Chocolate Chunk Coffee Cake: The Ultimate Recipe & Baking Tips

Chocolate Chunk Coffee Cake: just the name conjures images of cozy mornings, steaming mugs, and that irresistible aroma wafting through the kitchen, doesn’t it? I’m thrilled to share my take on this classic treat, a recipe that’s guaranteed to become a weekend staple in your home.

Coffee cake, in its various forms, has been a beloved part of breakfast and brunch traditions for generations. While its exact origins are debated, many believe it evolved from European sweet breads, adapted and perfected over time in American kitchens. The addition of chocolate chunks elevates this already delightful cake to a whole new level of indulgence.

What makes Chocolate Chunk Coffee Cake so universally appealing? It’s the perfect balance of textures: a tender, moist crumb, punctuated by pockets of melted chocolate and a delightful streusel topping that adds a satisfying crunch. The subtle coffee flavor enhances the sweetness without overpowering it, creating a harmonious blend that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof and promises a delicious reward. Get ready to experience the joy of baking and sharing this incredible cake with your loved ones!

Ingredients:

• For the Coffee Cake:
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chunks (or chopped chocolate)
• For the Streusel Topping:
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 6 tablespoons (¾ stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• For the Coffee Glaze (Optional):
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons strong brewed coffee
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparing the Streusel Topping:

Okay, let’s start with the streusel! This is the crumbly, sweet topping that makes this coffee cake so irresistible. It’s super easy to make and can even be prepared a day ahead if you’re short on time.

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the ½ cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup packed light brown sugar, ¼ cup granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.
2. Add the 6 tablespoons (¾ stick) of cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces. This is important – the butter needs to be cold so it creates those lovely crumbs.
3. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You want to see small clumps of butter throughout. Don’t overmix!
4. If you’re using nuts, stir in the ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. I personally love the added crunch and nutty flavor, but it’s totally optional.
5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the streusel topping until ready to use. This helps the butter stay cold and prevents it from melting into the cake batter.

Making the Coffee Cake Batter:

Now for the main event – the coffee cake batter! This is where the magic happens. We’re aiming for a moist, tender cake with a rich coffee flavor and plenty of chocolate chunks.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. You can also use baking spray with flour if you prefer. This will ensure the cake doesn’t stick to the pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the 1 cup (2 sticks) of softened unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. The mixture should be pale and airy.
4. Beat in the 2 large eggs one at a time, then stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
5. In a small bowl, combine the 1 cup of sour cream and 1 cup of cooled strong brewed coffee. This mixture adds moisture and richness to the cake.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream and coffee mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake. I usually add the dry ingredients in three additions and the wet ingredients in two.
7. Gently fold in the 1 ½ cups of semi-sweet chocolate chunks (or chopped chocolate). Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Assembling and Baking the Coffee Cake:

Almost there! Now it’s time to put everything together and get this coffee cake into the oven.

1. Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13 inch baking pan and spread it evenly.
2. Crumble the chilled streusel topping evenly over the batter. Don’t be shy – the more streusel, the better!
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched.
4. Let the coffee cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting and serving. This allows the cake to set and makes it easier to slice.

Making the Coffee Glaze (Optional):

If you want to add an extra touch of sweetness and coffee flavor, this glaze is the perfect finishing touch. It’s quick, easy, and adds a beautiful sheen to the cake.

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons of strong brewed coffee, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Add more coffee, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The glaze should be pourable but not too thin.
2. Once the coffee cake has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top. You can also let the cake cool completely before glazing if you prefer.

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few extra tips and ideas to customize your chocolate chunk coffee cake:

• Use different types of chocolate: Experiment with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chunks.
• Add spices to the cake batter: A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom can add warmth and complexity to the flavor.
• Substitute the sour cream: If you don’t have sour cream, you can use plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk instead.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Add a layer of cream cheese filling: Before adding the streusel topping, spread a layer of cream cheese filling (made with cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract) over the batter.
• Store the coffee cake: Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing instructions: You can freeze the baked coffee cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Coffee strength: The stronger the coffee you use, the more pronounced the coffee flavor will be in the cake. I recommend using a dark roast for the best results.
• Don’t overbake: Overbaking will result in a dry cake. Check the cake for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Chocolate Chunk Coffee Cake!

Conclusion:

This Chocolate Chunk Coffee Cake isn’t just another recipe; it’s an invitation to create a moment of pure, unadulterated joy. From the first whiff of warm, buttery goodness baking in your oven to the last lingering taste of rich chocolate and coffee, this cake promises an experience that’s both comforting and utterly decadent. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone who appreciates the simple pleasures in life. Why is it a must-try? Because it’s more than just a cake; it’s a hug in dessert form. The moist, tender crumb, studded with generous chunks of melting chocolate, is perfectly balanced by the subtle coffee notes that enhance, rather than overpower, the overall flavor. It’s the kind of cake that makes you want to slow down, savor each bite, and share it with the people you love. It’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next brunch, a comforting treat to enjoy with your afternoon coffee, or a delightful dessert to end a special meal, this Chocolate Chunk Coffee Cake fits the bill perfectly. But the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make! The recipe is straightforward and uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. No fancy techniques or complicated steps required. Just simple, honest baking that yields extraordinary results. Looking for serving suggestions? A warm slice of this cake is divine on its own, but you can also elevate it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a truly indulgent experience, drizzle it with a little melted chocolate or caramel sauce. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the sweetness and bring out the chocolate’s rich flavor. Here are a few variations to consider: * Nutty Delight: Add a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. * Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm, comforting spice. * Citrus Zest: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the batter for a bright, refreshing twist. * Berry Bliss: Fold in a cup of fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries) for a burst of fruity flavor. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of this Chocolate Chunk Coffee Cake for yourself. I have poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I am confident that you will love it as much as I do. So, go ahead, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake something truly special. And when you do, please share your experience with me! I would love to hear about your baking adventures, see your beautiful creations, and learn about any variations you try. Tag me in your photos on social media, leave a comment below, or send me an email. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy baking!

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