Description
Ever catch a whiff of cinnamon and get instantly transported back to your childhood in Los Angeles? That warm, comforting aroma likely came from a slice of the legendary LAUSD coffee cake, a staple of Los Angeles school cafeterias for generations. This beloved treat holds a special place in the hearts of countless Angelenos, evoking memories of simpler times and shared moments.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 ½ cups Baker’s Flour (All-Purpose works too!)
- 1 cup packed Brown Sugar
- ½ cup + 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Nutmeg
- ¾ cup Salad Oil (Canola or Vegetable Oil are great substitutes)
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
- 1 Egg
- 1 cup Buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 9″x13″ pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the first six ingredients (flour through oil) and mix until crumbly.
- Reserve ½ cup of this mixture for the topping, adding the cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining ingredients (buttermilk through egg).
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle with the reserved topping.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Notes
- Healthier Version: Use less sugar or substitute whole-wheat flour for added nutrients.
- Flavor Variations: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit for a different twist.
- Vegan/Dairy-Free Options: Substitute buttermilk with a vegan buttermilk substitute and the egg with a flaxseed “egg” or applesauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: LAUSD Coffee Cake, school cafeteria recipe, nostalgic dessert, cinnamon coffee cake, 1954 recipe, Los Angeles tradition, crumb topping, moist coffee cake, childhood memories, family favorite
