Soft Ricotta Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Sugar Swirl and Crumb Topping

why make this recipe

Soft Ricotta Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Sugar Swirl and Crumb Topping is a delightful treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. This cake is moist thanks to the ricotta, and the cinnamon sugar swirl gives it a warm and inviting flavor. With the added crumb topping, it becomes a perfect balance of texture and taste. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a simple yet satisfying indulgence.

how to make Soft Ricotta Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Sugar Swirl and Crumb Topping

Ingredients :

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for crumb topping)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crumb topping)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for crumb topping)
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (for crumb topping)

Directions :

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the ricotta cheese and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  6. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon for the swirl. Set aside.
  7. Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter.
  8. Add the remaining batter on top and swirl the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture into the top layer using a knife or skewer to create a marbled effect.
  9. For the crumb topping, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, melted butter, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl until crumbly. Sprinkle it evenly over the top of the cake.
  10. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  11. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

how to serve Soft Ricotta Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Sugar Swirl and Crumb Topping

This cake is best served warm or at room temperature. Cut it into slices and enjoy it plain, or add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of icing for extra sweetness. Pair it with coffee or tea for a lovely afternoon break.

how to store Soft Ricotta Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Sugar Swirl and Crumb Topping

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer.

tips to make Soft Ricotta Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Sugar Swirl and Crumb Topping

  • Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Don’t overmix the batter; mixing until just combined will keep the cake light and fluffy.
  • For a richer flavor, try using whole milk instead of skim.
  • Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for a fun twist.

variation

You can customize this recipe by adding fruits like blueberries or apples to the batter for added flavor and moisture. Alternatively, try different spices, like nutmeg, for a unique taste.

FAQs

Q: Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
A: While cottage cheese can be used, it will change the texture and flavor of the cake slightly. Ricotta gives a creamier consistency.

Q: How do I know when the cake is done?
A: The cake is done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the cake a day in advance. It also tastes great the next day, as the flavors have more time to develop.

Print
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soft ricotta coffee cake with cinnamon sugar swirl 2025 11 08 201423 150x150 1

Soft Ricotta Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Sugar Swirl and Crumb Topping


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  • Author: Maggie Hart
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A moist and delightful coffee cake perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack, featuring a cinnamon sugar swirl and crumb topping.


Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for crumb topping)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crumb topping)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for crumb topping)
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (for crumb topping)


Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the ricotta cheese and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  6. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon for the swirl. Set aside.
  7. Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter.
  8. Add the remaining batter on top and swirl the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture into the top layer using a knife or skewer to create a marbled effect.
  9. For the crumb topping, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, melted butter, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl until crumbly. Sprinkle it evenly over the top of the cake.
  10. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  11. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Best served warm or at room temperature; pair with coffee or tea. Can add whipped cream or icing for extra sweetness.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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