Did you know that LAUSD served over half a million students every day during the 1960s, and their coffee cake became a favorite treat for generations? This nostalgic coffee cake was more than just a snack — it was a symbol of community, comfort, and a small slice of joy during the school day. Today, you can recreate that same comforting taste of yesteryear right in your own kitchen.
LAUSD Coffee Cake Recipe
LAUSD Coffee Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (2)
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar for topping
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for topping
Instructions
Prepare Oven and Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Make Crumb Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until well combined. Add the vegetable oil and mix until the texture resembles wet sand. Set aside 1 cup of this crumb mixture for later use.
Prepare Batter:
- In another mixing bowl, mix the baking soda and buttermilk until well combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and whisk until smooth. Pour the buttermilk mixture into the remaining crumb mixture and mix until just combined.
Pour Batter:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add Crumb Topping: Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the top of the batter.
Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the crumb topping.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the coffee cake to cool in the baking dish for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
Calories: 320 | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 200mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 25g
Possible Variations:
To make this classic LAUSD coffee cake even more exciting, you can add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb mixture for a nutty crunch. You could also add a touch of nutmeg to the topping for an extra layer of spice. For those who love a richer flavor, substitute half of the vegetable oil with melted butter.
Storing:
Store any leftover LAUSD coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze individual slices wrapped tightly for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat slightly before enjoying.
Health Benefits:
While the LAUSD coffee cake is a delightful treat, it also offers some beneficial elements. The use of cinnamon not only gives a warm flavor but also provides antioxidants and potential blood sugar regulation benefits. Using buttermilk in the batter adds a dose of calcium and probiotics, which are good for bone health and digestion.
Conclusion:
This LAUSD coffee cake is a true blast from the past, bringing back comforting memories of school days gone by. With its simple ingredients and delightful cinnamon flavor, it’s perfect for sharing over a cup of coffee with family and friends. Enjoy baking this timeless classic and savor every bite of nostalgia!