Coffeecake

Coffeecake is a type of cake that is typically served with coffee. It is not made with coffee, but its name is derived from the tradition of eating it while drinking coffee. Coffeecakes are often sweet, rich cakes, sometimes with a crumb topping or a glaze drizzled over the top.

History

The tradition of eating sweet cakes with coffee dates back to the 17th century in Europe, when coffee was first introduced. The concept of a "coffeecake" as a specific type of cake, however, is largely an American invention. The term "coffeecake" first appeared in print in the United States in the late 19th century.

Types of Coffeecake

There are many different types of coffeecake, which can vary greatly depending on the region and the baker's personal preferences. Some common types include:

• Crumb cake: This type of coffeecake has a thick layer of crumb topping, made from butter, sugar, and flour.
• Streusel cake: A German-style coffeecake, streusel cake has a layer of sweet, crumbly topping made from butter, sugar, and flour.
• Sour cream coffeecake: This type of coffeecake is made with sour cream, which gives it a rich, tangy flavor.
• Cinnamon coffeecake: This type of coffeecake is flavored with cinnamon, and often has a cinnamon swirl in the middle.

Preparation

Coffeecake is typically made by creaming together butter and sugar, then adding eggs and flavorings. The dry ingredients, including flour, baking powder, and salt, are then added. Some recipes also include sour cream or yogurt for added moisture and tang. The batter is spread into a baking pan, and any toppings, such as a crumb topping or a glaze, are added before baking.

Serving

Coffeecake is typically served at room temperature, and can be enjoyed at any time of day. It is often served at breakfast or brunch, but can also be enjoyed as a dessert or a snack. It pairs well with coffee, as its name suggests, but can also be enjoyed with tea or milk.

See Also

• Cake
• Coffee
• Breakfast
• Dessert