Chocolate Swirl Coffee Cake Recipe

This decadent coffee cake features a moist, buttery base with a rich chocolate swirl in the center and a crumbly cinnamon topping. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat with your coffee.

Ingredients
For the Cake:

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

For the Chocolate Swirl Filling:

  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Crumb Topping:

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small pieces)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crumb Topping:
    In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Add the cold butter and, using a fork or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.

  2. Make the Chocolate Swirl Filling:
    In a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, melt the chocolate chips and butter together. Stir in the heavy cream and sugar until smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly.

  3. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

  4. Mix the Cake Batter:
    In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

  5. Combine Dry Ingredients:
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing.

  6. Assemble the Cake:
    Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Spoon the chocolate filling over the batter, spreading it gently to cover the surface. Pour the remaining cake batter over the chocolate layer and spread it out evenly.

  7. Add the Crumb Topping:
    Sprinkle the crumb topping mixture evenly over the top of the cake.

  8. Bake the Cake:
    Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The crumb topping should be golden and slightly crisp.

  9. Cool and Serve:
    Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips

  • Chocolate variations: You can use dark chocolate or milk chocolate depending on your preference for the filling.
  • Extra crunch: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping for added texture.
  • Storage: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

This coffee cake combines a classic crumb topping with a delightful chocolate swirl, making it an indulgent treat to enjoy with your favorite cup of coffee.