This Cinnamon Nutmeg Crumb Coffee Cake is perfect for cozy mornings or an afternoon treat. Its warm spices and buttery crumb topping make it an irresistible delight. Let's dive into the simple steps to bring this comforting cake to life.
All-purpose flour provides the structure for our cake and crumb topping. Granulated sugar sweetens the cake, while brown sugar adds a rich molasses flavor to the crumb topping. Unsalted butter, softened for the cake and melted for the topping, adds moisture and richness. Milk keeps the cake tender. The egg binds the ingredients together, and vanilla extract adds a subtle sweetness. Baking powder gives the cake its rise. A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors. Cinnamon and nutmeg are the stars, providing that cozy, spiced aroma and taste.
This cake pairs perfectly with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot tea. For a special touch, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s delightful as a brunch centerpiece or a cozy afternoon snack.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking pan. This ensures your cake won’t stick and will come out beautifully once baked. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Give it a good stir to make sure everything's evenly distributed.
Next, add the softened butter, milk, egg, and vanilla extract to your dry ingredients. Stir them together until just combined. You want to avoid overmixing here; this keeps the cake tender. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
For the crumb topping, mix the flour, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a separate bowl. Use a fork or your fingers to combine until crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cake batter. This crumb layer will bake up crisp and flavorful on top.
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps prevent it from getting soggy.