Name: Easy Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1 cup (240 g) sour cream or plain Greek yogurt; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups (270 g) chocolate chips; 1/3 cup (65 g) brown sugar (for topping); 1 tsp cinnamon (for topping); 3 tbsp (40 g) unsalted butter, melted (for topping)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is the perfect balance of fluffy, buttery crumb and rich chocolate chips. The streusel topping adds a delightful crunch, making each bite extra special. It’s versatile enough to serve for a casual weekend breakfast, a holiday brunch, or as a sweet treat after dinner. Plus, it stays moist for days, making it ideal for make-ahead baking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
Vanilla extract
Chocolate chips
Cinnamon (for the topping)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, cream butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
Mix in sour cream until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips.
Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle with some of the streusel topping, then spread the remaining batter on top. Finish with the rest of the topping.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake serves 12–15 slices. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, and baking takes 35–40 minutes.

Variations

Use mini chocolate chips for a more even distribution of chocolate.
Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the streusel topping for extra crunch.
Swap chocolate chips with white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a fun twist.
Add a swirl of cinnamon sugar through the middle for even more flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

FAQs

What makes coffee cake different from regular cake?

Coffee cake is typically less sweet, often has a crumb topping, and is meant to be enjoyed with coffee rather than containing coffee as an ingredient.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, plain Greek yogurt works well and provides the same moisture and tang.

How do I prevent chocolate chips from sinking?

Toss the chocolate chips in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter to keep them evenly distributed.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Can I bake this in a bundt pan?

Yes, but baking time may increase slightly. Be sure to grease the pan well.

Do I need to refrigerate coffee cake?

No, it can be kept at room temperature for a few days, but refrigerating can extend freshness.

Can I add a glaze on top?

Absolutely! A simple powdered sugar glaze or chocolate drizzle makes a great finishing touch.

Can I make this cake without the streusel topping?

Yes, but the topping adds great texture and flavor. The cake will still be delicious without it.

What’s the best way to serve coffee cake?

It’s delicious warm or at room temperature, served with coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but you’ll need two pans or a larger baking dish to accommodate the extra batter.

Conclusion

Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake is a classic, cozy bake that’s perfect for any time of day. With its tender crumb, rich chocolate chips, and buttery streusel topping, it’s a treat that never disappoints. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake is sure to become a family favorite.

Easy Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake