Vanilla Bean Coffee Cake

Name: Vanilla Bean Coffee Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup brewed strong coffee, cooled; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

I love starting my mornings with a slice of Vanilla Bean Coffee Cake. The rich aroma of vanilla and coffee fills my kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This cake is not just a treat for breakfast; it's perfect for any time of the day and pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee. What truly sets this recipe apart is the use of real vanilla beans, which elevate the flavor and provide little specks of goodness throughout. Each bite is moist, tender, and bursting with flavor, making it an irresistible delight.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:21:28.027Z

As I perfected this Vanilla Bean Coffee Cake, I experimented with different baked goods to find the right balance of sweetness and flavor. The vanilla beans are the star here, and I found that by adding a hint of coffee, the flavor deepens beautifully. I've served this cake at brunch gatherings, and it's always a hit!

One of the tips I’d offer is to ensure that you don’t overmix the batter. This keeps the cake light and fluffy. Additionally, a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top before baking gives a delightful crunch with each bite. It’s those little touches that make a big difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich vanilla flavor with a hint of coffee
Moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any coffee break

Understanding Key Ingredients

The use of real vanilla beans is essential in this Vanilla Bean Coffee Cake. Not only do they impart a strong, aromatic flavor, but they also provide a delightful visual element with their tiny specks visible throughout the cake. If you don’t have vanilla beans on hand, you can substitute with high-quality vanilla extract, but the flavor intensity will differ. Aim for a tablespoon of extract to mimic the richness of vanilla beans, keeping in mind that fresh is always better for aroma.

Sour cream is another crucial ingredient; it contributes moisture and a slight tanginess that balances the sweetness of the cake. If you need a substitute, consider using Greek yogurt, but be aware that it may slightly alter the cake's texture. The fat content in sour cream also helps create that tender crumb that makes this coffee cake irresistible. Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to encourage proper emulsification.

Baking Techniques for Success

When preparing the batter, remember the importance of creaming the butter and sugar until it's light and fluffy, usually about 3-5 minutes. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cake volume and a fluffy texture. If you skip this step or don’t beat long enough, you risk a denser cake. A stand mixer works well here, but a sturdy hand mixer can also do the job effectively. Just keep an eye on the texture—it should be pale and glossy.

Incorporating the dry and wet ingredients needs to be handled carefully to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined, ensuring there are some small flour streaks visible before you stop. This allows the flour to fully hydrate during baking without developing too much gluten. If you want added crunch, consider choosing a nut like toasted pecans or almonds for the topping, and be sure to toast them lightly to enhance their flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Vanilla Bean Coffee Cake:

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup brewed strong coffee, cooled
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients, you're all set to make a delicious Vanilla Bean Coffee Cake!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your cake:

Prepare the Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, then incorporate the sour cream, coffee, and vanilla extract. Mix the dry ingredients separately, then gradually add them to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Add Vanilla and Bake

Scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean into the batter, folding them in gently. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. In a small bowl, combine the topping ingredients and sprinkle them evenly over the batter. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve it warm or at room temperature with a fresh pot of coffee.

Enjoy your freshly baked Vanilla Bean Coffee Cake!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or dried fruit to the batter. Storing leftovers in an airtight container will help retain moisture and flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're preparing for a special brunch, you can make this Vanilla Bean Coffee Cake a day ahead. After baking, let the cake cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator. This not only preserves the cake but allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving for the best flavor and texture.

To store leftovers, you can cut the cake into slices and place them in an airtight container. If you want to keep it fresh longer, consider freezing the slices. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag, where it can last up to three months. When you want to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

This Vanilla Bean Coffee Cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate your dessert experience, especially when served warm. You might even drizzle a simple vanilla glaze on top for added sweetness and a striking presentation. Just mix powdered sugar with milk until you reach your desired consistency and drizzle it artistically over the cooled cake.

For a more tailored experience, consider serving the cake alongside seasonal fruits, such as sliced strawberries, raspberries, or citrus sections. The acidity of the fruits complements the rich flavors of the cake beautifully. Additionally, don’t hesitate to experiment with flavored coffee or herbal teas to find your perfect pairing—something lightly spiced or floral can create a delightful afternoon treat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla beans?

Yes, you can use 1 tablespoon of high-quality vanilla extract in place of the vanilla beans.

→ Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.