Is there anything more comforting than the aroma of freshly baked bread mingling with the rich scent of cinnamon and warm spices? If your answer is a resounding "no," then bread machine coffee cake is the ultimate treat for you. Not only does it blend the convenience of a bread machine with the decadence of a coffee cake, but it also promises a hassle-free baking experience for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. In this guide, we'll explore 5 easy steps to creating a perfect bread machine coffee cake that will become a weekend staple in your household.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand:
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons of butter, softened
- 3 cups of bread flour
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup of raisins or dried fruit (optional)
📝 Note: Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread Machine
Every bread machine model might be slightly different, but here are the general steps:
- Add the liquid ingredients (milk, egg, butter) to the bread pan first.
- Then, add the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon) on top, creating a small well in the center.
- Pour the yeast into the well to keep it from mixing with the liquids too early, which could activate it prematurely.
- Set your bread machine to the "sweet bread" or "cake" setting if available. If not, a basic dough setting will do.
At this point, you can add nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
Step 3: Adding the Topping
What sets a coffee cake apart is its distinctive topping. Here’s how to make it:
Basic Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Granulated Sugar | 1⁄3 cup |
| Brown Sugar | 1⁄4 cup |
| Ground Cinnamon | 2 teaspoons |
| Butter, softened | 1⁄4 cup |
Mix these ingredients in a bowl to form a crumbly texture. At the appropriate time, when your bread machine beeps for additional ingredients, add this topping mix on top of the dough.
Crumb Topping:
If you prefer a crunchier topping, mix:
- 1⁄4 cup flour
- 1⁄4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Using a fork or pastry blender, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
📝 Note: Add the topping after the machine has completed kneading but before the baking cycle starts for the best results.
Step 4: Bake and Monitor
Allow the bread machine to do its magic:
- Follow the machine's prompts. Some machines will indicate when to add toppings or mix-ins.
- Monitor your machine to ensure the cycle is proceeding as expected.
- Adjust the crust color setting if your machine allows; a medium or dark crust often works well for coffee cake.
📝 Note: Resist the urge to open the bread machine during the baking process; it can affect the texture of your bread.
Step 5: Cooling and Serving
Once the baking cycle is complete:
- Carefully remove the loaf from the bread machine. A glove or oven mitt can help due to the heat.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, or for at least 30 minutes.
When serving, consider the following:
- Toppings: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, or just dust with powdered sugar for a rustic look.
- Pairing: Serve warm with a pat of butter or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Finally, savor the delightful moment of cutting into your homemade bread machine coffee cake. The moist, flavorful bread combined with the crunchy topping creates a truly irresistible treat.
In this journey from gathering ingredients to savoring your first bite, you've not only baked a cake but also created a tradition for cozy mornings, family gatherings, or whenever you need a comforting slice of life.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour for my bread machine coffee cake?
+
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but bread flour provides more structure due to its higher gluten content. This helps the cake to rise better and results in a fluffier texture. If using all-purpose flour, you might want to reduce the milk slightly to compensate for the lower gluten.
Why did my coffee cake come out dense instead of light and fluffy?
+
Several factors could contribute to a dense cake: overmixing the dough, using ingredients that are too cold, or over-kneading. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature, use the appropriate setting, and avoid adding extra flour to correct the dough’s texture.
How long can I store the coffee cake, and how should I store it?
+
You can store the coffee cake at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container or wrap. For longer storage, freeze slices individually and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months frozen. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or reheat gently in an oven or microwave.
Can I double the recipe to make a larger coffee cake?
+
Doubling the recipe might exceed the capacity of your bread machine, potentially leading to overflow or incomplete mixing. If you must, do so with caution or consider making two smaller batches.
Is it possible to add fruit to my bread machine coffee cake?
+
Absolutely! Add diced fruit like apples, pears, or berries when your machine beeps for additional ingredients or right after the machine has finished kneading. This ensures the fruit doesn’t get too broken down in the dough.
