The History of Coffee Cake (2024)

A Delicious Journey Through Time

Coffee cake. Just the mention of it evokes images of cozy mornings, a steaming cup of coffee in hand, and the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the air. For foodies and home bakers alike, coffee cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a tradition, a memory, a comforting treat that brings people together. But where did this beloved confection come from? Let’s take a delightful trip through the history of coffee cake.

What is Coffee Cake?

The History of Coffee Cake (1)

Before we dive into its origins, let’s clarify what coffee cake is—and isn’t. Despite its name, coffee cake doesn’t typically contain coffee. Instead, it’s a sweet, often spiced, cake that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee. It comes in a variety of flavors, from classic cinnamon streusel to more adventurous combinations like apple custard or pecan praline. This versatile treat can be served for breakfast, brunch, or as an anytime snack.

The Origins of Coffee Cake

The true origin of coffee cake is somewhat shrouded in mystery, but we do know it has its roots in Europe. The earliest versions of coffee cake can be traced back to Germany, specifically Dresden, where sweet yeast breads called “Kaffee kuchen” were enjoyed with coffee. However, it was the Danish who popularized the idea of pairing sweet pastries with coffee, a tradition that dates back to the 17th century when coffee was first introduced to Europe.

Scandinavians were particularly fond of enjoying their coffee with sweet breads brimming with nuts, fruits, and spices. They even established designated coffee breaks, a precursor to the modern coffee break, where these treats were savored.

Evolution of Coffee Cake

The Journey to America

In the 1800s, as immigration to America increased, Dutch and German immigrants brought their beloved coffee cake recipes with them. By the 1870s, coffee cakes had become extremely popular in New York, New Jersey, and Delaware. These early American coffee cakes began to evolve from simple sweet breads into more elaborate pastries, each baker adding their unique twist to the recipe.

The History of Coffee Cake (2)

The introduction of the Bundt pan in the 1950s marked a significant milestone in the evolution of coffee cake. This innovation allowed for heavier batters and fillings to bake evenly, resulting in the familiar ring-shaped coffee cakes that we know and love today.

Modern Variations

Today, coffee cake continues to evolve, with bakers experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. At O&H Danish Bakery, we create a variety of coffee cakes inspired by our Danish heritage. Our offerings include decadent flavors like apple cinnamon and pecan custard, each made with our famous Danish pastry and topped with a crumbly, buttery streusel.

The History of Coffee Cake (3)

One of our unique creations is the Almond Custard Seven Sisters Coffee Cake. Inspired by the prominent constellation used by Danish sailors for navigation, this dessert features seven spiral rolls of flaky pastry filled with creamy almond and smooth custard.

Why You Should Indulge in Coffee Cake

Coffee cake goes beyond being delicious; it has a unique way of uniting people. Here’s why:

  • Tradition and Heritage: Coffee cake carries a rich history, connecting us to the past and our ancestors’ traditions.
  • Versatility: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, coffee cake fits seamlessly into any part of your day.
  • Community: Sharing a slice of coffee cake fosters a sense of community and togetherness, perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.

Have O&H Danish Bakery’s Coffee Cake Delivered to Your Door

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Coffee cake is more than just a treat; it's a delicious piece of history that has evolved over centuries and continents. Its ability to bring people together, whether through shared traditions or a cozy coffee break, makes it a timeless favorite.

Why not start your own coffee cake tradition today? Visit O&H Danish Bakery and explore our wide selection of coffee cakes. Even better, reach out to one of our customer service experts to discover our unique offerings and select the perfect coffee cake for your next gathering.

The History of Coffee Cake (2024)

FAQs

What is the origin of the coffee cake? ›

The true origin of coffee cake is somewhat shrouded in mystery, but we do know it has its roots in Europe. The earliest versions of coffee cake can be traced back to Germany, specifically Dresden, where sweet yeast breads called “Kaffee kuchen” were enjoyed with coffee.

What is the history of Drake's coffee cakes? ›

In 1896, Newman Drake opened the N.E. Drake Baking Company in Harlem, where he baked various types of pound cakes that quickly gained popularity locally. By 1914, he had brought in his brother, expanded the business, and was delivering cakes all around New York and Boston.

Why is it called coffee cake if it doesn't have coffee? ›

Coffee breaks as we call them now. A lot of the traditional recipes enjoyed during these breaks were given the name of coffee bread or coffee cakes based on the times they were enjoyed. And so the coffee cake was born!

Does coffee cake actually have coffee in it? ›

No, coffee cake does not taste like coffee. There is no coffee or caffeine in this cake despite its name. This streusel cake tastes like a lightly sweetened cake and oftentimes has spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

What is the real name for coffee cake? ›

Thus, it became commonplace in these countries to have a small sweet served alongside a coffee. It wasn't until 1763 before coffee cake was first mentioned, though technically even then by another name, the German “gugelhupf”.

What is the coffee cake capital of the world? ›

Cincinnati, Ohio, has been called the 'coffeecake capital of the world' by multiple food writers.

Do they still make Drake's coffee cake? ›

The one and only Drake's Coffee Cakes are there for you whenever you need them. These classic round coffee cakes are topped with a generous supply of sweet, cinnamon-flavored streusel. We're not the first to make coffee cakes, but we have made them since 1930, so we've kind of perfected them.

Did Little Debbie buy Drake's? ›

PUBLISHED: January 28, 2013 at 9:25 a.m. Bankrupt baker Hostess Brands Inc. said McKee Foods Corp. — best known for Little Debbie snack cakes — agreed to pay $27.5 million for its Drake's brand, which makes Yodels, Devil Dogs and Ring Dings.

What happened to Drake's cake? ›

Drake Baking Company, but it is now owned by McKee Foods. The company makes snack cake products such as Devil Dogs, Funny Bones, Coffee Cakes, Ring Dings, and Yodels.

Why is coffee cake called Buckle? ›

A buckle is a funny name for an old fashioned fruit studded coffee cake. Like many other desserts in the extended cobbler family buckles take their name from their appearance—grunts grunt as they cook, slumps slump when served, buckles—you guessed it—buckle.

What makes coffee cake different from cake? ›

The primary difference is in the crumbs. While coffee cake may have a small streusel on top or layered inside like a ribbon filling, crumb cake has a much thicker layer of streusel topping and is essentially half crumb, half cake.

Can I substitute oil for butter in coffee cake? ›

Yes. It won't have the added richness in terms of taste as butter, but it will actually end up being even moister than the butter cake version, and possibly even a bit more fluffier.

How are you supposed to eat coffee cake? ›

Classic Coffee Cake. A slice of this with a hot cup of coffee is all you need to slow down your day and be in the present moment.

What was coffee first called? ›

The word coffee entered the English language in 1582 via the Dutch koffie, borrowed from the Ottoman Turkish kahve (قهوه), borrowed in turn from the Arabic qahwah (قَهْوَة).

What coffee is best in cake? ›

Because espresso powder is so finely ground and concentrated, it's great for drier doughs like cookies and cakes, where you want a coffee flavor but you don't want to mess with the texture.

Where did the cake come from? ›

The origins of cake can be traced back to ancient times. The Greeks and Romans made sweet baked goods, and the Egyptians baked sweetened breads. However, it wasn't until the Middle Ages that cakes as we know them today began to emerge.

What is the cake and coffee tradition? ›

"Kaffee und kuchen" (coffee and cake) is an afternoon ritual where friends, family, or coworkers will meet for an hour or two to enjoy coffee, cake, and socializing. Shortly after coffee was introduced to Germany in 1675, coffee houses began to spring up in places like Hamburg, Bremen, and Hanover.

What is the origin of the coffee ceremony? ›

But in Ethiopia and Eritrea, coffee is the centerpiece of an elegant ceremony meant to be shared with family and guests over several hours. Coffee originated in Ethiopia, with popular lore pointing to a goatherd who saw his flock frolicking after eating raw coffee berries.

What is coffee and cake slang for? ›

A trivial amount of money ; peanuts .

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