Stepping into my kitchen, the rich aroma of cinnamon wafts through the air, instantly transporting me to the cozy coffee shop down the street. Today, I’m excited to share a delightful twist that marries the best of two worlds: Coffee Cake Cheesecake. This scrumptious dessert offers the creamy richness of cheesecake layered with the comforting flavors of traditional coffee cake, making it a perfect treat for gatherings or just a well-deserved afternoon pick-me-up. With its buttery cookie crust and a crumbly topping, this vegetarian gem not only looks stunning but is also effortlessly quick to prepare, so you can focus on enjoying each bite and the smiles it brings. Are you ready to indulge in this heavenly fusion? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Is This Coffee Cake Cheesecake Irresistible?
Indulgent Fusion: The delightful blend of cheesecake and coffee cake flavors creates a unique dessert that’s both rich and comforting.
Decadent Texture: The creamy filling paired with a crunchy crumble topping provides a perfect contrast.
Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward, allowing both novice and experienced bakers to shine in the kitchen!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a festive gathering or a cozy night in, this dessert is sure to impress.
Versatile Options: Experiment with different toppings like fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate, making it your own.
Check out Coffee Cake Muffins for more delightful coffee-inspired treats!
Coffee Cake Cheesecake Ingredients
For the Crust
- Digestive Biscuits (or Graham Crackers) – These form the base of the crust, adding a delightful buttery flavor; feel free to substitute with gluten-free graham crackers if desired.
- Butter – This binds the cookie crumbs together for a sturdy crust; you can use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Cinnamon – This essential warm spice enhances both the crust and cinnamon sugar layers, giving it that comforting flavor.
For the Cheesecake Filling
- Cream Cheese – The key ingredient for the cheesecake, providing that luscious, creamy texture that defines this delicious dessert.
- Sour Cream – It adds smoothness and balances the richness of the cheesecake filling; you can swap it for full-fat Greek yogurt for a thicker consistency.
- Sugar – This sweetens both the filling and the cinnamon sugar layer, making every bite delectable.
- Eggs – Providing structure to the cheesecake; consider a flax egg or commercial egg replacer for an egg-free version.
For the Topping
- Dark Brown Sugar – Its rich, molasses-like flavor enhances both the crumble and cinnamon sugar layer, adding depth to the dish.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base for the crumble topping, ensuring a satisfyingly crunchy texture.
With these carefully selected ingredients, your Coffee Cake Cheesecake will shine at any gathering or cozy afternoon treat!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Coffee Cake Cheesecake
Step 1: Prep Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a food processor, blend the digestive biscuits and cinnamon until fine crumbs form. Add melted butter to the mixture and pulse until combined. Firmly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even layer, then bake for 10 minutes until slightly golden and fragrant.
Step 2: Make Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, combine dark brown sugar and cinnamon, stirring well to mix. Set this mixture aside, as it will add a delightful sweetness and spice to the layers of your Coffee Cake Cheesecake, enhancing its overall flavor.
Step 3: Prepare Crumble
In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with the remaining dark brown sugar. Pour in melted butter and combine with a fork until it creates a crumbly texture. Set aside this crumble topping for later, which will lend a deliciously crunchy finish to your cheesecake.
Step 4: Cream Cheesecake Filling
Using a stand mixer, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy, around 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar, mixing until well combined. Then, blend in the sour cream and cornstarch. Add the eggs, two at a time, mixing just until incorporated after each addition, ensuring the filling is velvety without overmixing.
Step 5: Assemble Layers
Carefully pour half of the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the top with half of the prepared cinnamon sugar mixture, then pour the remaining batter on top. Finally, sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the cheesecake, creating a beautiful layer that will bake to perfection.
Step 6: Bake
To bake the Coffee Cake Cheesecake, place the springform pan inside a larger cake pan. Fill the larger pan with boiling water, reaching about ⅔ up the sides of the springform pan for a gentle cooking environment. Bake for 1 hour and 15-20 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour to cool gradually, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for the best flavor and texture.
Coffee Cake Cheesecake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore delightful twists on this Coffee Cake Cheesecake that will make your taste buds dance!
-
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers instead of digestive biscuits for a delicious crust without gluten.
-
Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, like cashew cream, for a creamy consistency.
-
Nutty Flavor: Add crushed nuts to the crumble topping for an extra layer of crunch and flavor. Pecans or walnuts work well here.
-
Spice it Up: Try adding nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon for a warm, aromatic twist that elevates the dish.
-
Cocoa Touch: For chocolate lovers, swirl in some cocoa powder into the cheesecake mixture before baking, creating a delightful chocolate-infused cheesecake.
-
Berry Burst: Top with fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, before serving for a tart and refreshing contrast that cuts through the richness.
-
Creamy Ganache: Drizzle with chocolate ganache just before serving for a decadent finish that will impress your guests.
-
Pumpkin Spice: In the fall, incorporate pumpkin puree and spice blend for a seasonal favorite. This twist pairs wonderfully with the cheesecake’s creamy texture.
With so many ways to personalize your Coffee Cake Cheesecake, you can create a version that truly speaks to you! For more delightful dessert inspiration, don’t miss our Churro Cheesecake Indulge or try a cozy flavor like Homemade Pumpkin Coffee to complement your baking adventures.
Make Ahead Options
These Coffee Cake Cheesecakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the crust and crumble topping up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate them separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Moreover, you can make the cheesecake filling 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator, just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent any absorption of odors. When you’re ready to assemble, pour the filling over the crust, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar, and add the crumble before baking. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious and perfectly textured dessert with minimal effort on the day you plan to serve it!
Storage Tips for Coffee Cake Cheesecake
Fridge: Store any leftover Coffee Cake Cheesecake in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, retaining its creamy texture and delightful flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating: If you prefer your cheesecake slightly warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave at medium power for about 10-15 seconds, just until warmed through.
Serving: When serving directly from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cutting to enhance the flavor and creamy texture.
Expert Tips for Coffee Cake Cheesecake
-
Choose Quality Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich and creamy filling; low-fat options can result in a less satisfying texture.
-
Avoid Overmixing: When adding eggs, mix gently just until incorporated to prevent air bubbles, which can cause cracks in your cheesecake.
-
Chill Properly: Remember to chill your Coffee Cake Cheesecake overnight. This resting period enhances flavor and sets the texture beautifully.
-
Monitor Water Bath: Ensure the water level in your baking pan doesn’t exceed ⅔ the height of the springform pan to prevent water from seeping in.
-
Cool Gradually: After baking, cool the cheesecake in the oven with the door ajar. This strategy helps prevent cracks caused by sudden temperature shifts.
What to Serve With Coffee Cake Cheesecake
There’s nothing quite like a sweet finale to your meal, enhancing its rich flavors and providing the perfect complement to your indulgent dessert.
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries balances the sweetness of the cheesecake, adding a refreshing bite.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream creates a luxurious contrast, enhancing the creamy texture of the cheesecake.
- Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of a freshly brewed cup complement the coffee cake essence, making each bite even more delightfully rich.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, vanilla ice cream serves as a delicious canvas for the warm flavors of the cheesecake, enhancing the overall experience.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A thin layer of chocolate ganache adds a rich, decadent touch that perfectly intertwines with the cinnamon and cream cheese.
- Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices of chai perfectly complement the flavors of the cheesecake, creating a comforting drink to sip alongside your dessert.
- Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: These fluffy, sweet treats echo the crumble topping on the cheesecake, adding an extra layer of delightful indulgence.
- Nutty Cookie Crust Cheesecake: For those extra indulgent moments, a slice of nutty cheesecake echoes the flavors in your coffee cake cheesecake while offering a delightful contrast in texture.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice offers a sweet and buttery note, elevating your dessert experience to pure bliss.
Coffee Cake Cheesecake Recipe FAQs
What ingredients should I look for in their prime condition?
Absolutely! For the best results, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to easily blend into a smooth filling. Use fresh eggs without cracks and avoid sour cream that is nearing its expiration date. Also, when choosing cinnamon, go for a fragrant, aromatic variety rather than old spices that have lost their potency.
How should I store my Coffee Cake Cheesecake?
Very! Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal freshness. You can also cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil for added protection against drying out.
Can I freeze Coffee Cake Cheesecake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months! When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before indulging.
What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking?
If your cheesecake cracks, don’t fret! This can often happen if the oven temperature is too high or if the cheesecake is overmixed. I recommend baking in a water bath to ensure even heat distribution and avoiding overmixing after adding the eggs. If cracks still occur, cover them with a crumble topping or a drizzle of chocolate ganache for a delicious disguise!
Is this recipe suitable for different dietary needs?
Absolutely! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, there are several easy substitutions. For a nut-free option, opt for gluten-free graham crackers as the crust base and replace the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. You can also use a flax egg or commercial egg replacer for an egg-free version without sacrificing flavor or texture!
How long will leftover Coffee Cake Cheesecake last?
Very! In the fridge, your cheesecake can stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container, and it will retain its signature creamy texture and delightful flavors!
Coffee Cake Cheesecake: Irresistibly Creamy Delight!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Blend the digestive biscuits and cinnamon until fine crumbs form. Add melted butter and pulse until combined. Firmly press the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix dark brown sugar and cinnamon to create cinnamon sugar and set aside.
- In another bowl, mix all-purpose flour with the remaining dark brown sugar. Pour in melted butter and mix until crumbly. Set aside.
- Beat cream cheese on medium speed until smooth, then gradually add sugar. Blend in sour cream and cornstarch, followed by eggs one at a time until just incorporated.
- Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, sprinkle with half of the cinnamon sugar mixture, add the remaining batter, and top with crumble.
- Place the springform pan in a larger baking pan filled with boiling water. Bake for 1 hour and 15-20 minutes, until set around the edges.
- Cool the cheesecake in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Leave a Reply