Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning or a sweet delight to brighten up your afternoon, let me introduce you to the irresistible Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe. This cake is a delightful symphony of tender, buttery crumb, luscious cream cheese filling, and bursts of fresh raspberry goodness. Each bite balances fluffy cake, tangy cream cheese, and sweet, juicy berries, all topped with a cinnamon crumb that adds the perfect hint of crunch. Whether you’re sharing it with friends over coffee or sneaking a slice just for yourself, this coffee cake quickly becomes the star of any table and a beloved classic in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe calls for straightforward, everyday ingredients that come together to create a masterpiece. Each element plays a crucial role, from the richness of butter and cream cheese to the fresh brightness of raspberries that add a juicy pop of flavor and beautiful color.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation providing structure and tenderness.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Adds lightness and balances acidity.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps with browning.
• 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients and contribute to the cake’s tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Boosts the overall flavor with warm notes.
• 1 cup sour cream: Keeps the cake moist and adds a slight tanginess.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates a creamy, dreamy filling.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for cream cheese layer): Sweetens the filling perfectly.
• 1 large egg (for cream cheese layer): Provides smoothness and stability.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cream cheese layer): Infuses the filling with subtle flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups fresh raspberries (or frozen, thawed and drained): The star fruit offering juicy bursts and vibrant color.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (to toss raspberries): Gently sweetens the berries while releasing their juices.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for crumble topping): Gives the streusel topping its rustic texture.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crumble): Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the topping.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for crumble): Holds the crumble together and adds richness.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Introduces warm spice to the crumble topping.

How to Make Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan to ensure your coffee cake has a perfect release after baking. This small prep step helps prevent sticking and keeps your cake looking beautiful.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This combination sets the stage for the tender crumb and helps the cake rise evenly during baking.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy — this usually takes a few minutes. Adding eggs one at a time while beating well after each helps create an airy texture. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for a touch of warmth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with 1 cup sour cream. This gentle back-and-forth mixing ensures the batter stays light and tender without overworking the flour.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 egg, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This luscious filling contrasts beautifully with the cake’s crumb and raspberry tang.

Step 6: Toss the Raspberries

Gently toss 1 1/2 cups fresh raspberries with 1/4 cup sugar in a small bowl, allowing the berries to release their natural juices and sweeten slightly — this keeps them juicy and flavorful inside the cake.

Step 7: Layer the Batter, Cream Cheese, and Raspberries

Spread half of the cake batter evenly in your prepared pan. Carefully layer the cream cheese mixture on top, followed by the sugared raspberries. Finally, spread the remaining cake batter over the top, creating a beautiful tri-layered effect ready for the crumble topping.

Step 8: Make and Add the Crumble Topping

Combine 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 cup sugar, softened butter, and cinnamon in a bowl. Mix until the topping is crumbly and sprinkle it evenly over the cake batter for a delicious crunch and a hint of spice.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake your coffee cake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This baking time yields a moist cake with perfectly cooked raspberry pockets and a golden crumb topping.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. While you can enjoy this coffee cake warm or at room temperature, the flavors tend to meld and improve as it cools.

How to Serve Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh raspberries or a dusting of powdered sugar provide a lovely, simple finishing touch to this cake. A few mint leaves added on top can introduce a pop of vibrant green and a fresh twist that complements the fruitiness.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a hot cup of your favorite coffee or a soothing tea, which balances the sweetness and highlights the cream cheese and berry flavors. For a brunch spread, pair the cake with fresh fruit salad or a creamy yogurt parfait for a colorful and satisfying contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing your coffee cake into individual squares and serving them on pretty dessert plates with a drizzle of raspberry sauce or a dollop of whipped cream. For a stunning brunch centerpiece, layer pieces of the cake on a tiered stand with fresh berries scattered on each level — it’s both eye-catching and delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover coffee cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, keeping it refrigerated will extend its life for up to five days, preserving the cream cheese layer’s texture and flavor.

Freezing

This Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to three months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

To enjoy the cake warm again, reheat slices in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes. This brings back the soft crumb and revives the cream cheese and raspberry flavors beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture from making the cake soggy.

Is it necessary to use sour cream in the batter?

Sour cream adds moisture and a slight tang that brightens the flavor, but you could substitute with Greek yogurt if needed.

Can I make this coffee cake vegan or dairy-free?

While this recipe relies on cream cheese and butter, vegan substitutes like dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based butter can be experimented with, though texture might vary.

How do I prevent the raspberries from sinking?

Tossing the raspberries in sugar helps slightly, but also layering gently as described prevents them from sinking to the bottom during baking.

Can I double this recipe for a larger cake?

Yes, just adjust your baking time and use a larger pan or two pans to ensure even cooking and beautiful layers.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe enough if you’re looking to bring joy to your baking routine. It combines simple ingredients with a flair that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to dig in. Trust me, once you try it, the luscious cream cheese layer and fresh raspberries will make this cake your new go-to for gatherings, cozy mornings, or anytime you want a sweet little slice of happiness.

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