Cherry Cheese Coffee Cake

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Mix the Cake Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling

1. Make the Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Coffee Cake

1. Layer the Cake: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Add Cheese Filling: Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the batter, spreading it gently to cover the surface.
3. Add Cherry Filling: Pour the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
4. Top with Remaining Batter: Pour the remaining cake batter over the cherry filling. Don’t worry if it doesn’t cover it completely; some cherries can peek through.

Step 4: Prepare the Crumb Topping

1. Mix the Crumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until crumbly.
2. Add Crumb Topping: Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the cake batter.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

1. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Cool: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice and Serve: Cut the cake into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. This coffee cake is delicious on its own or drizzled with a bit of icing.

Tips for the Best Cherry Cheese Coffee Cake

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the best rise in the cake.
• Experiment with Fruit: While cherry pie filling is classic, feel free to try other fruit fillings, such as blueberry, raspberry, or even peach.
• Cream Cheese Temperature: Ensure your cream cheese is softened at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Make Ahead: This coffee cake can be made a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature, and it will still taste delicious the next day.

What to Serve with Cherry Cheese Coffee Cake

• Coffee or Tea: This coffee cake pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea, making for a delightful morning treat.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and creamy contrast to the rich cake.
• Ice Cream: For a dessert option, serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

Cherry Cheese Coffee Cake is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s perfect for any occasion. Its easy preparation and impressive presentation make it a go-to recipe for brunches, family gatherings, or a simple afternoon snack. With its rich cherry and creamy cheese layers, this cake will surely become a favorite in your household. Try this recipe today and enjoy every delicious bite!