Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) coffee cake is more than just a sweet treat; it symbolizes its community and is a cherished memory for many Angelenos. With its comforting flavor and simple yet rich history, this coffee cake has become a classic recipe that’s enjoyed far beyond the walls of school cafeterias.
Delicious LAUSD Coffee Cake Recipe to Brighten Your Day
Course: Dessert, RecipesCuisine: GermanyDifficulty: Easy15
servings15
minutes25
minutes437
kcalCreating the perfect LAUSD coffee cake in your kitchen is easier than you might think. To bake a batch that’s as good as the ones you remember, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ingredients
For the cake batter:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
One tablespoon of baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup vegetable oil
Two eggs
1 cup milk
For the crumb topping:
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
One tablespoon of ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons milk or water
- The quantity of the crumb topping is enough for a generous sprinkle. The sweetness can be adjusted to personal taste.
Directions
- Step 1: Prepare the Crumb Topping
Combine the flour, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Pour the melted butter over the mixture and stir until it’s all combined. The crumbs should be moist but still crumbly. - Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk together the oil, eggs, and milk in a separate bowl. Add the wet ingredients to the dry, and mix just until combined. - Step 3: Assemble the Cake
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease and flour a 13×9-inch baking pan. Pour the batter into the pan and spread it out evenly. Top with the prepared crumb topping, spreading it out to the edges of the batter in an even layer. - Step 4: Bake
Bake the coffee cake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes clean. Remove from the oven and cool. - Step 5: Add the Glaze
Make the glaze while the cake is cooling by whisking the powdered sugar and milk or water until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled coffee cake.
Recipe Video
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History and Significance
While the LAUSD coffee cake may not have a single starting point, it has become a staple in the city, feeding generations of students and leaving an enduring mark on the community. The recipe’s origins are as rich and varied as the city it has served, with flavors that resonate far beyond the realm of the school cafeteria.
This coffee cake has transcended its role as a school-time treat and has become a cultural icon beloved by students, staff, and parents alike. Its simple ingredients and unmistakable flavor create a sense of nostalgia that’s hard to replicate. For many, it evokes memories of morning bake sales, impromptu classroom celebrations, and the delicious aroma that once filled the school hallways.
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Taste and Texture Profile
The LAUSD coffee cake boasts a delightfully moist and tender texture with a rich, buttery crumb topping that pairs perfectly with your favorite brew. The cake has just the right amount of sweetness to complement the rich flavor of the coffee, and the crumb topping adds a layer of crunchy, cinnamon-spiced decadence.
When served fresh, the cake is warm and inviting, a perfect centerpiece for gatherings big and small. It can stand alone as a tasty breakfast or be included in a lavish brunch spread. For extra indulgence, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
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Variations and Customizations
The beauty of a classic recipe like the LAUSD coffee cake is its versatility. You can add your twist to the cake to create variations that suit your palate or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Fruit-Infused Cake: Add a cup of fresh berries or diced apples to the batter before baking for a fruity flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Mix chopped pecans or almonds into the crumb topping for a nutty upgrade that adds texture and taste.
- Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the cake batter and a squeeze of lemon juice to the glaze for a refreshing zing.
- Gluten-Free or Vegan Options: Substitute gluten-free flour for a wheat-free version or utilize plant-based options like almond milk and flaxseed eggs for a vegan-friendly alternative. The result will still be delicious!
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Share the Love
Whether you’re a former LAUSD student, a fan of coffee cake, or just curious to try this iconic recipe, there’s no denying that this simple yet delicious dessert has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. So why not share the love and pass this recipe to family and friends? Who knows, you may start a new tradition of your own.
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Community Impact
The LAUSD coffee cake recipe is more than just a delicious dessert; it’s a recipe that brings people together. Bakers across Los Angeles and beyond are united by the shared experience of preparing and enjoying this simple pleasure.
This recipe’s true power lies in fostering a sense of community. Whether you’re baking it for loved ones or gathering to share a slice with friends, this coffee cake has a way of creating connections. By baking, sharing, and enjoying it, the LAUSD coffee cake is a testament to the enduring power of good food to unite us all. So, go ahead and bake a batch of this delicious cake and share it with your community. Who knows, you might make someone’s day! So, why wait? Get baking and spread some joy with the LAUSD coffee cake. Happy baking!
Baking Tips for the Perfect LAUSD Coffee Cake
Creating the perfect LAUSD coffee cake is about enjoying the process as much as the delicious result. Here are some baking tips to ensure your coffee cake comes out flawless every time:
- Ensure Ingredients Are at Room Temperature: Ingredients like eggs and butter mix better at room temperature. This helps to create a smooth batter and a more uniform crumb in the finished cake.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix the batter until the wet and dry ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake because it develops too much gluten.
- Use Fresh Baking Powder: Baking powder makes the cake rise and become fluffy. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results. You can test its effectiveness by mixing a teaspoon of baking powder with a 1/4 cup of hot water. If it bubbles vigorously, it’s still good.
- Spread the Crumb Topping Evenly: For that perfect layer of sweetness in every bite, evenly distribute the crumb topping over the batter. Press it lightly into the batter to ensure it sticks well and doesn’t fall off when slicing.
- Check for Doneness Correctly: Because this cake is dense and moist, it’s important to check that it’s fully cooked. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Avoid overbaking, as it can dry out the cake.
- Allow to Cool Before Glazing: To ensure the glaze sets nicely and doesn’t soak into the top, let the cake cool completely before adding the glaze. This patience will pay off in the beautiful finish of the cake.
A World Tour in Coffee Cake
Coffee cake, a beloved treat enjoyed across the globe, comes in various forms, each reflecting the unique culinary traditions of its region. Here’s a glimpse into some of the most popular varieties:
- Swedish Kaffekaka: Known for its rich yet airy texture, this Scandinavian version often incorporates cardamom, giving it a distinctive aromatic quality that pairs wonderfully with coffee.
- German Streuselkuchen: This version is famous for its thick, buttery crumb topping, which contrasts delightfully with the soft, sweet cake beneath.
- British Coffee and Walnut Cake: A classic UK treat, this cake is flavored with coffee and adorned with walnuts, offering a crunchy texture and a nutty taste.
- American Sour Cream Coffee Cake: Popular in the United States, this variety is known for its moist crumb, thanks to the addition of sour cream and a cinnamon-infused crumb topping.
Each of these coffee cakes offers a unique taste experience, rooted in the culture and traditions of its homeland, making coffee cake not just a delicious snack but also a voyage of culinary discovery.
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Conclusion
The LAUSD coffee cake recipe resonates with countless individuals, each with a story of connection to this iconic treat. By making this recipe a part of your culinary repertoire, you are joining a community that values tradition and the simple joys of home baking.
We encourage you to try this recipe, savor the flavors, and share the experience with others. Whether a morning indulgence with your household or a virtual bake-off with friends, the LAUSD coffee cake will brighten your day and create warm, lasting memories. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy one of Los Angeles’s most beloved recipes—you might find that it becomes a staple in your home, too.
Remember to engage with the LA food community by sharing your creations on social media and tagging your local food enthusiasts. Get involved in the conversation about LA’s baking heritage, and continue to spread the sweetness of this iconic coffee cake with others. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the LAUSD Coffee Cake Recipe
Q1: Can I make the LAUSD coffee cake ahead of time?
A1: Absolutely! This cake keeps well for several days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can freeze it for up to 3 months, ensuring you have a delicious treat whenever the craving strikes.
Q2: How can I ensure my coffee cake is moist and tender?
A2: The key to a moist and tender coffee cake is keeping the batter the same. Mix just until the dry and wet ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a tougher cake texture.
Q3: Is there a dairy-free alternative for this recipe?
A3: Yes, you can easily make this coffee cake dairy-free by using plant-based butter and a dairy-free milk alternative, such as almond milk or oat milk, in both the cake and the glaze.
Q4: Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
A4: While the recipe calls for all-purpose flour, you can substitute it with an equal amount of gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version. The texture may vary slightly, but the cake will still be delicious.
Q5: What’s the best way to serve the LAUSD coffee cake?
A5: This coffee cake tastes fantastic when served warm, especially with coffee or tea. If you’re serving it as a dessert, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.
Q6: How can I add a personal touch to this recipe?
A6: Feel free to experiment with add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or a swirl of fruit preserves to make this recipe your own. Remember, baking is all about creativity and creating something that delights you and your loved ones.
