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Lemon Cream Cheese Coffee Cake

Lemon Cream Cheese Coffee Cake: A Fresh Brunch Treat

This Lemon Cream Cheese Coffee Cake combines bright lemon flavor with a creamy filling, perfect for brunch gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with gluten-free blend
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar Use coconut sugar for healthier option
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Add lime zest for a different flavor
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Softened, can substitute with coconut oil
  • 1 large Egg Use 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for vegan
  • 3-4 tablespoons Lemon Juice Alternately use vinegar or apple cider
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder Ensure freshness
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt Enhances sweetness
  • 3/4 cup Milk Substitute with almond milk for dairy-free
For the Cream Cheese Filling
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Use dairy-free cream cheese for vegan
For the Topping
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Adjust based on sweetness preference
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Amplifies flavor

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • Baking Pan
  • refrigerator

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and the zest of one medium lemon. Cut in 3 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Chill the topping while preparing the batter.
  2. In a mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar until smooth. Add in 1 large egg and 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, mixing until fully incorporated.
  3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. In another bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until fluffy. Add the remaining egg and 3-4 tablespoons of lemon juice. Mix dry ingredients alternately with 3/4 cup of milk.
  4. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan. Spread half of the batter evenly, spoon the cream cheese filling on top, dollop the remaining batter over, and gently spread to cover.
  5. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until edges are golden. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 5gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps. Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

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