Sometimes simple is just what the doctor ordered. And sometimes cake is just what the doctor ordered.
And because we all know that we should be careful about mixing prescriptions, you should keep this simple cake recipe on hand for just those occasions. Believe me, I love a good thick streusel topping and I love cakes that say “Look at me!” But sometimes I just need to mindlessly throw together a cake that will get itself into the oven, and fast.
Also, sometimes we need a cake that can function as a breakfast or brunch offering without too much explanation (chocolate cake requires a lot of justification before noon), or a midday snack, but also can hold up as a dessert offering.
You may also have some holiday houseguests, and you may need a few make ahead things to have on hand when people would like “just a little something sweet.” This is that something, homemade and lovely perched on your counter for guests to help themselves to a sliver of. Or two.
SOUR CREAM CINNAMON COFFEE CAKE
Start to finish: 1 hour (10 minutes active)
Servings: 10
For the cake:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature, plus extra for the pan
2 cups all purpose-flour, plus extra for the pan
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
For the glaze:
2/3 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Nutrition information per serving: 400 calories; 210 calories from fat (53 percent of total calories); 24 g fat (15 g saturated; 0.5 g trans fats); 110 mg cholesterol; 270 mg sodium; 43 g carbohydrate; 1 g fiber; 23 g sugar; 5 g protein.
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