Ultimate Easy Almond Coffee Cake: A Moist & Flavorful Breakfast & Dessert Treat
There’s something incredibly comforting and satisfying about a slice of homemade coffee cake, especially when it’s infused with rich, sweet almond flavor. While a classic vanilla streusel coffee cake holds a special place in my heart, my profound love for almond (seriously, have you tried my soft almond cookies yet?) inspired me to create a delightful twist on this beloved classic. This recipe for **Almond Coffee Cake** is not just good; it’s one of the best coffee cakes I’ve ever tasted, featuring a light and fluffy cake base bursting with an amazing almond essence, perfectly complemented by a streusel topping studded with sliced almonds for an added crunch and nutty depth.
This delightful recipe is proudly sponsored by Lifeway Kefir. Their organic plain whole milk kefir is the secret ingredient that elevates this almond cake, making it incredibly fluffy, tender, and moist. Beyond its superb baking qualities, Lifeway Kefir is a powerhouse of healthy probiotics, protein, and calcium, and it’s also a fantastic option for those with lactose intolerance. Incorporating kefir not only enhances the texture and flavor of the cake but also adds a beneficial nutritional boost, making this indulgent treat a little healthier!
If you’re a fan of this cake and also enjoy the unique texture and flavor of poppy seeds, you’ll definitely want to try my almond poppy seed cake. It’s another fantastic recipe that works wonderfully as a versatile dessert or a delightful breakfast cake to kickstart your day.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Almond Coffee Cake Recipe
This almond coffee cake isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience waiting to happen. Here’s why it’s guaranteed to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen:
- **Simplicity at its Best:** You only need a few bowls and a single pan to create this easy almond coffee cake. The straightforward process means less mess and more enjoyment, making it a perfect baking project for any day of the week.
- **Baker-Friendly for All Levels:** Whether you’re a novice baker taking your first steps into the world of homemade treats or an experienced pro looking for a reliably delicious recipe, you’ll find this elegant almond coffee cake incredibly easy to whip up. The steps are clear, concise, and designed for success.
- **Quick & Efficient:** This almond-flavored cake comes together surprisingly fast, requiring less than an hour from start to finish. It’s ideal for those moments when you crave something sweet but are short on time.
- **Versatile Indulgence:** This perfect coffee cake is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it warm with your morning coffee for a luxurious breakfast, serve it alongside fresh fruit for an elegant brunch, grab a slice as an afternoon snack, or present it as a delightful dessert after any meal.
- **Textural Harmony:** Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures. The soft, tender cake base is beautifully complemented by a generous layer of crunchy almond crumb topping, providing an utterly satisfying contrast that makes this cake truly stand out.
- **A Seasonal Favorite:** It’s a simple yet delicious spin on a classic coffee cake that’s particularly wonderful for fall, much like my popular pumpkin spiced coffee cake. The warm almond and cinnamon notes evoke cozy autumnal feelings, but frankly, it’s a treat to be enjoyed year-round!
Key Ingredients for the Best Almond Coffee Cake
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect almond coffee cake. Here’s a closer look at what makes this recipe special:
- This almond sheet cake gets a glorious **double dose of almond flavor** from both high-quality **pure almond extract** and the delightful crunch of **sliced almonds** in the streusel. While it’s often recommended to toast nuts before using them in baked goods to enhance their flavor, in this specific recipe, you can conveniently skip this extra step. The sliced almonds will naturally toast to perfection as they bake on top of the cake batter within the delicious streusel topping, saving you time without compromising on flavor or texture.
- **Plain whole milk kefir** is a game-changer for this recipe. This fermented milk drink, readily available in the dairy section of most grocery stores, is key to creating an exceptionally super soft, moist, and tender cake. Its slight tanginess also adds a subtle depth of flavor that complements the almond beautifully. My personal go-to brand for its consistent quality and taste is Lifeway!
- **Vegetable oil** is another essential component, chosen for its ability to keep this luscious sweet cake incredibly moist and prevent it from drying out. Unlike butter, which can sometimes result in a denser crumb, vegetable oil contributes to a lighter, more airy texture while ensuring the cake remains delightfully tender for days.
For a complete list of all ingredients and precise measurements, please refer to the detailed recipe card located further down below.
Customizing Your Almond Coffee Cake: Substitutions & Variations
While this almond coffee cake recipe is perfect as is, it’s also incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with these thoughtful substitutions and variations to tailor it to your preferences or available ingredients:
- **Oil Alternatives:** If vegetable oil isn’t in your pantry, don’t worry! You can easily substitute it with any other neutral-flavored oil you have on hand, such as canola oil, sunflower oil, or even a light olive oil. The key is to choose an oil that won’t overpower the delicate almond flavor.
- **Kefir Replacements:** If you’re having trouble finding kefir at your local grocery store, **buttermilk** is an excellent and widely available substitute. It provides a similar acidity that reacts with the baking powder, contributing to the cake’s moist and tender crumb. You can also make a homemade buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.
- **Almond Texture Options:** Instead of crushing sliced almonds yourself, you can use **slivered almonds** for a slightly different texture in the streusel. They’ll still provide that wonderful crunch and nutty flavor. Alternatively, for a finer crumb, you can briefly pulse whole almonds in a food processor.
- **Added Sweetness with a Glaze:** For those who enjoy an extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish, consider drizzling a simple powdered sugar and milk icing over the top of the coffee cake once it has completely cooled. A basic glaze of 1 cup powdered sugar mixed with 1-2 tablespoons of milk and a tiny splash of almond extract would be heavenly.
- **Alternate Baking Pans:** If you don’t have a 9-inch round baking pan, this recipe is flexible enough to be made in an 8-inch square pan. Be aware that the baking time might vary slightly, so keep an eye on it and test for doneness with a toothpick.
Please note that this recipe has been thoroughly tested with the ingredients and methods outlined. If you decide to replace or add any ingredients beyond these suggestions, we’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your experiences in the comments below to help other bakers!
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Almond Coffee Cake
Creating this delightful almond coffee cake is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps for a perfect bake every time:
Step 1: Prepare the Almond Streusel. In a small bowl, melt the butter until completely liquid. Add all-purpose flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and the crushed sliced almonds. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until the mixture comes together and resembles coarse, wet sand. Set this irresistible streusel aside for topping the cake later.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients. In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the measured all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisking ensures these ingredients are evenly distributed, which is crucial for the cake’s rise and texture.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients. In a large bowl, thoroughly whisk together the vegetable oil and granulated sugar until well combined. Then, incorporate the room temperature eggs, almond extract (be careful not to overdo this concentrated flavor!), and vanilla extract. Finally, whisk in the kefir until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Using a spatula, gently fold them together until *just* combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough, dense cake. A few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 5: Assemble and Top. Pour the cake batter evenly into a parchment paper-lined 9-inch round cake pan. Ensure the bottom is covered with parchment paper for easy removal. Then, generously sprinkle the previously prepared cinnamon streusel mixture over the entire surface of the batter.
Step 6: Bake and Cool. Bake your beautiful almond coffee cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Baking time will typically be between 37-42 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the very center of the cake comes out clean, indicating it’s fully cooked. Once baked, transfer the pan to a wire rack and allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving. This ensures the cake sets properly and is easier to handle.
Expert Baking Tips for a Perfect Almond Coffee Cake
Achieving the perfect moist and flavorful almond coffee cake is easier with a few insider tips. Keep these in mind to ensure your cake turns out flawlessly every time:
- Tip #1: Avoid Over-mixing the Batter. To guarantee a tender, light crumb cake and prevent it from becoming dense or tough, only mix the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until they are *just* combined. Over-mixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, which can result in a gluey, rubbery texture. A few streaks of flour are better than an overmixed batter!
- Tip #2: Sift Dry Ingredients for Uniformity. If your all-purpose flour tends to form clumps, or if you simply want to ensure the lightest, fluffiest cake possible, consider sifting it together with the baking powder and salt before whisking. This breaks up any lumps and aerates the dry ingredients, leading to a smoother batter and a more uniform texture.
- Tip #3: Measure Almond Extract Precisely. Almond extract is an incredibly concentrated flavor agent. A little goes a long way, and too much can quickly overpower your cake, giving it a bitter or artificial taste. Always measure the exact amount specified in the recipe and resist the urge to add “just a little more.”
- Tip #4: Proper Cake Removal. Once your coffee cake has cooled completely (or at least to room temperature), removing it from the pan without damage is key. Place a large plate or serving platter over the top of the cake pan, then carefully flip the pan over so the cake rests upside down on the plate. Gently lift the pan. If using parchment paper on the bottom, peel it off. Then, place another plate or a wire rack over the bottom (which is now the top) and flip it again, so the streusel topping is facing up.
- Tip #5: Room Temperature Ingredients. Ensure your eggs and kefir are at room temperature before mixing. Room temperature ingredients emulsify more easily, creating a smoother, more uniform batter and a finer-textured cake.
- Tip #6: Don’t Rush the Cooling Process. It can be tempting to slice into a warm cake, but resist the urge! Letting the cake cool completely allows it to set properly, preventing it from crumbling and ensuring the streusel topping remains intact.
Recipe Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Got questions about this delicious almond coffee cake? We’ve got answers!
Despite its name, there is no actual coffee in this coffee cake recipe. The term “coffee cake” refers to a sweet cake or bread meant to be enjoyed alongside your morning cup of coffee or tea, rather than containing coffee as an ingredient itself. It’s the perfect companion for your favorite brew!
Yes, absolutely! While the crunchy almond streusel topping adds a fantastic textural contrast and an extra layer of almond flavor, you are welcome to omit the crumb topping if you prefer a simpler cake. The almond cake base is delicious on its own.
You certainly can! This almond coffee cake freezes beautifully. For best results, allow the cake to cool completely to room temperature before placing it in a freezer-safe, airtight container or wrapping individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or warm it gently in the microwave for a quicker treat.
A dry or dense cake is most often caused by over-measuring the flour or over-mixing the batter. Flour should always be measured accurately; for the most precise results, it’s highly recommended to use a food scale to weigh your dry ingredients in grams rather than relying on volume measurements (cups). Also, remember to mix the wet and dry ingredients only until *just* combined to avoid developing too much gluten, which leads to a tough texture.
Lifeway Kefir is widely available! You can find it at most major grocery stores in the dairy section, typically near other yogurts and milk products. You can also visit lifewaykefir.com to use their product locator tool and find a retailer near you.
How to Store Your Almond Coffee Cake
Proper storage ensures your delicious almond coffee cake stays fresh and enjoyable for as long as possible.
Room Temperature Storage
Once the almond coffee cake has completely cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will remain wonderfully fresh and moist for up to 1 week. Placing a paper towel at the bottom of the container can help absorb excess moisture and keep the streusel crispier.
Freezing Instructions
This coffee cake is excellent for freezing! To freeze, first ensure the cake is entirely cooled. For best results and portion control, we recommend slicing the cake into individual servings before freezing. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil. Transfer the wrapped slices (or the entire cake, if preferred, wrapped robustly) to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw individual slices at room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave or a low oven until heated through.
More Delicious Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this almond coffee cake, you’ll be thrilled with these other fantastic baking recipes from my collection, all designed to bring joy to your kitchen and your taste buds!
-
Almond Poppy Seed Muffins
-
Lemon Cupcakes with Strawberry Filling
-
Soft Almond Sugar Cookies
-
Orange Chocolate Cake with Ganache
Did you try this recipe?
Leave a ⭐️ review below and tag @brokenovenbaking & @lifewaykefir on Instagram!
📖 Recipe
Easy Almond Coffee Cake
Kayla Burton
Pin Recipe
Equipment
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9 inch round cake pan
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Mixing bowls
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Measuring spoons
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Scale/measuring cups
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Parchment paper
Ingredients
Cinnamon Almond Streusel
- 3 tablespoons (42 g) unsalted butter melted
- ½ cup (62.5 g) all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup (66 g) brown sugar packed
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds crushed into small pieces
Almond Cake
- 1¾ cups (218.75 g) all-purpose flour weighed in grams or spooned and leveled
- 2 teaspoons (8 g) baking powder
- ½ teaspoon (3 g) salt
- ½ cup (118.29 ml) vegetable oil
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1½ teaspoons almond extract
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup (177.44 ml) Lifeway Organic Plain Whole Milk Kefir room temperature
Instructions
Cinnamon Almond Streusel
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In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, packed brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Pour in the melted unsalted butter and mix well until the mixture resembles wet sand. Finally, stir in the crushed sliced almonds. Set this streusel mixture aside.
Almond Cake
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch round baking pan by greasing it with nonstick cooking spray, then placing a round of parchment paper on the bottom for easy release.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the measured all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil and granulated sugar until thoroughly blended. Then, stir in the room temperature eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Finish by whisking in the room temperature Lifeway Organic Plain Whole Milk Kefir until the wet ingredients are smooth.
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Add the dry ingredient mixture to the large bowl with the wet ingredients. Gently fold them together using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are acceptable. Pour the prepared batter into your lined and greased cake pan and spread it evenly. Generously sprinkle the cinnamon almond streusel mixture over the top of the batter.
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Bake the cake on the middle rack of your preheated oven for approximately 37-42 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the very center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack until it’s cool enough to handle. Carefully invert it out of the pan, remove the parchment paper, and place it right-side up to cool completely.
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Notes
Storage: To maintain freshness, store the cooled almond coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, it can be transferred to a freezer-safe container and stored for up to 3 months. We highly recommend slicing it up before freezing for convenient portioning.
Nutrition: The provided nutrition information is an estimate calculated per serving. Please note that the calorie accuracy is not guaranteed and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation.
The provided nutritional information is an estimate per serving. Accuracy is not guaranteed.