Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Walnut Swirl
This sour cream coffee cake with cinnamon walnut swirl is a moist, flavorful treat perfect for any occasion. The rich batter, spiced swirl, and tender crumb make it a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple to prepare with everyday ingredients, ideal for breakfast or a cozy snack.
Equipment
- 9-inch round or square baking pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Small Mixing Bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Rubber Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Toothpick or skewer
Ingredients
For the Cake Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Cinnamon Walnut Swirl
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/3 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- For the Topping Optional
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Walnut Swirl
- In a small bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until everything is evenly mixed. Set this aside for later.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents. Keep it handy for the next step.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer. Mix until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This creates a tender cake base.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The mixture should look smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Incorporate Sour Cream and Dry Ingredients
- Add half the sour cream to the butter mixture and mix well. Then add half the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Repeat with the remaining sour cream and dry ingredients.
Step 6: Layer the Batter and Swirl
- Spread half the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon walnut mixture over the top. Spoon the remaining batter over the swirl and spread it gently.
Step 7: Create the Swirl Effect
- Using a butter boil, gently swirl a knife or skewer through the batter. This mixes the cinnamon walnut layer into the cake. Don’t overdo it—just a few swirls will do.
Step 8: Add the Topping and Bake
- Mix the optional sugar and cinnamon topping in a small bowl. Sprinkle it evenly over the batter. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.