Classic Coffee Cake

Classic Coffee Cake

Ingredients:

For the cake:

- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder

- 1 tsp baking soda

- 1 tsp salt

- 1 cup granulated sugar

- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

- 2 large eggs

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

- 1/2 cup milk

For the streusel topping:

- 1/2 cup granulated sugar

- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the glaze (optional):

- 1 cup powdered sugar

- 2 tbsp milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Mix dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt).

3. Beat sugar and butter until light. Add eggs and vanilla.

4. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.

5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.

6. Make streusel topping: Mix sugar, flour, and butter until crumbly. Add walnuts (if using).

7. Sprinkle streusel topping evenly over batter.

8. Bake 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

9. If desired, mix glaze ingredients and drizzle over cooled coffee cake.

Tips and Variations:

- Use brown sugar instead of granulated for a richer flavor.

- Add cinnamon or nutmeg to streusel topping for extra spice.

- Substitute chopped pecans or hazelnuts for walnuts.

- Make muffins instead: Divide batter into 12 muffin cups.

Enjoy your delicious homemade coffee cake!