Drake’s Coffee Cake: a nostalgic treat that’s hard to resist! Craving that sweet, cinnamon-y goodness but can’t find it in stores, or maybe you just want a fresher, homemade version? Look no further! This ultimate guide unlocks all the secrets of Drake’s Coffee Cake.
We’ll dive into the fascinating Drake’s coffee cake history of this iconic Drake’s snack cake, share a perfected Drake’s coffee cake recipe, and offer delicious variations like the classic cinnamon streusel coffee cake and more.
We’ll even cover baking tips for a moist, crumbly masterpiece worthy of McKee Foods coffee cake. Get ready to indulge in the sweet, cinnamon-y goodness of homemade Drake’s coffee cake – it’s easier than you think!
How to Make Drake’s Coffee Cake
- Gather ingredients
- Mix batter
- Make crumb topping
- Sprinkle and swirl
- Bake and enjoy!
Table of contents
- Introduction & Drake’s Coffee Cake Phenomenon
- The Ultimate Drake’s Coffee Cake Recipe
- Crumb Topping Variations for Every Taste
- Your Cheat Sheet for Drake’s Coffee Cake Perfection
- Beyond the Classic: Drake’s Coffee Cake Inspired Recipes
- Conclusion & Call to Action
- Drake’s Coffee Cake FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
Introduction & Drake’s Coffee Cake Phenomenon
Do you remember those mornings, the aroma of cinnamon and coffee wafting through the air? Perhaps it was a Drake’s Coffee Cake, a soft, sweet, streusel-topped treat that made every day feel like a celebration.
But have you ever wondered where this iconic cake came from? Or better yet, have you ever baked one from scratch? It’s not just about the delightful flavors – it’s about the memories, the shared moments, the pure nostalgia.
What sets Drake’s Coffee Cake apart from other cakes is not just its signature cinnamon streusel topping, but also its moist and tender crumb, making it the perfect companion to a hot cup of coffee or tea.
The science behind the magic lies in the combination of simple ingredients and baking techniques.
I have a confession to make: My grandmother’s Coffee Cake recipe was legendary. It was the centerpiece of every family gathering, the treat we all craved. Today, I’m sharing that very recipe with you, hoping it will spark joy and togetherness in your own kitchen.
If you’re curious about other delectable coffee cake variations, Serious Eats’ Coffee Cake Recipes can be your go-to resource for endless inspiration.
Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and embark on a culinary adventure to recreate this classic treat. Along the way, I’ll share tips and tricks to ensure your Drake’s Coffee Cake is nothing short of extraordinary.
Share your baking journey with me! Leave a comment below, tag me on social media with your #Drake’sCoffeeCake creations, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your fellow coffee cake enthusiasts.
The Ultimate Drake’s Coffee Cake Recipe
Ready to recreate the magic of a Drake’s coffee cake in your own kitchen? It’s easier than you might think! This recipe takes the classic crumb cake to the next level, with a few secret tips I’ve picked up over the years.
Ingredients:
- Cake Batter:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (for a lighter crumb, try cake flour!)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (room temperature is key!)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup sour cream (the secret to that signature tang and moisture)
- Crumb Topping:
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes (for that irresistible streusel)
A quick tip: If you’re a coffee enthusiast like me, add a pinch of finely ground coffee to the crumb topping for an extra depth of flavor.
Want to understand the science behind creating a perfect crumb? See out King Arthur Baking Company’s Guide to Coffee Cakes. Now, let’s get mixing!
Instructions:
- Preheat and prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Whisk the dry: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream the wet: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer (or good old-fashioned elbow grease!), cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Combine it all: With the mixer on low speed (or a gentle hand), alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Don’t overmix – a few lumps are okay!
- Crumb time: To make the crumb topping, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a separate bowl. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Feel free to get creative here – Serious Eats’ Coffee Cake Recipes is a great resource for inspiration!
- Layer it up: Spread the cake batter evenly in the prepared pan. Crumble the topping generously over the batter.
- Bake and enjoy: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool slightly before serving.
Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite:
Growing up, my grandma always baked this Drake’s coffee cake for special occasions. The smell of cinnamon and warm vanilla would fill the house, creating a sense of comfort and togetherness.
To this day, every bite brings back those cherished memories. I’ve tweaked her recipe over the years, but the heart of it remains the same. It’s a simple, yet incredibly satisfying treat that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 4g
Crumb Topping Variations for Every Taste
Let’s be honest, folks – the crumb topping is the crowning glory of any Drake’s coffee cake. It’s that perfect blend of buttery, sweet, and crunchy that makes each bite unforgettable.
So, why settle for just one flavor when you can explore a whole world of possibilities?
Classic Cinnamon Streusel: You can’t go wrong with the original. It’s a timeless combination of cinnamon, sugar, and butter that complements the tender cake perfectly.
Brown Sugar Pecan: Craving something a little nutty? This variation elevates the classic with brown sugar’s caramel notes and the satisfying crunch of pecans.
Pro Tip: Toasting the pecans beforehand intensifies their flavor and adds another layer of complexity. Feel free to get creative with your nut choices!
Spiced Apple Crumb: Perfect for fall, this crumble is a symphony of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, balanced by the sweetness of apples. It’s like apple pie met Drake’s Coffee Cake, and they fell in love.
Chocolate Chip Crumb: Who says Drake’s coffee cake can’t be decadent? This option is a chocolate lover’s dream, with pockets of melty chocolate chips throughout the buttery crumb.
Your Own Creation: The beauty of baking is that it’s a playground for your imagination. Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try adding dried fruit, different spices, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-and-salty twist.
Share Your Creations! We want to see your Drake’s coffee cake masterpieces! Tag us on social media or leave a comment below with your favorite crumb topping combinations. Let’s create a community of coffee cake connoisseurs!
Check out some of the most delish recipes:
Gluten-Free Coffee Cake: A Baking Triumph
Blueberry Sour Cream Coffee Cake Recipe
Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs: The Ultimate Guide
Your Cheat Sheet for Drake’s Coffee Cake Perfection
Baking is a science, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun! With a few simple tips, your homemade Drake’s Coffee Cake will rival the original.
First things first: have you ever pulled a stick of butter straight from the fridge and tried to cream it with sugar? Frustrating, right?
Here’s the trick: use room temperature ingredients. This applies to eggs, sour cream, and especially butter. Softened butter blends seamlessly with sugar, creating a light and airy texture that makes your Drake’s Coffee Cake irresistible.
Second, less is more! Overmixing the batter is a rookie mistake. It develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a dense, heavy cake. Mix just until combined, and your Drake’s Coffee Cake will be tender and moist.
Now, the moment of truth: baking time and temperature. Every oven is different, so start checking for doneness a few minutes early. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
And don’t forget to rotate the pan halfway through for even baking. For the science behind the perfect coffee cake.
Finally, the icing on the (coffee) cake: storage and serving. To keep your Drake’s Coffee Cake fresh for days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Want to get ahead of the game? Coffee cake freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and you’ll have a delicious treat ready to go. For creative ways to use up leftovers, are full of inspiration.
But wait, there’s more!
For the health-conscious bakers out there, consider using whole wheat pastry flour for added fiber, or swap some of the sugar for applesauce or mashed banana.
And don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and flavorings to create your own signature Drake’s Coffee Cake.
I remember my grandmother baking Drake’s Coffee Cake every Sunday morning. The aroma would fill the house, and we’d gather around the kitchen table, eager to devour a warm slice. It was a simple joy, and one that I still cherish today.
I hope this recipe brings you the same happiness it brought my family.
Beyond the Classic: Drake’s Coffee Cake Inspired Recipes
Ever find yourself with leftover Drake’s Coffee Cake? Don’t let those crumbs go to waste! Repurpose them into something spectacular.
First up: Drake’s Coffee Cake Muffins! These grab-and-go treats are perfect for busy mornings. Simply crumble leftover cake, mix it into your favorite muffin batter, and bake. For an extra burst of flavor, swirl in some cinnamon streusel.
You can find inspiration for countless muffin variations on Serious Eats’ Coffee Cake Recipes.
Next, we have Drake’s Coffee Cake Pancakes! This recipe is a weekend brunch game-changer. The cake crumbs add a unique texture and sweetness to the pancakes.
Top them with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of maple syrup for pure indulgence. To make sure your pancakes are light and fluffy, check out The Kitchn’s Tips for Baking with Sour Cream, a key ingredient in many coffee cake recipes.
But wait, there’s more!
Ever tried Drake’s Coffee Cake Bread Pudding? This comforting dessert is a family favorite in my home. We layer cubes of stale coffee cake with custard, dried fruit, and nuts, then bake it to golden perfection.
It’s warm, gooey, and oh-so-satisfying, especially on a chilly evening. Plus, it’s a clever way to use up any leftover cake.
Pro Tip: For a lighter option, try using whole-wheat flour or a sugar substitute in these recipes. Remember, it’s all about enjoying the flavors of Drake’s Coffee Cake in new and exciting ways.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Is Drake’s Coffee Cake the best coffee cake? Well, that’s up to you to decide! We invite you to bake a batch and tell us what you think. After all, the proof of the pudding – or in this case, the coffee cake – is in the tasting.
Moreover, Drake’s Coffee Cake isn’t just a recipe; it’s a trip down memory lane for many. Did you know? Growing up, my grandma always had a Drake’s Coffee Cake on the table. It was the smell of Sunday mornings and family gatherings.
So, grab the recipe and learn the science behind perfect coffee cakes at King Arthur Baking Company.
Still hungry for more sweet treats? Get inspired by a variety of coffee cake recipes from Serious Eats to discover your new favorite twist. Not to mention, for those health-conscious bakers, feel free to swap ingredients to reduce sugar or fat.
Remember, baking is all about having fun and making it your own.
Now, it’s your turn! Bake up a storm, share your photos, and let’s celebrate the joy of Drake’s Coffee Cake together. We can’t wait to see your crumb-tastic creations!
Drake’s Coffee Cake FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
Yes, Drake’s Coffee Cakes are still produced and can be found in many stores.
Drake’s Cakes faced a brief production halt in 2012 but was acquired by McKee Foods and continues production today.
Drake’s began producing coffee cakes in 1930, quickly becoming a beloved classic known for its cinnamon streusel topping
Coffee cakes are traditionally served with coffee, hence the name. They don’t always contain coffee as an ingredient.
Coffee cakes date back to 17th century Europe, with variations emerging in different countries over time.
Yes, coffee cake is a popular type of cake often enjoyed for breakfast or snacks.
Drake’s Coffee Cake: The Ultimate Guide.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: (approximately 12 servings)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Drake’s Coffee Cake is a nostalgic treat with a sweet, cinnamon-y goodness that’s hard to resist. This guide provides a perfected recipe for a homemade version, complete with tips for variations like classic cinnamon streusel coffee cake and more.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (for a lighter crumb, try cake flour!)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (room temperature is key!)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup sour cream (the secret to that signature tang and moisture)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour (for crumb topping)
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes (for that irresistible streusel)
- Optional: A pinch of finely ground coffee for extra depth of flavor
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Combine Ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Don’t overmix.
- Prepare the Crumb Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Layer the Cake: Spread the cake batter evenly in the prepared pan. Crumble the topping generously over the batter.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For added depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of finely ground coffee to the crumb topping.
- Variations for the crumb topping can include additions like pecans, spiced apples, or chocolate chips.
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh for days.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Drake’s Coffee Cake, Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake, Homemade Coffee Cake, Nostalgic Treat, Sweet Cinnamon Cake, Moist Coffee Cake, Coffee Cake Variations, Baking Tips, Family Recipe, Crumb Topping