This healthy coffee cake is a lightened-up version of the classic, packed with wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour, Greek yogurt, and coconut sugar.
The result is a moist, tender cake with a crunchy cinnamon streusel topping, perfect for breakfast or a mid-afternoon snack alongside a cup of coffee.
Total time required: 45-50 minutes
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 8-10 slices
Ingredients
The necessary ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations):
For the cake:
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour)
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar (or maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (or mashed bananas)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
- 1/4 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the streusel topping:
- 1/3 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup almond flour (or whole wheat flour)
- 2 tablespoons coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or melted butter)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Alternative Ingredients:
- For a vegan version: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg), plant-based yogurt, and almond milk.
- For a gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.
Steps
The steps of preparation (possible in all kinds of variations):
This healthy coffee cake is easy to whip up, with a crumbly, cinnamon-spiced topping and a tender, moist base. Here’s how to make it:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, mix the applesauce, Greek yogurt, almond milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Make the streusel topping: In a small bowl, combine the oats, almond flour, coconut sugar, coconut oil, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the cake batter.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the coffee cake cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Enjoy this healthy coffee cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting, delicious treat!
Nutritional Benefits
This healthier version of coffee cake offers some great nutritional benefits while keeping the indulgent flavors:
- High in fiber: Whole wheat flour and oats provide fiber, which supports digestion and helps keep you full.
- Lower in sugar: Coconut sugar or maple syrup is used instead of refined sugar, making this cake naturally sweetened.
- Protein-packed: Greek yogurt and eggs provide a boost of protein, which helps with muscle repair and keeps you energized.
- Healthy fats: Coconut oil and almond flour add healthy fats, which are important for heart health and brain function.
Possible Additions or Upgrades
Here are a few ways to customize your healthy coffee cake:
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the streusel for extra crunch.
- Stir in dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs to the batter for a rich chocolatey flavor.
- Mix in berries like blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup on top for extra sweetness.
- Use pumpkin spice or nutmeg in place of cinnamon for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes! It stays fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature in an airtight container. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week.
Can I freeze coffee cake?
Yes, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or microwave.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat?
Yes, but using whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients. You can also use a mix of both.
Can I use a different sweetener?
You can use maple syrup, agave, or even date syrup instead of coconut sugar. Adjust the amount to taste.
Can I make this coffee cake gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use certified gluten-free oats.
Is this coffee cake dairy-free?
It can be! Just use dairy-free yogurt and almond milk instead of regular yogurt and milk.
How do I know when the coffee cake is done?
It’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Can I add fruit to the batter?
Absolutely! You can fold in berries or diced apples for a fruity version of the coffee cake.
What can I serve with coffee cake?
This cake pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea. You can also add a dollop of Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess.
How can I make the cake lighter?
You can substitute some of the whole wheat flour with almond flour to make it lighter in texture, and reduce the sugar for a less sweet cake.
This healthy coffee cake is a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition, making it an ideal treat for any time of day. Share it with friends and family, and enjoy a guilt-free slice!
