If you’re on the lookout for a delightful treat that perfectly balances moist texture with rich, chocolaty goodness, then this Chocolate Chip Sour Cream Coffee Cake Recipe is exactly what you need in your baking repertoire. Imagine tender cake flecked generously with dark chocolate chunks, brought to life by the tangy creaminess of sour cream, and kissed with subtle coffee and cinnamon notes. It’s the kind of cake that feels like a cozy hug in every bite, ideal for breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or sharing with friends over a cup of your favorite brew.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of several small white bowls and a white plate arranged on a dark surface. The front bowl is filled with black coffee, dark and shiny with a few small bubbles on top. Behind it, there is a second white bowl filled with a rough, crumbly light brown ingredient, possibly brown sugar. Next to it, a smaller bowl holds a fine dark brown powder, likely cocoa or coffee. On the white plate to the right, many cinnamon sticks are lined up and secured with a pink leather strap, accompanied by small dried flowers in soft pink and beige tones. The background contains blurred elements such as a cinnamon stick and a white cup filled with coffee beans. The whole scene is set on a dark surface with a soft light coming from the side, highlighting the textures clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, contributing to its incredible flavor, tender crumb, and inviting aroma. From the flour that gives structure to the chocolate chips that add bursts of indulgence, each component is thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious and satisfying cake.

1 1/2 cups all-purpose or whole wheat pastry flour: Provides a soft yet sturdy base for the cake’s tender crumb.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and achieve a light texture.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth, enhancing the chocolate and coffee flavors.
1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies other flavors.
1-3 tablespoons instant espresso/coffee powder: Offers subtle bitterness and complexity without overpowering the cake.
1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: Keeps the cake moist and tender with a slight tang.
1/2 cup maple syrup: Natural sweetness with a lovely, rich undertone.
1/2 cup melted coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil: Adds moisture and a delicate richness to the cake.
3 eggs: Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Brightens all flavors and adds a sweet aroma.
1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate, plus more for topping: Delivers decadent chocolate pockets throughout every slice.
1/2 cup brown sugar: Essential for the streusel topping’s caramelized texture.
2 tablespoons flour: Combines with sugar and butter to create the perfect crumbly streusel.
2 tablespoons melted butter: Makes the streusel rich and melts into a crisp topping.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Added to the streusel to echo the spice in the cake.
1 cup powdered sugar: For creating a silky icing glaze that adds a finishing touch.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Included in the icing for enhanced flavor complexity.
1-4 tablespoons water or brewed espresso/coffee: Adjusts the icing consistency and intensifies the coffee taste.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Sour Cream Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350° F. This ensures the temperature is just right when the batter is ready to go in. Take a 9×9 inch square cake pan and line it with parchment paper; this simple step guarantees easy removal and clean edges once your coffee cake is baked to perfection.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and instant espresso or coffee powder. These dry ingredients are where the magic begins, combining to create a beautifully scented base that will support the rich flavors in the cake.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, blend the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), eggs, maple syrup, melted coconut or olive oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. The creaminess and moisture from the sour cream work wonders here, making your cake irresistibly tender and flavorful.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry and Wet Mixes, Then Add Chocolate

Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Overworking the batter can lead to a denser crumb, so mix gently. Finally, fold in the chopped dark chocolate pieces to scatter pockets of gooey chocolate throughout your cake.

Step 5: Prepare the Streusel Topping

Create the streusel by combining brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and cinnamon in a bowl. Mix until a crumble forms—it should be slightly coarse and sticky. This topping adds a delightful crunchy contrast and enhances the overall texture profile of your coffee cake.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour half of the batter into your lined pan, then sprinkle the streusel evenly over it. Spoon the remaining batter on top—it’s okay if the streusel peeks through! Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Add Icing

Let your cake cool for about 30 minutes before drizzling the optional icing over it. To make the icing, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 to 4 tablespoons of water or brewed espresso to reach your desired consistency. Finish by scattering extra chocolate chunks over the glaze and allow it to set for an hour before slicing and indulging.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Sour Cream Coffee Cake Recipe

This image shows six rectangular bars of dessert on parchment paper placed on a dark surface. Each bar has three layers: a bottom light brown cake layer with a soft crumb texture, a thick smooth tan peanut butter frosting layer on top, and uneven dark brown chocolate shavings scattered over the frosting. One bar is partially eaten, showing the moist inside with chocolate swirls. There is a wooden-handled knife and some dried flowers on the top right side. The background is changed to a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few fresh berries can brighten up your coffee cake visually and add subtle extra layers of flavor. If you want a little extra indulgence, a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese frosting makes a dreamy pair with the chocolate and coffee notes.

Side Dishes

This coffee cake shines alongside a steaming cup of your favorite coffee or tea, amplifying the cozy experience. It also pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salad or a simple bowl of yogurt for a balanced and delightful breakfast spread or brunch centerpiece.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert or cut into smaller squares and arranged on a platter for a lovely brunch buffet. Wrapping individual slices in parchment paper and tying with twine makes a charming gift for friends and neighbors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Chocolate Chip Sour Cream Coffee Cake Recipe has cooled completely, keep leftovers covered at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap to preserve moisture and prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices or the whole cake securely in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature or warm gently in the oven.

Reheating

For that just-baked feel, pop a slice in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or warm it in an oven preheated to 300° F for about 10 minutes. The chocolate melts slightly, and the cake softens, making it taste freshly made.

FAQs

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in this recipe?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute and will maintain the moist texture and slight tang that sour cream provides. Just use the same amount for a seamless swap.

What if I don’t have instant espresso powder on hand?

If you don’t have instant espresso powder, you can use regular brewed coffee (reduce the water in the icing by the same amount) or simply omit it. The cake will still be delicious but with less of that coffee depth.

Is it okay to use regular all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat pastry flour?

Yes, regular all-purpose flour works well in this recipe and will produce a slightly different texture—still moist and tender, but a bit heartier with whole wheat pastry flour.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make this cake gluten-free, swap the flour for a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum. Be sure to check your baking powder and chocolate to ensure they are certified gluten-free as well.

How long does this cake keep fresh?

When stored at room temperature properly covered, your Chocolate Chip Sour Cream Coffee Cake Recipe stays fresh for up to two days. Refrigerating can extend freshness to about four days but may slightly change the texture.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Chip Sour Cream Coffee Cake Recipe is a treasure trove of tender, moist cake balances, melting pockets of chocolate, and just the right touch of coffee and cinnamon. It’s perfect for sharing at any time of day and always brings smiles to the table. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a cherished classic in your kitchen!