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Coffee Cake Cheesecake Recipe

Ingredients

The Base

  • 2 cups (210g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick / 115g) unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)

The Cinnamon Swirl

  • 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder (see notes)

The Streusel Topping

  • 3/4 cup (90g) all-purpose flour (spoon and leveled)
  • 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)

The Filling

  • 4 (8oz) blocks cream cheese (32oz / 900g total, at room temperature)
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream (at room temperature)
  • 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour (spoon and leveled)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 4 large eggs (at room temperature)

The Icing

  • 1/2 cup (70g) powdered sugar
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions on the next page πŸ‘‡πŸ‘‡

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325Β°F (163Β°C), preparing yourself for the tremendous transformation of simple ingredients into a show-stopping dessert.

  2. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crust ingredients until they are well combined. This simple mixture should feel slightly moist but hold together when pressed. Pack it into the bottom and about halfway up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Ensure you choose a pan with sides that are at least 2 inches high, as this cheesecake is indeed tall!

  3. Bake the cheesecake crust in the center of your oven for about 8 minutes. While it may not look different, this step is crucial for maintaining that super crisp texture.

  4. Remove the crust from the oven and set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the rest of the cheesecake components.

  5. In a small bowl, mix together all the ingredients for the cinnamon swirl and set it aside. The mix of brown sugar, cinnamon, and cocoa will add a warming, sweet note to your cheesecake.

  6. In a medium bowl, combine the ingredients for the streusel topping. Use your fingers to mix and mash until you have a well-moistened, crumbly mixture. Set this aside as well.

  7. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sugar. Using an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat these together for about 1 to 2 minutes on medium speed until the sugar is fully dissolved, and the mixture is smooth. If you prefer, you can do this by hand with a wooden spoon, though it might require a little more elbow grease!

  8. Next, add the sour cream, flour, salt, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until everything is just combined, avoiding over-mixing.

  9. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing just until each egg is fully integrated into the batter before adding the next. This step is pivotal for creating a smooth and delightful cheesecake texture.

  10. Pour about half of your cheesecake filling over the slightly cooled crust. Spread it into an even layer before sprinkling the cinnamon swirl filling uniformly on top.

  11. Carefully drizzle the remaining cheesecake filling on top, using dollops to preserve the cinnamon sugar layer underneath. Gently spread it into an even layer, then run a skewer through the batter to create a seamless swirl, being careful not to disturb the crust.

  12. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the cheesecake, adding that crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the creaminess beneath.

  13. To create a steam effect while baking, fill a large pan with 2 cups of boiling water and place it on the bottom rack of your preheated oven. Now, place your cheesecake on the center rack, right above the water-filled pan.

  14. Bake your cheesecake for 70 minutes in the preheated oven. After this initial baking time, remove the pan of water but continue baking for another 20 to 30 minutes. Look for a slightly puffed up top, while the streusel should be perfectly browned and crisp. The edges should be firm, but the center can still jiggle if you gently shake the pan.

  15. Leave the cheesecake in the oven and let it cool for 2 hours with the oven door slightly ajar. The gradual cooling will help it deflate slightly, ensuring a smoother finish.

  16. After about 30 minutes of cooling, run a thin knife around the edges to prevent sticking.

  17. Once it has cooled completely to room temperature, chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight, allowing it to set fully.

  18. To prepare the icing, whisk together powdered sugar with 1 tablespoon of milk in a medium bowl. If it appears too firm, add a bit more milk until you achieve the desired consistency.

  19. Finally, take the cooled cheesecake out of the pan and drizzle the icing generously over the top before slicing and serving!

Continue reading on the next page πŸ‘‡πŸ‘‡

Pro Tips for Success

Use Room Temperature Ingredients

For the best results, ensure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature. This will help you achieve a smoother batter without lumps, leading to that tremendously creamy texture we all love.

Don’t Overmix the Batter

Mixing your batter just until incorporated helps to avoid incorporating too much air. Overmixing can lead to cracks in your cheesecake as it bakes, dampening your tremendous outcome.

Bake with Steam

Using a water-filled pan while baking keeps the cheesecake moist and helps it bake evenly. This tremendous tip can prevent cracking and enhance the texture, allowing for a perfectly smooth finish.

Storage and Freshness

Properly Cover and Chill

Once cooled, cover your cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to ensure it doesn’t absorb any other odors from the refrigerator. Cheesecake tastes best when it’s nicely chilled!

Keep it in the Fridge

For short-term storage, keep your cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to one week. Always slice with a clean knife for the best presentation.

Freeze for Longer Storage

If you want to enjoy your cheesecake later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze it. It can last for up to three months. Allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

Indulging in a slice of Coffee Cake Cheesecake is more than just a treat; it’s a heartfelt experience connecting us to moments filled with joy and comfort. The tremendous textures, delightful flavors, and stunning aesthetics make it a perfect dessert for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to special celebrations. As you savor each bite, you might wonder, what memories does this delectable dessert evoke for you?

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