why make this recipe

This cake is cozy and simple. It uses sourdough starter for a gentle tang. The pecan streusel adds crunch and warmth. It feels like a slow morning in a busy week. If you love sourdough treats, try my sourdough discard coffee cake for another easy bake.

how to make Sourdough Pecan Coffee Cake

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 cup chopped pecans, 1 cup sourdough starter, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 cup milk, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Sourdough Pecan Coffee Cake

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan.
In a bowl, mix together the streusel ingredients until crumbly. Set aside.
In another bowl, whisk together the sourdough starter, granulated sugar, milk, egg, and vanilla.
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan, then sprinkle with half of the streusel mixture.
Add the remaining batter on top, followed by the remaining streusel.
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

how to serve Sourdough Pecan Coffee Cake

Slice it warm. The streusel stays crisp. A dusting of powdered sugar looks nice. Serve with coffee or tea. I also like to set it beside a nutty loaf when guests come.

how to store Sourdough Pecan Coffee Cake

Cool completely first. Wrap the pan in plastic or transfer slices to an airtight container. Keep at room temperature for 2 days. Refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds.

tips to make Sourdough Pecan Coffee Cake

Use cold butter for the streusel. It makes nice crumbs. Don’t overmix the batter. Stir until just combined. Test with a toothpick near the center. If crumbs stick, bake a few more minutes. If you want a nuttier table, bake my savory maple pecan sourdough bread to go alongside. Let the cake rest a bit before slicing; it cuts cleaner that way.

variation (if any)

Add orange zest to the batter for brightness. Swap pecans for walnuts if you prefer. Stir in a handful of chocolate chips for a sweeter twist. You can also pour a simple vanilla glaze over the cooled cake.

FAQs

Q: Can I use discard instead of active starter?
A: Yes. Discard works well here. The cake still gets great texture and flavor.

Q: Can I make this in a loaf pan?
A: Yes. Reduce baking time slightly and check earlier with a toothpick.

Q: How do I keep the streusel crunchy?
A: Add it near the end of baking if you worry about sogginess. Also use cold butter when making it.

Sourdough Pecan Coffee Cake

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