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Cherry Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping – Buttery, Soft, and Perfectly Sweet

A slice of Cherry Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping is the kind of comfort that turns any morning or afternoon into a cozy moment. Soft, tender cake layered with sweet cherries and finished with a buttery crumb topping delivers the perfect balance of fruitiness and richness. It’s ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. This recipe focuses on simple ingredients and reliable results. The crumb topping bakes into golden clusters, the cherries add bursts of flavor, and the cake stays moist and tender. Whether you’re hosting guests or baking for the week ahead, this coffee cake is a timeless favorite that always impresses.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
bake time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup milk
  • 1½ cups cherries pitted and halved (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained)
For the Crumb Topping
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (large and medium)
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 9×9-inch baking pan
  • Parchment paper (optional)
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Lightly grease the baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
    Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
      Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
        Step 4: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
          Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Mix gently until just combined.
            Step 6: Fold the cherries into the batter carefully to avoid breaking them apart.
              Step 7: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
                Step 8: In a separate bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt for the crumb topping.
                  Step 9: Pour the melted butter over the crumb mixture and stir until large, moist crumbs form.
                    Step 10: Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the cake batter.
                      Step 11: Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
                        Step 12: Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

                          Notes

                          🧊 Storage & Reheating
                          Storage
                          Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
                          Refrigerate for up to 5 days for longer freshness
                          Reheating
                          Warm slices gently to refresh the crumb topping
                          Serve at room temperature if preferred
                          🥄 Variations
                          Almond Twist: Add almond extract to the batter
                          Mixed Fruit: Combine cherries with blueberries or raspberries
                          Nutty Crumb: Add chopped nuts to the topping
                          Lemon Brightness: Add lemon zest to the cake batter
                          Mini Cakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual portions
                          ❓ 10 FAQs
                          Can I use frozen cherries?
                          Yes, thaw and drain them well before using.
                          Why is it called coffee cake?
                          It’s traditionally served with coffee, not made with it.
                          Can I make this ahead of time?
                          Yes, it tastes even better the next day.
                          How do I keep the crumb topping crunchy?
                          Use cold or just-melted butter and avoid overmixing.
                          Can I reduce the sugar?
                          Slightly, but it may affect texture.
                          Does this freeze well?
                          Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
                          Can I use canned cherries?
                          Yes, drain them very well before adding.
                          Why alternate dry ingredients and milk?
                          It keeps the batter smooth and tender.
                          Is this good for brunch?
                          Perfect for brunch tables and gatherings.
                          Can kids enjoy this cake?
                          Absolutely—it’s mild, sweet, and family-friendly.
                          🏁 Conclusion
                          This Cherry Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping is a classic bake that delivers comfort, flavor, and simplicity in every slice. With juicy cherries, a tender crumb, and a buttery topping, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat. Easy to make and even easier to love, this recipe deserves a regular spot in your baking rotation.