Dessert

Cinnamon Crumble Coffee Cake Recipe

BySophie Carsel March 3, 2026March 3, 2026

Introduction

Cinnamon Crumble Coffee Cake is a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Its tender crumb and sweet cinnamon topping create a comforting combination that pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee.

A close-up view of a square piece of crumb cake with two visible layers, the bottom layer is light beige and soft with a slightly crumbly texture, while the top layer is a thick, crumbly streusel topping with a mix of light brown and darker brown shades, giving a crunchy look. The cake sits on a white plate over a white marbled surface, with some crumbs scattered around and a blurry background showing more pieces of the same cake. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

¾ cup melted butter (1½ sticks)
1½ cups all-purpose flour (for crumble)
¾ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ cup butter (softened)
1 cup white sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
⅔ cup sour cream
1 cup all-purpose flour (for cake batter)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for cake batter)
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C).
Step 2: Make the cinnamon crumble by combining the melted butter, 1½ cups flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium bowl. Stir with a fork until crumbly.
Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and white sugar with a hand mixer or wooden spoon until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Fold in the sour cream.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture, stirring until just moistened.
Step 5: Grease an 8-inch square baking dish. Spread half of the cake batter evenly in the dish. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon crumble over the batter. Spread the remaining batter on top, then sprinkle with the rest of the crumble.
Step 6: Bake for 42-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Let the cake cool for 5 minutes before cutting into 16 squares. Serve warm with coffee or your favorite beverage.

Tips & Variations

For extra texture, add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the crumble mixture.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier flavor.
If you prefer a less sweet coffee cake, reduce the sugar in the crumble by ¼ cup.

Storage

Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat individual pieces in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a fresh-baked feel.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a coffee cake square with two visible layers and a crumbly top layer. The bottom layer is light beige and soft in texture, while the top layer is a mix of light brown crumbs and darker brown swirls, indicating cinnamon or spice. The crumb layer appears rough and crumbly, with small pieces falling off onto the white plate below. The cake has an uneven surface, highlighting its homemade and soft quality. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this coffee cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for best results.

Can I prepare the crumble and batter ahead of time?

You can prepare the crumble and batter the day before and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake just before serving for best texture and flavor.