Coffee cake. It’s a name that conjures images of sweet, iced cakes meant for indulging.
But why is the cake called coffee cake? After all, the classic coffee cake recipe contains no coffee. That is the mystery we are here to explore.
With the help of some food historians and pastry chefs, we’ll look into the history of coffee cake and discover the secret behind itsname. Let’s dive in!
Why is It Called Coffee Cake?
When someone hears the words “coffee cake”, they often think of a sweet baked snack that’s perfect for non-breakfast food like brunch or dessert. But why is this delicious baked good called “coffee cake”?A Quick History
Coffee cake has been around for centuries, originally made by German immigrants to America in the early 19th century. Its name isn’t because the cake contains coffee, but rather because it was traditionally served with a cup of coffee.It was a popular accompaniment to the morning beverage, and it soon came to be known as “coffee cake”.
What Exactly Makes It’s A Coffee Cake?
The popularity of coffee cake has endured for centuries, with variations of the original recipe spawning all sorts of delicious cakes.Golden cakes with a buttery crumb topping are a classic example of the traditional coffee cake, but there are so many variations. In fact, there’s no single answer to “what is a coffee cake?
” This is because the definition changes depending on where in the world you are. In some countries, like the UK, coffee cake refers to a type of soft, sweet cake that contains dried fruits.
In other places, like the U. S. , it refers to a moist, cinnamon-spiced cake.
No matter where the recipe varies, there are certain elements that are consistent throughout:
- A soft crumbly batter
- A buttery topping or streusel
- A sweet, cake-like flavor profile