The Ultimate Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Guide for Beginner Bakers

There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of a freshly baked coffee cake filling the kitchen. The combination of buttery cake, creamy cheesecake filling, juicy raspberries, and crunchy streusel topping creates an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, treating yourself with your morning coffee, or preparing a light dessert for guests, this Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake will quickly become a favorite.

Print

I still remember my first attempt at baking a coffee cake. I was nervous about getting the texture right—would it be too dry, too dense, or even collapse in the middle? But what I learned was that this type of cake is surprisingly forgiving. Unlike delicate sponge cakes that require precision, coffee cakes are designed to be moist and sturdy, making them perfect for beginner bakers.

In this guide, we’ll walk through every step in great detail, offering practical tips to ensure success. If you’ve never baked before, don’t worry—you’ll finish this recipe with newfound confidence and a delicious cake to show for it.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Beginners

Baking from scratch can feel overwhelming, but this recipe is structured to be as simple and approachable as possible. Here’s why this is an ideal starting point for new bakers:

1. Three Separate Components, but Easy to Manage – The recipe consists of a cake base, a cheesecake filling, and a crumbly streusel topping. Since each part is prepared separately and assembled in layers, the process is simple to follow.
2. Moist and Forgiving Batter – Thanks to sour cream, this cake remains soft and moist even if slightly overbaked, reducing the risk of dryness.
3. Minimal Special Equipment Needed – You don’t need a stand mixer or fancy tools. A simple hand mixer, mixing bowls, and a springform pan will get the job done.
4. Customizable Ingredients – The recipe allows for substitutions, making it adaptable based on what you have at home.

Understanding the Ingredients and Possible Substitutions

Before diving into the steps, let’s take a closer look at why each ingredient matters and how you can make substitutions if needed.

For the Filling:

• ¼ cup sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese mixture without overpowering it.
• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened – Gives the cake a luscious, creamy texture. Mascarpone is an excellent alternative for a richer flavor.
• 1 egg white – Helps bind the filling and gives it a light consistency. If you don’t have eggs, replace with 1 tablespoon of Greek yogurt.
• 1 cup raspberries, washed and well-drained – Adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich cake. Strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries can also be used.

For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure. If you want a softer cake, replace half with cake flour.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder & ½ teaspoon baking soda – Essential for lift and fluffiness.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
• 5 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter, softened – Adds moisture and richness. If using salted butter, reduce the added salt.
• ½ cup sugar – Provides sweetness. If reducing sugar, don’t go below ⅓ cup, or the texture may change.
• 1 egg + 1 egg yolk – The extra yolk gives the cake a rich and tender crumb.
• ¾ cup sour cream – Keeps the cake moist. Can be replaced with Greek yogurt.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth to the flavor.

For the Streusel Topping:

• ⅓ cup sugar – Sweetens the crumble.
• ½ cup flour – Creates a crumbly texture.
• 3 tablespoons butter, chilled and cubed – The key to a crunchy, golden topping. If too soft, the streusel will melt into the cake.

Step-by-Step Instructions: A Beginner’s Guide to Baking This Cake

1. Preparing the Pan and Preheating the Oven

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Making the Cream Cheese Filling

• In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar on medium-low speed until smooth and creamy.
• Add the egg white and mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the filling runny.
• Set aside while preparing the cake batter.

3. Preparing the Cake Batter

• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
• Using a hand mixer, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This incorporates air, ensuring a soft texture.
• Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined.
• Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and sour cream to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed to prevent overmixing.

4. Assembling the Cake

• Spread the cake batter evenly into the prepared pan.
• Pour the cream cheese filling over the batter and spread gently with a spatula.
• Evenly distribute the raspberries over the filling.

5. Making the Streusel Topping

• In a bowl, mix sugar and flour.
• Add the chilled butter cubes and mix with a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Sprinkle the streusel over the raspberries.

6. Baking the Cake

• Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake (not the filling) comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then run a knife around the edges and release the springform.

Beginner Baking Tips for Success

1. How to Tell If the Cake is Done
   • Insert a toothpick into the cake layer (not the filling). If it comes out with a few crumbs, it’s done.
   • The cheesecake layer should be set, but slightly jiggly in the center—it will firm up as it cools.
2. Avoid Overmixing
   • Overmixing the batter will develop too much gluten, making the cake dense. Mix only until ingredients are combined.
3. How to Prevent a Soggy Cake
   • Make sure the raspberries are completely dry before adding them. Excess moisture can make the cake soggy.
4. What to Do If the Streusel Melts
   • If the butter in the streusel is too soft, refrigerate it for 10 minutes before sprinkling.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Best enjoyed warm or at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey.

Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze slices wrapped in plastic for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try This Recipe

Baking can be intimidating, but this Raspberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake is simple, foolproof, and incredibly rewarding. With layers of buttery cake, creamy filling, and a crisp crumble, it’s a bakery-quality dessert made in your own kitchen.

If you try this recipe, share your experience in the comments! Did you make any substitutions? Did you serve it warm or chilled? Let’s bake together and create something delicious.