As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of cinnamon and coffee wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a quaint café where sweet indulgence reigns supreme. That’s when I decided to merge my two loves: the smooth, creamy decadence of cheesecake and the cozy warmth of a coffee cake. Enter the Coffee Cake Cheesecake, a delightful dessert fusion that’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also wonderfully simple to whip up. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe delivers a comforting, layered experience that combines beloved flavors in one stunning dish. Plus, its easy prep means you can spend more time enjoying it with friends and family. Curious how to make this unique dessert? Let’s dive in! Why will you adore Coffee Cake Cheesecake? Irresistible flavors: The fusion of coffee cake and cheesecake creates a delightful blend of creamy and spiced notes that will make your taste buds sing. Simple preparation: With just a few easy steps, you can whip up this showstopper without any fuss. Ideal for both novice and experienced bakers alike! Perfect for gatherings: This cheesecake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at brunches, potlucks, or cozy dinners. Pair it with some fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an added touch. Versatile indulgence: Experiment with different toppings or crusts to keep things exciting. Whether it’s chocolate or nuts, the options are endless for your taste preferences! Warm and comforting: Each bite transports you to that cozy café atmosphere, making it the perfect dessert for settling in with a good book or sharing laughs with friends. Get ready to impress with this delightful treat, reminiscent of both a classic Biscoff Cookie Cheesecake and a traditional coffee dessert! Coffee Cake Cheesecake Ingredients For the Crust • Graham Crackers – This provides the perfect base; feel free to substitute with almond or pecan crumbs for a nutty twist. • Unsalted Butter – Use melted butter to bind the crust ingredients; coconut oil works for a dairy-free alternative. For the Cheesecake Filling • Cream Cheese – Ensure it’s softened to room temperature; this avoids lumps and guarantees a smooth filling. • Granulated Sugar – Adds essential sweetness; consider using brown sugar for a deeper flavor. • Eggs – Use large eggs at room temperature to ensure a well-mixed batter. • Vanilla Extract – This enhances flavor complexity; almond extract can be swapped for a new nuance. For the Topping • Brown Sugar – Provides moisture and sweetness, making the crumbly topping delightful. • All-Purpose Flour – Helps achieve the perfect crumb texture; you can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed. • Cinnamon – Infuses warm, comforting notes; feel free to adjust according to your taste. • Softened Butter (for topping) – Adds extra richness and helps bind the topping mixture together. This indulgent Coffee Cake Cheesecake is not to be missed! Enjoy crafting this layered delight that’s perfect for any occasion. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Coffee Cake Cheesecake Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures the perfect environment for baking your Coffee Cake Cheesecake evenly. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients so you’re ready to start mixing shortly. Step 2: Prepare the Crust In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs with ½ cup of melted unsalted butter. Mix until the crumbs are fully coated and resemble wet sand. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9-inch springform pan, pressing it firmly into the bottom to create a solid crust. Set this aside to firm up. Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling In another bowl, beat together 16 oz of softened cream cheese and ½ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is silky and smooth. Incorporate 2 large eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly after each addition to ensure a creamy filling. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until fully combined. Step 4: Pour the Filling Take your prepared crust and pour the cream cheese mixture over it, gently spreading it to ensure an even layer. Use a spatula to level the top, making it smooth and inviting. This step sets the foundation for your delightful Coffee Cake Cheesecake. Step 5: Create the Topping In a separate bowl, mix together ¼ cup of brown sugar, ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Add 2 tablespoons of softened butter, mixing until crumbly. This topping will add that signature coffee cake texture and flavor to your cheesecake. Step 6: Add the Topping Carefully sprinkle the crumb topping mixture over the cheesecake layer, ensuring an even coverage across the surface. This delightful crust will add a crunchy, sweet contrast to the creamy filling as it bakes, infusing your Coffee Cake Cheesecake with rich flavors. Step 7: Bake the Cheesecake Place the springform pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Look for the edges to be set with a slight jiggle in the center; this indicates it’s perfectly baked. Keep an eye out for light browning on top, signaling that the crumb topping is achieving that delicious crunch. Step 8: Cool the Cheesecake Once baking is complete, remove the Coffee Cake Cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for 1 hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracking, making for a beautiful presentation when ready to serve. Step 9: Refrigerate After the hour has passed, cover the cheesecake and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and results in a firm yet creamy texture, ready to delight your taste buds. Step 10: Serve and Enjoy When you’re ready to serve, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Slice the Coffee Cake Cheesecake into pieces and consider garnishing with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch. Enjoy this sweet fusion that captures the best of both worlds! Coffee Cake Cheesecake Variations & Substitutions Feel free to customize your Coffee Cake Cheesecake and explore these delicious alternatives for an even more unique experience! Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or ground almonds for a perfect gluten-free base. Enjoy the same great flavor without compromise! Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and opt for coconut oil in the crust for a completely dairy-free delight. It’s just as rich and delicious! Flavor Boost: Add a tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the batter for an extra caffeine kick, intensifying that delightful coffee flavor. This tiny twist can elevate your whole dessert! Nutty Crunch: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the topping for a lovely crunch. This addition brings not just texture but also a hint of nuttiness that perfectly complements your cheesecake. Spiced Twist: Experiment with different spices! Swap out cinnamon for nutmeg or ginger for an exciting flavor twist that will warm your senses. Chocolate Lovers: For an indulgent version, add cocoa powder to the crust and topping mixture. Chocolate and coffee are a match made in heaven! Fruit Infusion: Incorporate finely chopped apples or peaches into the cheesecake batter for a fruity surprise. This adds a fresh dimension that brightens each bite. Boozy Bliss: A splash of coffee liqueur or Irish cream in the filling can transform your cheesecake into a delightful after-dinner treat. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly! Explore these variations to find your favorite twist! Just like my beloved Lemon Velvet Cake and Apple Crumble Cheesecake, there are so many ways to make this one your own. Happy baking! What to Serve with Coffee Cake Cheesecake Imagine delighting your guests with the rich, creamy allure of your Coffee Cake Cheesecake, perfectly complemented by other tasteful treats that elevate the experience. Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a burst of freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the cheesecake. Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop brings a light, airy contrast to each bite, making every mouthful feel indulgent. Espresso: The robust flavors of a freshly brewed cup enhance the coffee notes of the cheesecake, making it an excellent after-dinner digestif. Frangipane Tart: This nutty pastry with its smooth almond filling works beautifully alongside the cheesecake’s creamy textures. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling some warm chocolate over a slice adds a luscious richness, enhancing the overall dessert experience. Spiced Nuts: A mix of candied or spiced nuts can add a delightful crunch, providing a textural contrast to the smooth cheesecake. Indulge your senses with these complementary treats that will surely impress your friends and family at your next gathering! Make Ahead Options These Coffee Cake Cheesecake are perfect for busy home cooks! You can prepare the crust by combining the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its freshness. Additionally, you can mix the cheesecake filling and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before pouring it onto the crust. When you’re ready to bake, just pour the filling over the crust and add the topping before placing it in the oven. This way, you can enjoy a delicious cheesecake with minimal effort, saving you valuable time for family and friends! How to Store and Freeze Coffee Cake Cheesecake Room Temperature: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before leaving it out for no more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage. Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and flavors for that next delightful slice! Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to preserve the cheesecake’s consistency. Reheating: While this Coffee Cake Cheesecake is best served chilled, you can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a comforting dessert experience. Expert Tips for Coffee Cake Cheesecake Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Always start with room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps. Take it out about 30-60 minutes before mixing for the best results. Gentle Mixing: Mix ingredients gently to prevent incorporating too much air. This will help avoid cracks in your cheesecake during baking. Gradual Cooling: Let your cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This technique helps to minimize cracking on the surface. No Peeking: Resist the urge to open the oven door while baking, as this can cause sudden temperature changes that lead to cracks in the Coffee Cake Cheesecake. Overnight Chill: Allowing the cheesecake to chill overnight will improve the flavors and ensure a firmer texture. Patience truly pays off with this dessert! Coffee Cake Cheesecake Recipe FAQs What type of graham crackers should I use for the crust? You can use standard graham crackers, but if you want to shake things up, almond or pecan crumbs work beautifully as substitutes. Just make sure they have a similar texture for the best results! How should I store leftovers of Coffee Cake Cheesecake? Absolutely! Store any leftover Coffee Cake Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and flavors. If you plan to enjoy it later, consider freezing it! Can I freeze Coffee Cake Cheesecake, and if so, how? Yes, you can freeze Coffee Cake Cheesecake! First, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This keeps it fresh for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. What if my cheesecake cracks while baking? No worries! Cracks can happen, but there are steps you can take to minimize them. Make sure to mix ingredients gently to limit air bubbles, and avoid opening the oven door while it’s baking. If it does crack, a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of ganache can cleverly hide it! Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Definitely! If you have allergies, be sure to check those against the ingredients. For a gluten-free option, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and for dairy-free needs, coconut oil can replace unsalted butter, while using vegan cream cheese will keep your cheesecake dairy-free! Can I adjust the sweetness of the cheesecake? Very! Feel free to swap granulated sugar for brown sugar in both the filling and the crumb topping for a richer flavor. If you want it less sweet, simply reduce the amount of sugar. Each small adjustment can make a big difference in taste! Coffee Cake Cheesecake: Indulgence You Can’t Resist The Coffee Cake Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and warm coffee cake, creating an irresistible dessert experience. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrCooling Time 5 hours hrsTotal Time 6 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust1.5 cups Graham Crackers Can substitute with almond or pecan crumbs.0.5 cups Unsalted Butter Melted.For the Cheesecake Filling16 oz Cream Cheese Softened to room temperature.0.5 cups Granulated Sugar Can use brown sugar.2 large Eggs At room temperature.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Almond extract can be swapped.For the Topping0.25 cups Brown Sugar0.25 cups All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour.1 teaspoon Cinnamon Adjust according to taste.2 tablespoons Softened Butter For topping. Equipment 9-inch springform panMixing bowlsspatulaMixer Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs with ½ cup of melted unsalted butter. Mix until the crumbs are fully coated. Transfer to a greased 9-inch springform pan and press firmly to form a crust.Beat together 16 oz of softened cream cheese and ½ cup of granulated sugar until smooth. Incorporate 2 large eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix well.Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust, spreading evenly and leveling the top.In a separate bowl, mix ¼ cup of brown sugar, ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Add 2 tablespoons of softened butter and mix until crumbly.Sprinkle the crumb topping mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until the edges are set with a slight jiggle in the center.Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature for 1 hour before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.Remove from the springform pan, slice, and serve. Optionally garnish with fresh berries or whipped cream. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 4gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4.5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg NotesThis Coffee Cake Cheesecake captures the essence of both a classic cake and cheesecake, making it an excellent pick for any occasion. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
