Are you looking to bring some sunshine to your morning routine with a delightful treat? Look no further than our recipe for Lemon Cream Cheese Coffee Cake! This recipe combines the zesty freshness of lemon with the rich creaminess of cream cheese, all nestled in a tender, buttery cake. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, this coffee cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Title: Lemon Cream Cheese Coffee Cake
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 4 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and softened butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Set aside 3/4 cup of this crumb mixture for the topping.
4. To the remaining crumbs in the bowl, add the baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth.
6. Add the sour cream mixture to the dry ingredients in the large mixing bowl and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
7. Spread the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until creamy. Add the lemon juice and powdered sugar, and mix until smooth.
9. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in the pan.
10. Use a knife to gently swirl the cream cheese mixture into the batter.
11. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the top of the cake.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
13. Allow the coffee cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
This Lemon Cream Cheese Coffee Cake is a delightful way to elevate your breakfast or brunch table. The vibrant lemon flavor combined with the richness of cream cheese creates a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Enjoy a warm slice with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself to a special treat, this coffee cake is sure to please. Experiment with different citrus zests for a unique twist, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who appreciate a homemade touch in their baked goods.
