Christmas is just around the corner, and that means cozy mornings filled with sweet treats and delicious smells wafting from the kitchen. I created this post because the holiday season always has me craving something warm and delightful to enjoy with my morning coffee. If you’re someone who loves to whip up festive dishes that bring a smile to your loved ones’ faces, this one’s for you.
In this article, I’ve gathered 16 amazing Christmas coffee cake ideas that are perfect for your holiday brunch. These recipes are not only mouthwatering and comforting, but they also bring that festive spirit right into your home. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or simply want to treat yourself on a chilly winter morning, you’ll find options that suit every taste and occasion.
So, get ready to indulge in these warm, sweet morning treats that will make your holiday celebrations even more special. Each idea is designed to inspire your seasonal baking and add a sprinkle of joy to your brunch table. Let’s dive into these delightful coffee cake variations that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 16 festive coffee cake recipes that are both delicious and perfect for Christmas brunch gatherings. – These recipes range from classic flavors like cinnamon to unique combinations like chocolate peppermint, ensuring there’s something for everyone. – Each coffee cake is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making your holiday mornings less stressful. – The cakes pair beautifully with coffee or tea, adding a sweet touch to your breakfast table. – Enjoy the seasonal baking ideas that will not only please your taste buds but also brighten up your holiday spirit.1. Classic Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Craving something sweet and comforting for your Christmas brunch? A classic cinnamon coffee cake is just what you need! This cake is a warm hug for your taste buds, featuring a delightful swirl of cinnamon sugar that beckons you to indulge.
Not only is it a treat for the senses with its crispy crumb topping, but it also pairs perfectly with your favorite hot beverage. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up this holiday staple in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla.
4. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with sour cream until just combined.
6. Pour half the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon mixture, then top with the remaining batter.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let it cool before slicing and serving.
FAQs:
– Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! It can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.
2. Festive Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake
Looking to add some zest to your Christmas brunch? This festive cranberry orange coffee cake is the perfect choice! The tartness of fresh cranberries beautifully complements the sweet and citrusy flavor of orange, creating a refreshing bite that brightens any holiday table.
Not only does it look stunning with its vibrant hues, but it’s also simple to make. A drizzle of glaze on top finishes it off, making this cake a true showstopper at your gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/3 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup fresh cranberries
– Zest of one orange
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the egg and mix well.
3. Stir in flour, baking powder, baking soda, and milk until just combined.
4. Fold in cranberries and orange zest gently.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 25-30 minutes.
6. Allow to cool before removing from the pan.
7. Drizzle with an orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice.
FAQs:
– Can I use other fruits? Yes! Blueberries or raspberries also work well in this recipe.
📹 Related Video: How to make a cranberry orange coffee cake, and plus a little chitchat
3. Chocolate Peppermint Coffee Cake
Are you ready to indulge in a holiday treat that combines chocolate and peppermint? This decadent chocolate peppermint coffee cake is a must-have for your festive gatherings! With its rich, moist texture and a hint of peppermint, this cake is both a delight and a treat that will impress your guests.
Topped with crushed peppermint candies or a drizzle of chocolate ganache, it adds a festive flair that makes it a standout dessert at any brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Crushed peppermint candies for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
3. Stir in cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, baking soda, milk, and peppermint extract until well combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-40 minutes.
5. Allow to cool, then glaze with melted chocolate if desired and top with crushed peppermint.
FAQs:
– Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, it keeps well for up to three days in an airtight container.
Hosting Christmas brunch? This Christmas coffee cake with chocolate peppermint is effortless—rich, moist, and studded with peppermint crunch. Bake it once, and watch guests smile and linger, because festive flavors deserve center stage on every table.
How To Choose The Right Christmas Coffee Cake
Choosing the perfect Christmas coffee cake can make your holiday brunch unforgettable. With so many variations and flavors, it helps to narrow down your options based on specific criteria. Here’s how to find the best one for your festive gathering. 1. Flavor Profile Consider what flavors you and your guests enjoy. Do you prefer classic flavors like cinnamon and nutmeg, or more adventurous ones like peppermint or gingerbread? A good rule of thumb is to offer a mix of flavors to cater to different tastes. Think about seasonal favorites, as well. For example, flavors like cranberry-orange or eggnog can elevate your holiday brunch experience.2. Dietary Restrictions Before choosing a coffee cake, check for any dietary restrictions among your guests. Some might be gluten-free, vegan, or allergic to nuts. There are plenty of recipes available that accommodate these needs. You can find gluten-free coffee cakes made with almond flour or vegan options that replace eggs with applesauce. Choosing a cake that everyone can enjoy will ensure a happier gathering.
3. Serving Size How many people are you serving? This is crucial when picking a coffee cake. A standard coffee cake typically serves 8-10 people. If you’re hosting a larger gathering, consider making multiple cakes or choosing one that can be easily doubled. You can also look for mini coffee cakes that are perfect for smaller servings and add variety to your spread.
4. Preparation Time Some coffee cakes take longer to make than others. If you’re short on time, opt for a simpler recipe that can be prepped quickly. Many recipes allow for using pre-made ingredients, like cake mixes, which can save you hours in the kitchen. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could choose a recipe that requires more time but offers a unique flavor combination that will wow your guests.
5. Presentation Christmas coffee cakes can be a centerpiece for your brunch table. Consider how the cake looks when it’s served. Cakes topped with fresh fruit, icing, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar look festive and inviting. You can even use seasonal decorations, like holly or candy canes, to make it more visually appealing. Remember, we eat with our eyes first!
6. Coffee Pairing Think about what type of coffee you’ll be serving and how it pairs with your chosen cake. A rich chocolate cake goes well with a darker roast, while a citrus-flavored cake may be better suited for a lighter brew. This can enhance the overall experience of your brunch, making it more memorable for everyone.
Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Mix and match flavors or even add a glaze or topping that complements your coffee cake. This small touch can make a big difference in the overall taste. Enjoy the process, and remember that the best part of baking is sharing it with loved ones.
By using these criteria, you can confidently choose the perfect Christmas coffee cake that will delight your guests and add warmth to your holiday brunch. Happy baking!
4. Gingerbread Coffee Cake
Want to capture the essence of the holidays in a single bite? This spiced gingerbread coffee cake is just what you need! Infused with warm flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, it’s the perfect treat to get your home smelling like Christmas.
The rich molasses flavor adds depth and sweetness, while a cream cheese frosting or whipped cream on top takes it to the next level. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves traditional gingerbread flavors!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ginger
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until smooth. Add the egg and molasses, mixing well.
3. In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Gradually combine the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
6. Let it cool and top it with cream cheese frosting or whipped cream.
FAQs:
– Can I freeze this coffee cake? Yes, wrap it well and freeze for up to a month.
5. Maple Pecan Coffee Cake
Craving something that embodies the flavors of the season? This maple pecan coffee cake is a delightful way to start your holiday mornings! The nutty taste of pecans paired with the sweet, warm notes of maple syrup creates a treat that’s both comforting and delicious.
With a wonderful crunch from the pecans and a sweet maple glaze on top, it’s irresistible and perfect with a hot cup of coffee or cozy cocoa!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add the egg and maple syrup, mixing well.
3. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined. Fold in chopped pecans.
5. Pour the batter into the pan and bake for about 35-40 minutes.
6. Let cool and drizzle with a maple syrup glaze before serving.
FAQs:
– How should I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
6. Apple Streusel Coffee Cake
Nothing warms the soul quite like a warm apple streusel coffee cake, especially during the festive season. The sweet, tender apples combined with a crunchy streusel topping create a delicious breakfast treat that will make your mouth water.
This cake beautifully balances flavors and textures, with cinnamon-spiced apples nestled within a moist cake. Serve it warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup diced apples
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– For the streusel topping:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add the eggs and mix well.
3. Stir in flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
4. Fold in diced apples gently.
5. In a separate bowl, combine streusel ingredients and mix until crumbly.
6. Pour half the batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle with streusel, then top with remaining batter and more streusel.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
FAQs:
– Can I freeze this coffee cake? Yes, it freezes well—just wrap it tightly!
7. Eggnog Coffee Cake
Get into the holiday spirit with a rich and creamy eggnog coffee cake! This delightful treat incorporates the beloved flavors of eggnog in a moist cake that’s perfect for festive gatherings.
The subtle hint of nutmeg and vanilla will evoke cozy holiday memories, making it an exciting twist on traditional coffee cakes. Top it off with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of eggnog glaze for that extra festive touch!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Mix in eggs one at a time, then add eggnog and vanilla.
3. In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until well combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving. Drizzle it with an eggnog glaze if desired.
FAQs:
– Can I use homemade eggnog? Absolutely! It adds a personal touch to the flavor.
8. Raspberry Almond Coffee Cake
Brighten your holiday brunch with a delightful raspberry almond coffee cake! This cake marries the tartness of fresh raspberries with the nutty flavor of almond extract, creating a vibrant, flavorful treat.
The burst of berries in every bite, combined with a tender cake, offers a refreshing option amidst the heavy holiday desserts. Finished with a crumbly almond streusel, it’s a delightful pairing with coffee or a light dessert after your festive feast!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and almond extract, mixing well.
3. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in another bowl.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined; gently fold in raspberries.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and top with sliced almonds.
6. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
FAQs:
– How should I store leftovers? Keep covered in the fridge for up to three days.
9. Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake
Embrace the flavors of fall with a rich pumpkin spice coffee cake perfect for your Christmas brunch! This cake is wonderfully moist, infused with aromatic spices, and features a luscious cream cheese swirl.
The warm pumpkin flavors paired with sweet spices create a cozy dessert that invites everyone to reach for seconds. Finished with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, it’s a delightful way to celebrate the season!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and pumpkin, mixing well.
3. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes.
6. Let it cool before serving, dusting with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
FAQs:
– Is this a good make-ahead option? Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to a week.
10. Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake
Add a bright note to your Christmas table with a zesty lemon blueberry coffee cake! The tartness of fresh blueberries combined with lemon zest creates a refreshing burst of flavor perfect for holiday mornings.
This cake is moist, fluffy, and topped with a lemon glaze that elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness. Ideal for those who prefer a lighter dessert after a hearty holiday meal, it’s sure to impress with its lovely flavor!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
3. Stir in milk and lemon zest until combined.
4. In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
7. Allow to cool before glazing with a lemon glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice.
FAQs:
– How long does this cake last? It’s best enjoyed within three days, stored in an airtight container.
11. Brown Sugar Peach Coffee Cake
Turn your holiday brunch into a peachy paradise with a rich brown sugar peach coffee cake! The sweet and juicy peaches combined with brown sugar create a delightful flavor profile that makes this cake a summer favorite during the holiday season.
Moist and tender, this cake is perfect for those who love the sweetness of fruit in their desserts. A crumbly topping adds a lovely texture that everyone will enjoy, especially when served warm with vanilla ice cream!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup chopped fresh peaches
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and mix well.
3. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in another bowl.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, until well combined. Fold in peaches.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle with additional brown sugar.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
FAQs:
– Can this cake be frozen? Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to a month.
Brown sugar peach coffee cake is a holiday brunch MVP—juicy peaches meet a crumbly topping, and serving it warm with vanilla ice cream feels like a cozy celebration in every bite. Bake it, slice, and share the smiles.
12. Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake
Satisfy your chocolate cravings with a delectable chocolate chip coffee cake that’s perfect for the holiday season! This cake combines the moistness of a classic coffee cake with the irresistible taste of chocolate chips, making it a favorite among both kids and adults.
The richness of the chocolate beautifully contrasts with the lightness of the cake, creating a delightful treat everyone will love. Serve it warm with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra sweet touch!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup chocolate chips
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and mix well.
3. Stir in flour, baking powder, baking soda, milk, and vanilla until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips gently.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
5. Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar or drizzling with chocolate sauce.
FAQs:
– Can I use dark chocolate chips? Absolutely! Dark chocolate adds a rich flavor to the cake.
13. Coconut Cream Coffee Cake
Bring a tropical twist to your Christmas brunch with a delicious coconut cream coffee cake! This cake is moist and packed with coconut goodness, making it a unique addition to your holiday spread.
With coconut cream added for flavor and moisture, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Topped with a light coconut frosting, it’s a delightful treat that brings a touch of sunshine to the winter season!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add coconut cream and mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until smooth; fold in shredded coconut.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
6. Let it cool before topping it with coconut frosting.
FAQs:
– Can I substitute fresh coconut for shredded? Yes, fresh coconut enhances the flavor even more!
14. Chai Spice Coffee Cake
Warm your heart and home with a chai spice coffee cake! This delightful cake is infused with aromatic spices typical of chai tea, offering a unique flavor experience that’s perfect for the holiday season.
With hints of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, this cake is as cozy as it sounds. Finished with a simple glaze, it’s a comforting treat that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee on those chilly mornings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon chai spice blend (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs and milk, mixing well.
3. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and chai spices.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes.
6. Allow to cool before glazing with a simple icing.
FAQs:
– Can I make this using gluten-free flour? Yes, it works well with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
15. Strawberry Shortcake Coffee Cake
Enjoy a twist on tradition with a delightful strawberry shortcake coffee cake! This cake layers fresh strawberries within a moist cake base, creating a bright and fruity flavor that’s perfect for holiday brunches.
It’s a fantastic way to showcase seasonal fruits and offers a lovely contrast to heavier holiday desserts. Finished with fresh whipped cream and sliced strawberries, it’s an eye-catching and delicious treat everyone will adore!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, mixing well, and stir in vanilla.
3. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; gently fold in strawberries.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
6. Allow cooling, then top with whipped cream and more strawberries.
FAQs:
– How should I store leftovers? Keep in the fridge covered for up to three days.
Fun fact: 1 cup of fresh strawberries tucked into strawberry shortcake coffee cake adds about 3 g fiber and a burst of natural sweetness. That bright, fruity layer keeps brunch light on sugar while still feeling indulgent.
16. Honey Nut Coffee Cake
End your list of delightful coffee cakes with a sweet and crunchy honey nut coffee cake! The combination of honey and assorted nuts creates a delightful flavor profile that’s warm and inviting.
This cake is moist and tender, with a crunchy topping that’s sure to please anyone at your holiday brunch. Drizzle it with a bit of honey for a beautiful finish, and watch it disappear from your table in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped mixed nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and honey, mixing well.
3. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well combined. Fold in chopped nuts.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
6. Drizzle with additional honey before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I substitute maple syrup for honey? Yes, it will bring a different flavor but equally delicious!
Conclusion
From classic flavors to innovative twists, these 16 Christmas coffee cake ideas are sure to add warmth and sweetness to your holiday brunch. Each cake offers a unique flavor profile that caters to various tastes, ensuring there’s something for everyone at the table. Whether you choose a traditional cinnamon cake or a decadent chocolate peppermint option, these recipes will surely bring joy to your festive celebrations. Don’t forget to share your favorite creations and make sweet memories with loved ones this holiday season!
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What exactly is a Christmas coffee cake and how is it different from regular coffee cake?
Answer: Christmas coffee cake is the festive cousin of a regular coffee cake. It keeps the tender crumb but leans into holiday flavors like cinnamon, orange zest, cranberries, and pecans to fit Christmas brunch. The main differences are the fillings and toppings—think a jam or cream cheese swirl plus a generous streusel topping. For a crowd, you can bake a big sheet cake or several mini loaves and serve with coffee or mulled cider as part of festive breakfast recipes.
Question: How can I adapt these coffee cake ideas for gluten-free or dairy-free guests while keeping the Christmas flavors?
Answer: You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with a touch of xanthan gum for structure.
Swap butter for a dairy-free option like coconut oil or a light olive oil and use a dairy-free cream cheese swirl for the filling. Use dairy-free yogurt or coconut yogurt to keep the crumb moist. These holiday desserts and coffee cake variations can still deliver classic Christmas flavors like cinnamon, cranberries, and orange in a gluten-free or dairy-free version.
Question: What are the best make-ahead tips for serving Christmas brunch with these coffee cakes?
Answer: Make the batter or topping ahead of time. You can mix the dry and wet ingredients separately and refrigerate overnight, then combine in the morning. Or assemble the crumble and swirl components and refrigerate, baking fresh when guests arrive. You can freeze unbaked portions or fully baked cakes for later. Reheat baked slices in a warm oven for 8-12 minutes. These are perfect Christmas brunch treats.
Question: Which toppings or add-ins work best to make these coffee cakes feel festive?
Answer: Try a brown-sugar cinnamon streusel with citrus zest for brightness. Add dried cranberries, chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts), and a optional white chocolate or crushed candy cane drizzle for a wintery touch. Swirl in orange marmalade or cranberry jam for a fruity surprise. These ideas align with seasonal baking ideas and holiday desserts that shine on Christmas brunch tables.
Question: How do I pick the right recipe variation and bake it to a moist, tender crumb for Christmas brunch?
Answer: Start with the base texture you want—tender crumb or extra crumb topping—and choose fillings that match your crowd. Bake at 350°F (175°C) in a 9×13 or 8×8 pan, and test with a toothpick until a few crumbs cling to it. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep it light, and use moisture-boosters like sour cream, yogurt, or yogurt substitutes for that moist, cake-like crumb. Explore different coffee cake variations to fit seasonal baking ideas and create crowd-pleasing Christmas brunch treats.
