Yeast Coffee Cake: The Perfect Breakfast Treat

As a baking enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for new recipes to try in my kitchen. Recently, I stumbled upon a recipe for yeast coffee cake and I was intrigued. I had never made this type of cake before, but the combination of yeast and coffee sounded promising. After trying it out, I can now say that this cake is an absolute treat!

What is yeast coffee cake?

Yeast coffee cake is a traditional pastry that originates from Scandinavian countries. The cake is made with a yeasted dough that is enriched with butter and flavored with coffee. Once the dough has risen, it is typically filled with a sweet mixture of cinnamon sugar and raisins. The cake is then baked until golden brown and finished with a powdered sugar glaze.

Why is it so special?

What makes yeast coffee cake so special is the combination of flavors and textures. The yeasted dough is soft and fluffy, and the addition of butter makes it rich and indulgent. The coffee flavor is not overpowering, but it adds a subtle bitterness that balances out the sweetness of the cake. The cinnamon sugar filling and raisins add a comforting spiciness, while the glaze gives the cake a decadent finish.

How to make yeast coffee cake

Making yeast coffee cake requires a bit of time and effort, but the end result is well worth it. Here is a simple recipe you can try at home:

Ingredients

  • For the dough:
  • 2 and 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup warm water
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup brewed coffee, room temperature
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • For the filling:

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 1/2 cup raisins

  • For the glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine the yeast, warm water, and 1 teaspoon of the granulated sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.

  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, milk, coffee, egg, and melted butter. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.

  3. Add the flour and salt to the bowl and stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise for 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size.

  5. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter.

  6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangular shape. Spread the cinnamon sugar mixture over the dough and sprinkle with raisins.

  7. Roll the dough tightly into a log and transfer it to a greased baking dish. Let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes.

  8. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the cake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.

  9. While the cake is baking, make the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.

  10. Once the cake is done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before drizzling the glaze over the top.

  11. Serve the yeast coffee cake warm, either plain or with a dollop of whipped cream.

Conclusion

Yeast coffee cake is a delicious and comforting pastry that is perfect for lazy weekend mornings or special occasions. While it requires some time and effort to make, the end result is well worth it. Give this recipe a try and treat yourself to a slice of warm coffee-scented heaven!