Next, in another bowl, whisk together the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; we want a tender, fluffy cake, not a dense one! Once the batter is mixed, spread half of it into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
Now, let’s make the streusel topping! In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts if using. Sprinkle about half of this mixture over the cake layer in the pan. Then, gently dollop the remaining batter on top and spread it evenly. Finally, sprinkle the rest of the streusel topping over the top layer of batter. The cinnamon smell that fills the air at this point is simply heavenly!
Bake the cake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. I love letting it cool while I prepare my coffee; they really do go hand in hand.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways to find the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The first time, I added too much cinnamon and found it overwhelming. Stick to one teaspoon for that lovely hint of spice without overpowering the other flavors!
Another tip I can share is to always measure your flour correctly. I like to spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly with the cup. This keeps the cake from becoming dry and crumbly!
Lastly, if you want to get adventurous, consider adding a layer of fruit like blueberries or apples between the batter and streusel. It adds moisture and a lovely pop of flavor that’s just delightful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I made on my first attempt was not creaming the butter and sugar enough. It’s important to take your time with this step, as it adds air to the batter and contributes to a light, fluffy cake. Remember, it should be light in color and fluffy in texture. (See the next page below to continue…)