Posted on May 10, 2023

If you're a fan of sweet, indulgent baked goods, you've likely heard of both crumb cake and coffee cake. While these two desserts may seem similar at first glance, there are actually some key differences that set them apart. 

In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at crumb cake vs. coffee cake, including its origins, ingredients, and flavors.

What is Crumb Cake?

Crumb cake is a beloved classic dessert that originated in Germany. It consists of a layer of cake topped with a thick layer of crumbly streusel made from flour, sugar, and butter. The streusel is often spiced with cinnamon and other warm spices, giving the cake a cozy, comforting flavor. Crumb cake is typically served as a breakfast or brunch pastry, but it's also a popular dessert option.

Ingredients

The main ingredients in crumb cake are flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and baking powder.

Some recipes may also include milk or sour cream to create a moist, tender cake. The streusel topping is made from flour, sugar, and butter, and can also include cinnamon, nutmeg, or other spices.

Flavors

Crumb cake is known for its warm, comforting flavor, thanks to the addition of cinnamon and other spices. However, there are many variations of crumb cake that incorporate other flavors, such as apple, blueberry, or chocolate.

Serving Suggestions

Crumb cake is often served as a breakfast or brunch pastry, paired with a cup of coffee or tea. It can also be served as a dessert, either on its own or topped with whipped cream or ice cream.

Related: How To Store Your Crumb Cake To Keep It Fresh for Longer

What is Coffee Cake?

Coffee cake is another classic baked good that's often associated with breakfast or brunch. Like crumb cake, it's made from a layer of cake topped with a sweet streusel topping. However, coffee cake typically includes additional flavorings, such as nuts, fruit, or spices.

Ingredients

The main ingredients in coffee cake are flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and baking powder. Coffee cake often includes additional ingredients, such as nuts, fruit, or chocolate chips, to add texture and flavor. The streusel topping is made from flour, sugar, and butter, and can also include cinnamon, nutmeg, or other spices.

Flavors

Because coffee cake often includes additional ingredients like fruit or nuts, it can have a wider range of flavors than crumb cake. Popular variations include blueberry, raspberry, and apple.

Serving Suggestions

Coffee cake is often served as a breakfast or brunch pastry, paired with a cup of coffee or tea. It can also be served as a dessert, either on its own or topped with whipped cream or ice cream.

Differences Between Crumb Cake and Coffee Cake

While crumb cake and coffee cake are similar in many ways, there are some key differences that set them apart. In this section, we'll take a closer look at some of these differences.

Topping

One of the most noticeable differences between crumb cake and coffee cake is the topping. Crumb cake features a thick layer of streusel on top of the cake, while coffee cake often has a thinner layer of streusel with additional nuts or fruit. The streusel on crumb cake is typically made from flour, sugar, and butter, and it can also include warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This creates a sweet, crumbly topping that complements the tender cake perfectly.

In contrast, the streusel on coffee cake is often more sparse, with a thinner layer that may include additional ingredients like nuts, fruit, or chocolate chips. This can create a more complex flavor profile and add additional texture to the cake. Coffee cake toppings can also be more varied than those on crumb cake, with different combinations of ingredients used to create unique and delicious flavors.

Texture

Another difference between crumb cake and coffee cake is the texture. Crumb cake typically has a denser, more tender texture than coffee cake. This is due in part to the thick layer of streusel on top, which can create a more substantial and satisfying bite. The cake itself is also typically moist and rich, with a delicate crumb that melts in your mouth.

Coffee cake, on the other hand, often has a lighter, fluffier texture. The cake itself is typically less dense than crumb cake, and the addition of nuts or fruit in the topping can create a slightly crunchy texture that contrasts with the soft cake. This can make coffee cake a good choice for those who prefer a lighter dessert that's not as rich or heavy as crumb cake.

Flavor

While both crumb cake and coffee cake can be spiced with cinnamon or other warm spices, crumb cake is known for its cozy, comforting flavor. The thick layer of streusel on top adds a sweet, buttery flavor that complements the tender cake perfectly. The cinnamon and other spices in the streusel create a warm, inviting aroma and flavor that's perfect for a chilly morning or a cozy afternoon.

Coffee cake often includes additional flavors, such as fruit or nuts, which can make it a more complex dessert. The fruit or nuts in the topping can add a sweet, tangy, or nutty flavor that contrasts with the cake. This can create a dessert that's more interesting and varied than crumb cake, with different flavors and textures in every bite.

Serving

Another difference between crumb cake and coffee cake is the way they're served. Crumb cake is often served as a square or rectangular slice, with the thick layer of streusel on top. This creates a beautiful, rustic presentation that's perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch. Coffee cake, on the other hand, can be served in various shapes, such as round or bundt. This can create a more elegant and sophisticated presentation that's perfect for a special occasion or a more formal event.

Origins

Finally, crumb cake and coffee cake have different origins. Crumb cake has its roots in Germany, where it's known as "streuselkuchen". It's been a popular dessert in Germany for centuries, and it's now a beloved classic in many parts of the world. Coffee cake, on the other hand, is a more general term used to describe any cake that's typically served with coffee. It's been a popular dessert in the United States since the 19th century, and it's now a staple of breakfast and brunch menus across the country.

Crumb Cake vs. Coffee Cake – Which is Better?

If you're trying to decide between crumb cake and coffee cake, it really comes down to personal preference. If you're in the mood for a cozy, comforting dessert, crumb cake is the way to go. If you're looking for a more complex flavor profile, coffee cake is the better choice.

At Clark's Coffee Cakes, we offer a wide range of crumb cakes and coffee cakes, as well as other sweet treats like vegan muffins and bundles. Whether you're a fan of classic cinnamon streusel or you prefer something more adventurous, we're your bakery in Los Angeles.

Conclusion

While crumb cake and coffee cake may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences that set them apart. Crumb cake features a thick layer of streusel on top of a tender cake, while coffee cake often includes additional flavors like fruit or nuts. 

Regardless of which one you prefer, Clark's Coffee Cakes has a wide selection of both crumb cakes and coffee cakes, as well as other delicious baked goods. Contact us today at (661) 368-5305 or email us at [email protected] to place an order or learn more about our offerings!