Low Sugar Classic Coffee Cake

Total time1 hr 20 min

Prep time20 min

Cook time45 min

This tender, buttery cake owes its soft crumb to a rich batter built with sour cream, vanilla, and just the right amount of eggs, folded together until thick and pillowy. Tucked into the center and scattered across the top is a cinnamon-spiced crumb layer studded with toasted walnuts or pecans, giving every bite that irresistible crunch-meets-tender contrast coffee cake is known for. As it bakes, the streusel turns deep golden and slightly crackled, while the interior stays moist and fine-crumbed underneath. It's the kind of cake that fills the kitchen with warm cinnamon and vanilla aromas long before it's out of the oven. Sliced thick and served slightly warm, it's a comforting match for your morning coffee. This one is a solid pick for anyone following an added sugar free approach, no compromise on that classic crumb-topped texture and flavor.

About Fig

Fig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.

Learn more →

Ingredients

12 servings

For the cake

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
King Arthur Baking Company Unbleached All-Purpose Flour Gold Medal Flour All-Purpose Unbleached - 5 Lb Bob's Red Mill Organic All Purpose Unbleached White Flour - 5 Lb Bob's Red Mill All Purpose Unbleached White Flour - 5 Lb Pillsbury Best Flour All Purpose - 5 Lb
See all
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
Chef's tip
Use the same volume. Baking behavior varies by blend: some brown faster or stay softer, while others brown less. Follow the package's baking guidance and start checking a few minutes early.
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream

For the streusel

1 cup packed light brown sugar
Chef's tip
Use the same volume. Brown-sugar replacements vary in moisture, spread, and browning, so follow the package's baking guidance and start checking a few minutes early.
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp salt
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray.
2
Make the streusel: In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, 1/2 cup flour, cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir with a fork until the mixture clumps into coarse, sandy crumbs. Fold in the walnuts or pecans, if using. Set aside.

Want the full recipe?

Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!