treat.
- Moist and Tender Texture: The use of sour cream in the batter ensures that the coffee cake stays moist and tender, resulting in a cake that is soft and irresistible.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: This coffee cake is versatile enough to serve at breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert, making it a great addition to any gathering.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is beginner-friendly and perfect for anyone looking to impress without too much effort.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Cherry Almond Coffee Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
The main ingredients give the cake its structure and taste. All-purpose flour forms the base, while unsalted butter adds richness. Eggs bind the ingredients together and ensure a fluffy texture.
Flavor Enhancers
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
Flavor enhancers make this cake stand out. Vanilla extract brings warmth, while almond extract adds a nutty twist. Brown sugar adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor that you’ll love.
Toppings and Mix-Ins
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- Powdered sugar (for garnish)
Toppings and mix-ins elevate the coffee cake. Cherries add a burst of sweetness and color. Slivered almonds provide a delightful crunch. Dusting with powdered sugar gives the cake a pretty finish. Enjoy this treat with your favorite coffee!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the oven and prepare the baking pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This makes removing the cake easier.
2. Mix dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Make sure these ingredients mix well. Set this bowl aside for later.
Mixing the Batter
1. Creaming the butter and sugars
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of brown sugar. Mix on medium speed until the batter looks light and fluffy, which takes about 2-3 minutes.
2. Incorporating eggs and extracts
Add 4 large eggs to the butter mixture, one at a time. Beat well after each egg. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. These flavors will add a nice touch to your cake.
Final Steps
1. Combining wet and dry ingredients
Gradually lower the mixer speed. Add the dry flour mix and 1 cup of sour cream to the butter mixture. Start and end with the flour mix. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can change the cake's texture.
2. Folding in cherries and almonds
Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups of halved cherries and half of the 1/2 cup of slivered almonds. Make sure these tasty bits are evenly spread throughout the batter. Then, pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula and sprinkle the remaining slivered almonds on top for added crunch.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips for Perfect Texture
- Avoiding overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense. Aim for a light, fluffy texture. You want air in your batter, so be gentle when folding in the cherries and nuts.
- Checking for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. The top should be golden brown. Trust your eyes and nose; a golden top means flavor!
Cooling and Serving Tips
- How long to cool before serving: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. After that, move it to a wire rack. It needs to cool completely before you slice it. This helps the cake set, making it easier to cut.
- Presentation suggestions: Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar. Add fresh cherries on top for a pop of color. This makes your coffee cake look fancy and inviting. Serve it warm for a cozy treat!
Flavor Enhancements
- Adding spices or additional extracts: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. A touch of lemon zest can brighten the flavors. Explore your spice rack for fun ideas!
- Recommendations for serving pairings: Enjoy your coffee cake with a cup of coffee or tea. It also pairs well with vanilla ice cream. For a twist, try it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of almonds.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature to create a smooth batter and achieve a light, fluffy texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to prevent the cake from becoming dense and tough.
- Enhance Flavor with Extracts: Using both vanilla and almond extracts adds depth to the cake's flavor, making it more aromatic and delicious.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready to be taken out of the oven.
Variations
Seasonal Variations
You can change this coffee cake with different fruits. Blueberries and peaches work well. Each fruit gives a fresh taste. You can also add spices to make it seasonal. Try cinnamon for fall or nutmeg for winter. These spices can boost the flavor and warmth of your cake.
Dietary Variations
If you need gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend. This swap keeps the cake light and tasty. For dairy-free substitutions, replace sour cream with coconut yogurt or almond yogurt. Both options keep your cake moist and flavorful.
Alternative Toppings
Switch up the toppings for a new taste. Try walnuts or pecans instead of slivered almonds. Each nut adds a unique crunch. You can also drizzle a simple glaze on top. Combine powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finish. A glaze makes the cake look fancy and adds extra sweetness.
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Your Coffee Cake
To keep your coffee cake fresh, store it at room temperature. Use an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and prevents it from drying out. If your kitchen is warm or humid, refrigeration is a good option. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. This helps it stay fresh for longer.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your coffee cake, let it cool completely first. Then, wrap it well in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped cake in a freezer bag or container. This prevents freezer burn. For best taste, use it within three months.
When you're ready to enjoy it, take it out of the freezer. Leave it in the fridge overnight to thaw. For a quicker method, you can thaw it at room temperature for a few hours.
Shelf Life
At room temperature, your coffee cake lasts about three days. If you store it in the fridge, it can last up to a week. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.
FAQs
What can I use instead of sour cream?
You can use yogurt or buttermilk. Both options add creaminess and tang. If you use yogurt, choose plain and unsweetened. Greek yogurt works well too. Buttermilk gives a nice flavor and keeps the cake moist.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this coffee cake ahead of time. Bake it a day before you plan to serve it. Let it cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap. Store it at room temperature. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
How do I know when my coffee cake is done baking?
To check if your coffee cake is done, look for a golden-brown top. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. The edges will pull away slightly from the pan. The cake should feel firm, not jiggly.
In this post, we explored how to make Cherry Almond Coffee Cake, covering key ingredients, steps, and tips. We learned about mixing the batter, perfecting texture, and presenting your cake well. Remember, you can customize this recipe with seasonal fruits or dietary swaps. Whether you serve it fresh or save it for later, this cake delights everyone. Enjoy baking and sharing your delicious creation!
