Pecan Coffee Cake

Pecan Coffee Cake is a deliciously moist and buttery treat, perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack with a hot cup of coffee. This cake features a soft, tender crumb with a generous layer of crunchy pecans and a sweet cinnamon-sugar swirl throughout. Topped with a buttery pecan streusel, each bite offers a delightful balance of nutty flavor and warming spices. This simple yet indulgent cake is ideal for special occasions, brunch gatherings, or whenever you’re in the mood for a comforting homemade treat.

Ingredients:

For the cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

For the pecan streusel:

• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan.
2. Make the streusel: In a small bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Set aside.
3. Prepare the cake batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
5. Assemble the cake: Spread half of the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle half of the pecan streusel over the batter. Spread the remaining batter over the streusel layer, then top with the remaining pecan streusel.
6. Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before serving.

This Pecan Coffee Cake is rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced with a sweet and crunchy pecan topping, making it an irresistible companion to your morning coffee or tea!