Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe

Ingredients

Raspberry Filling

The Raspberry Filling ingredient is a crucial component of the Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe, adding natural sweetness and fruity flavor to the dessert.

Raspberry filling can be made from scratch using fresh or frozen raspberries, but for convenience, store-bought raspberry preserves or jam can also be used.

Here are some common ingredients found in homemade Raspberry Filling:

• Fresh or Frozen Raspberries

• Sugar

• Cornstarch

• Water

• Lemon Juice

• Cinnamon or Nutmeg (optional)

To make homemade Raspberry Filling, follow these steps:

1. Rinse and pick over fresh raspberries to remove any stems or debris.

2. In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh or frozen raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, water, lemon juice, and spices (if using). Stir to combine.

3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and reduces slightly, about 10-15 minutes.

4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before using in the Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe.

Alternatively, use store-bought raspberry preserves or jam by heating it gently over low heat until smooth and spreadable before using in the recipe.

* 1 cup fresh raspberries

Raspberries are a key ingredient in many desserts, including the Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe. For this recipe, you will need 1 cup of fresh raspberries. Fresh raspberries have several characteristics that make them an ideal choice for baking.

Firstly, fresh raspberries are bursting with flavor and aroma. They have a sweet-tart taste that adds depth to the coffee cake, and their fragrance is unmistakable. When you use fresh raspberries in your recipe, the scent of the berries will infuse the entire coffee cake, making it irresistible.

Secondly, fresh raspberries are packed with nutrients and antioxidants. Raspberries are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber, among other essential vitamins and minerals. These nutrients not only add nutritional value to your coffee cake but also contribute to its texture and appearance.

Raspberries have a delicate texture that breaks down easily when cooked. When you use fresh raspberries in your recipe, they will release their juices and flavor as they cook, creating a moist and flavorful coffee cake.

It’s worth noting that using frozen or thawed raspberries may affect the texture and consistency of the coffee cake. While frozen raspberries can still be used in baking, they may not provide the same burst of flavor and aroma as fresh raspberries.

When selecting fresh raspberries for your recipe, choose berries that are plump, firm, and free from mold or blemishes. Avoid using berries that are soft or have visible signs of decay, as they may spoil quickly during storage.

To ensure the best results with this Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe, use 1 cup of fresh raspberries in place of frozen or dried alternatives. The extra flavor and aroma will elevate your coffee cake to a whole new level, making it perfect for brunch, breakfast, or even dessert!

* 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

The ingredient that stands out in this recipe is granulated sugar, which plays a crucial role in balancing the sweetness and flavor of the coffee cake.

In this specific recipe, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar are required to add a subtle sweetness without overpowering the other ingredients.

Granulated sugar serves as more than just an added sweetener; it also helps to bring out the flavors in other components like the cream cheese filling and the fresh raspberries.

Here are some key facts about granulated sugar that contribute to its importance in baking:

• Granulated sugar is composed of sucrose, which provides sweetness without a strong flavor profile.

• It dissolves quickly and evenly when combined with other ingredients, allowing for uniform texture and flavor distribution throughout the coffee cake.

• Sugar also acts as a humectant to retain moisture within the baked goods, maintaining a tender crumb and a delicate texture.

• Furthermore, sugar promotes browning when exposed to heat during baking, creating that attractive golden-brown color on the surface of the coffee cake.

Incorporating 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar into this recipe effectively showcases its multifaceted role in enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake.

* 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Cornstarch is a key ingredient used in various recipes, including the *Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake*. In this specific recipe, it serves as an essential thickening agent for the cream cheese frosting and helps to prevent the glaze from becoming too runny.

When using cornstarch in baking, it’s crucial to understand its purpose. Cornstarch is a starchy powder made from the endosperm of corn kernels. It’s commonly used as a thickening agent in desserts and sauces due to its ability to absorb excess liquid and prevent separation or curdling.

For the Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake, 2 tablespoons of *cornstarch* are required. This is an important measurement, as it will affect the overall consistency and appearance of the cream cheese frosting. To ensure accurate measurements, it’s recommended to use a digital kitchen scale or measuring cups to measure out the cornstarch.

To incorporate cornstarch into your recipe, it’s essential to mix it with a small amount of liquid first. In this case, you’ll need to whisk together the *cornstarch* and a splash of milk or water until smooth before adding it to the cream cheese frosting mixture.

The benefits of using cornstarch in your baking include its ability to thicken sauces and frostings without altering their flavor or texture. Cornstarch also helps to prevent lumps from forming, making it an ideal ingredient for recipes that require a smooth, even consistency.

The ingredients for this delicious Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe are:

• Bread Ingredients:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (55g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• Filling Ingredients:
  • 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup (55g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
• Topping Ingredients:
  • 1 cup (120g) fresh raspberries
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

  You will also need:

  1. Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
  2. A 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish lined with parchment paper

Coffee Cake Batter

The ingredients for the coffee cake batter are an integral part of bringing together the flavors and textures that make this recipe so delightful.

Here’s a list of what you’ll need to get started:

* 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened: This will add richness and tenderness to the crumb of the coffee cake.

* 1 3/4 cups (210g) granulated sugar: Provide sweetness and help balance out the flavors in the recipe.

* 2 large eggs: Eggs serve as a binder and provide moisture, while also helping to leaven the mixture.

* 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: This adds depth and warmth to the overall flavor of the coffee cake.

* 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour: The foundation of the coffee cake, providing structure and texture.

* 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the coffee cake rise and gives it a light, fluffy texture.

* 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances out the sweetness and enhances the flavors in the recipe.

* 1 cup (120g) cream cheese, softened: Adds an extra layer of flavor and helps to bind the mixture together.

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s talk about what happens when they come together. The combination of butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, flour, baking powder, and salt creates a rich, tender crumb that’s perfect for sopping up the sweet raspberry cream cheese frosting.

The addition of softened cream cheese adds an extra layer of flavor and helps to bind the mixture together, creating a delicious and moist coffee cake that’s sure to impress.

* 2 cups allpurpose flour

When it comes to ingredients for the Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe, the first key component is all-purpose flour.

All-purpose flour serves as a fundamental building block in baking, providing structure and texture to baked goods.

In this specific recipe, two cups of all-purpose flour are used.

Here’s what you can do with 2 cups of all-purpose flour:

• Measure out the correct amount: Two cups of all-purpose flour is a standard measurement for most coffee cake recipes.
• Sift or whisk: To incorporate air and ensure even distribution, sift or whisk the flour to remove any lumps.
• Reserve: Set aside the measured and prepared flour for later use in the recipe.

This all-purpose flour will be used to create a delicate yet robust texture in your Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake.

* 1 teaspoon baking powder

Baking powder plays a crucial role in many baked goods, including this delectable Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake recipe.

The function of baking powder is to release carbon dioxide gas when it comes into contact with liquid ingredients and heat, causing the dough or batter to rise.

In the case of this coffee cake recipe, the 1 teaspoon of baking powder helps to leaven the dense mixture of cream cheese and sugar, contributing to the cake’s light and airy texture.

The baking powder also helps to strengthen the structure of the cake, making it more stable and less prone to crumbling or breaking apart.

It’s worth noting that baking powder is a single-acting leavening agent, meaning that it releases all its carbon dioxide at once when it comes into contact with liquid ingredients and heat.

This can be contrasted with double-acting leavening agents like baking soda, which releases carbon dioxide in two stages: first when it comes into contact with liquid ingredients, and again when it’s exposed to heat.

When selecting a baking powder for this recipe, it’s best to use an aluminum-free or non-clumping variety, as these tend to produce more consistent results and are less likely to leave behind unpleasant metallic flavors or textures in the finished cake.

In addition to its role as a leavening agent, baking powder also serves as a pH balancer, helping to regulate the acidity levels in the recipe and preventing an over-acidic flavor from developing.

The use of baking powder in this Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake recipe helps to create a delicate balance between sweetness and tanginess, with the cream cheese and sugar providing a rich and indulgent flavor that’s perfectly offset by the subtle but essential contribution of the baking powder.

* 1/4 teaspoon salt

The ingredients for this scrumptious Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake recipe include:

1. Main Ingredients:

This recipe requires the following main ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

The streusel topping consists of:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

The cream cheese topping includes:

• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (as mentioned in the original prompt)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, separated

The fresh raspberries needed for this recipe are:

• 1 cup fresh raspberries

Optional ingredients include:

• Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)

Please note that these ingredients may vary based on personal preferences or dietary requirements.

* 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

For this Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe, we’ll need a key ingredient that provides moisture and richness to the dish – 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened.

Unsalted butter, also known as sweet butter, is a type of dairy product made from the fat of milk. It’s called “unsalted” because it doesn’t contain added salt, unlike table salt or sea salt which are added to regular butter for flavor.

The use of unsalted butter in baking allows us to control the amount of salt that goes into our recipe. This is especially important when working with yeast-based doughs like coffee cake, where too much salt can inhibit yeast activity and affect the texture of the final product.

When selecting unsalted butter for this recipe, choose a high-quality brand that’s fresh and has a good balance of fat and water content. European-style or cultured butter is ideal because it has a richer flavor profile and a higher fat content (around 82%) compared to regular American butter (around 79% fat).

Softening the butter is crucial for incorporating it into the cream cheese mixture evenly, without any lumps. To soften, remove the butter from the refrigerator about 30-60 minutes before using or place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in short intervals of 10 seconds, stirring between each interval, until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

Now that we have our softened unsalted butter ready to go, we can proceed with combining it with the cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and other ingredients to create the scrumptious Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake filling!

* 3/4 cup granulated sugar

The amount of granulated sugar called for in this Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake recipe is three-fourths cup, or 3/4 cup.

This quantity of granulated sugar serves a few purposes within the coffee cake.

Firstly, it contributes to the sweetness of the final product. The combination of the cream cheese and raspberry filling with the sweet, crumbly topping made from a mixture that includes granulated sugar is what gives this coffee cake its characteristic flavor profile.

Secondly, the granulated sugar adds texture to the coffee cake. When the batter is mixed and then topped with a streusel-like topping consisting of a combination of flour, granulated sugar, and butter that has been cut into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs, the result is a crunchy, crumbly topping.

The third purpose served by this quantity of granulated sugar is to help balance out other flavors in the coffee cake. The tanginess of the cream cheese and the slight tartness of the raspberries are balanced out by the sweetness provided by the granulated sugar.

In summary, the 3/4 cup granulated sugar called for in this Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake recipe plays a critical role in determining both the flavor profile and the texture of this delicious coffee cake.

* 2 large eggs

The first ingredient we need for our Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe is **2 large eggs**.

Eggs are a crucial component in many baked goods, serving as both a binding agent and a source of moisture. They contain proteins that help hold the ingredients together, creating a cohesive texture in the finished product.

In this recipe, the 2 large eggs will contribute to the richness and tenderness of our coffee cake, while also enhancing its overall structure and stability. Whipping the eggs with other wet ingredients, such as sugar and butter, will create a smooth and velvety batter that’s perfect for incorporating the tartness of raspberries.

It’s essential to use **large** eggs in this recipe, as they have a higher protein content than smaller eggs. This ensures that our coffee cake has a robust structure and is less likely to collapse or become too dense.

The quality of your eggs can also impact the final product. Choose **fresh**, **high-quality** eggs for the best results. These will not only add flavor and texture but also help preserve the freshness and aroma of your coffee cake throughout its shelf life.

* 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

The **vanilla extract** is a crucial ingredient in many baked goods, including our Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe.

It’s used to add a deep, rich flavor and aroma to the coffee cake, making it irresistible to both kids and adults.

To incorporate vanilla extract into your baking, you’ll need:

* 2 teaspoons of **vanilla extract**

This may seem like a small amount, but trust us, it makes all the difference in bringing out the flavors in your coffee cake.

So, what exactly is vanilla extract?

Vanilla extract is a liquid flavoring made from the seed pods of the vanilla orchid, which are picked at the peak of ripeness and then cured through a process that involves soaking and drying.

This process helps to bring out the unique flavor and aroma of the vanilla pod, resulting in a product that’s prized for its sweet, creamy, and slightly nutty taste.

Vanilla extract is often used in baking to add depth and warmth to cakes, cookies, and other sweet treats, but it can also be used in savory dishes like soups, sauces, and marinades.

In the context of our Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe, the vanilla extract helps to balance out the sweetness of the sugar and cream cheese frosting, while adding a subtle hint of warm spice.

Instructions

Making the Raspberry Filling

To make the raspberry filling for the Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake, you will need:

• 1 cup of fresh raspberries

• 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar

• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch

• 2 tablespoons of lemon juice

• 1/4 teaspoon of salt

Instructions to make the raspberry filling:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the raspberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt.

2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.

3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the filling has thickened and the raspberries have broken down.

4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Strain the seeds from the mixture if desired for a smooth filling.

5. The raspberry filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

* In a medium saucepan, combine raspberries and granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, until the berries release their juice and the mixture becomes syrupy.

When it comes to following instructions, clarity and detail are crucial. In a recipe such as the Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake, precise guidance ensures that the end result meets expectations.

In the given example, the first step involves combining raspberries and granulated sugar in a medium saucepan. This initial step sets the stage for the rest of the process.

Here’s a breakdown of what this step entails:

• The raspberries should be fresh, plump, and free of any stems or debris.
• The granulated sugar is added to balance out the tartness of the berries and enhance their flavor.

Allowing the mixture to sit for about 15 minutes is a crucial step. During this time:

• The raspberries release their juice, which combines with the sugar to create a syrupy consistency.
• The berries break down and infuse their flavor into the mixture, creating a rich and intense aroma.

This process can be described as maceration, where the fruit is left to steep in its own juices, allowing it to release its natural sweetness and flavor compounds. This technique is commonly used in jam-making and other culinary applications.

As we proceed with the recipe, it’s essential to note that patience and attention to detail are key to achieving the desired results. By following these instructions carefully, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake that’s sure to impress.

* Strain the seeds from the raspberry mixture and mix in cornstarch. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the filling thickens.

When it comes to instructions for a recipe like the Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake, clear and concise directions are essential to ensure that the final product turns out as expected. In this case, the instruction to “strain the seeds from the raspberry mixture” is crucial in preventing any seeds or pulp from affecting the texture and consistency of the filling.

The next step, mixing in cornstarch with the strained raspberry mixture, serves a vital function. Cornstarch is used as a thickening agent, which means it will help to create a smooth and creamy texture for the filling. When mixed with the raspberries, it will help to absorb excess moisture, resulting in a more stable and less runny filling.

Cooking the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, is a critical step that requires close attention. This process allows the cornstarch to activate its thickening properties, gradually transforming the raspberry mixture into a rich and velvety filling. Stirring constantly helps to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan or forming lumps.

The goal is to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency for the filling, which will complement the flavors of the coffee cake perfectly. The use of cornstarch as a thickening agent ensures that the filling will hold its shape and not collapse or become too runny when cooled.

Tips and Variations

Optional Toppings

Tips for making this Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake recipe include:

Letting the dough rest and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes will help it to relax and become easier to roll out.

Making sure to not overmix the cream cheese mixture when combining it with the sugar and egg is crucial, as this can result in a tough coffee cake texture.

Reserving some of the raspberry preserves for drizzling on top of the finished coffee cake adds an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.

Variations to consider include:

Using other types of fruit preserves, such as strawberry or blueberry, to change up the flavor profile.

Adding a streusel topping made with flour, sugar, and cold butter for added crunch.

Swapping out the cream cheese mixture for a mascarpone cheese mixture for a richer, more indulgent taste.

Fresh raspberries or other berries, sliced almonds, or chocolate chips add a pop of color and flavor to the finished coffee cake.

A drizzle of honey or maple syrup provides an extra layer of sweetness and shine.

A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and whimsy to the presentation.

* Confectioners’ sugar

Tips for Working with Confectioners’ Sugar: To ensure that confectioners’ sugar behaves as expected, it’s essential to handle and store it correctly.

1. Storage: Store confectioners’ sugar in an airtight container at room temperature. Exposure to moisture can cause the sugar to become lumpy or develop an unpleasant flavor, so keep it away from humid environments.

2. Sifting: Confectioners’ sugar is often sold as a pre-sifted product. However, for optimal performance, it’s recommended to sift confectioners’ sugar before using it in recipes. This helps remove any lumps and ensures even distribution of the sugar.

3. Measuring: When measuring confectioners’ sugar, use a digital scale or a dry measuring cup to ensure accuracy. The density of confectioners’ sugar can vary between brands and types, so it’s crucial to measure carefully.

Variations with Confectioners’ Sugar: While confectioners’ sugar is a staple in many sweet baked goods, there are instances where alternative ingredients may be used. Here are some common variations:

• Powdered sugar substitute: Some recipes use powdered sugar substitutes like tapioca flour or cornstarch as a 1:1 replacement for confectioners’ sugar.

• Sugar alternatives: Depending on the recipe, sugar alternatives like coconut sugar or date sugar may be used to reduce the refined sugar content.

• Gluten-free options: Confectioners’ sugar can be used as a gluten-free coating for baked goods, providing a light and delicate texture.

Tips for Using Confectioners’ Sugar in the Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Recipe: In the context of this specific recipe, confectioners’ sugar is used to create a sweet and tender crumb topping. Here are some tips to consider:

1. Even distribution: To ensure that the crumb topping is evenly distributed throughout the coffee cake, sift the confectioners’ sugar before mixing it with the other ingredients.

2. Don’t overmix: Mix the confectioners’ sugar into the butter and cream cheese mixture just until combined. Overmixing can cause the crumb topping to become tough and dense.

By following these tips and understanding the variations of confectioners’ sugar, you’ll be well-equipped to create a delicious Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake that’s both visually appealing and satisfyingly sweet!

* Chopped fresh raspberries

To add an extra layer of flavor and texture to your Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake, consider incorporating chopped fresh raspberries into various aspects of the recipe.

Firstly, you can sprinkle a handful of chopped raspberries onto the dough before rolling it out for the coffee cake topping. This will create a delicious fruity surprise in every bite. Simply fold the dough over the raspberries to enclose them and press gently to adhere.

An alternative is to mix a few tablespoons of chopped raspberries into the cream cheese filling, giving it an intense raspberry flavor that complements the sweet coffee cake perfectly. Be sure not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense and tough filling.

For an added pop of color and extra sweetness, you can also sprinkle some chopped fresh raspberries on top of the glaze before it sets. This will add a delightful textural element to your coffee cake and make it even more visually appealing.

If you want to incorporate raspberries into every aspect of your coffee cake, consider using raspberry jam or preserves in place of the cream cheese filling. Simply spread a layer of raspberry jam onto one half of the dough before topping with the other half and baking as directed.

You can also add some chopped fresh mint leaves to your cream cheese mixture for an added layer of flavor. The cooling effect of the mint pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the raspberries, creating a delightful contrast that will keep you wanting more.

* Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

To elevate this delicious raspberry coffee cake, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream as a topping.

Whipped cream adds a sweet and airy texture that complements the tanginess of the cream cheese frosting perfectly.

A simple powdered sugar glaze can be drizzled over the top of the cake, adding an extra layer of sweetness before topping with whipped cream or ice cream.

An alternative to traditional vanilla ice cream is a flavor like caramel or hazelnut, which pairs well with the sweet-tart raspberries and adds a rich depth of flavor.

For a boozy twist, try topping the cake with a scoop of vodka-infused vanilla ice cream for an adult-only treat.

A crunchy element can be added on top by sprinkling chopped nuts or even crushed cookies over the whipped cream or ice cream before serving.

Another option is to sandwich the coffee cake between two layers of whipped cream or ice cream, creating a decadent dessert that’s perfect for special occasions.