Cherry Almond Coffee Cake

Cherry-Almond Coffee Cake is a delightful and indulgent baked treat that pairs the sweet tartness of cherries with the nutty richness of almonds. This moist and tender coffee cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or enjoying alongside a cup of coffee or tea. Its combination of plump cherries, almond flavoring, and a crumbly streusel topping creates a comforting and flavorful dessert that is equally at home as a sweet snack or a centerpiece for special occasions. In this recipe, we’ll explore the history of coffee cakes and learn how to make this Cherry-Almond delight.

Coffee cake has a long and varied history that spans multiple countries and cultures. The concept of a cake designed to accompany coffee originated in Europe during the 17th century. Coffee houses were becoming popular social gathering places, and people wanted a suitable pastry to enjoy with their coffee.

In Germany, a tradition called “Kaffee und Kuchen” (coffee and cake) emerged, where families and friends would gather in the afternoon to share coffee and various types of cake, including streuselkuchen (crumb cake). The idea soon spread to other European countries and the United States.

Coffee cakes evolved over time, with each culture adding its unique flavors and ingredients. In North America, coffee cakes became known for their moist and tender crumb, often featuring fruits, nuts, and sweet toppings.

Cherries have been a beloved fruit in various cuisines for centuries, and they made their way into coffee cakes to add a burst of sweetness and tartness. Almonds, too, have a long history of culinary use and became a popular pairing with cherries in desserts.

The Cherry-Almond Coffee Cake, with its delightful combination of fruity and nutty flavors, is a testament to the rich history of coffee cakes and the creativity of bakers throughout the ages.

INGREDIENTS

For the Streusel Topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds

For the Cake Batter:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved

For Optional Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk or water
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Streusel Topping

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and cold, cubed unsalted butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Stir in the sliced almonds. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the almond extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Spread half of the cake batter evenly into the prepared cake pan.
2. Scatter the halved cherries over the batter.
3. Gently spread the remaining batter over the cherries.

Step 5: Add Streusel Topping

1. Sprinkle the prepared streusel topping evenly over the top of the cake batter.

Step 6: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool

1. Allow the Cherry-Almond Coffee Cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare Optional Glaze (if desired)

1. In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, milk or water, and almond extract until you achieve a smooth glaze.

Step 9: Drizzle Glaze (if desired) and Serve

1. Drizzle the optional glaze over the cooled coffee cake.
2. Slice and serve your Cherry-Almond Coffee Cake, savoring the delightful combination of cherries, almonds, and crumbly streusel.

This Cherry-Almond Coffee Cake is a delightful testament to the history of coffee cakes and the versatility of cherries and almonds in baking. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat with your favorite beverage, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.