Name: Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 3/4 cup light brown sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, finely chopped; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup light brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional); 8 ounces sour cream, at room temperature; 2/3 cup neutral oil (such as vegetable or avocado oil); 1/4 cup whole milk, at room temperature; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips (for batter); 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (for topping)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a cake that’s the perfect blend of cozy, sweet, and chocolatey, you’ve just found your next baking obsession! Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake is the ultimate treat for breakfast, brunch, or those lovely afternoon snack cravings. This recipe is irresistibly tender—and every bite surprises you with melty chocolate chips and a buttery, crunchy topping. Did you know coffee cake isn’t typically flavored with coffee? It’s simply meant to be savored with your favorite cup of joe! I love how this cake comes together using simple pantry staples and can easily feed a crowd, making it a family favorite in my home. If you’ve already enjoyed my One-Bowl Banana Bread, you’ll appreciate how effortless—and delicious—this chocolate chip version is. Ready for some chocolate chip magic? Let’s bake it up!

What is Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake?

So, what exactly is Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake? Spoiler alert: You won’t find a drop of coffee in the actual cake! Instead, the magic is in the moist, tender cake filled with rich chocolate chips and topped with a nutty, cinnamon-spiced crumb. Ever wonder why it’s called coffee cake if there’s no coffee in sight? It’s because it’s the perfect companion to your morning mug! As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—and trust me, this cake is sure to win over anyone at the breakfast table. Feeling inspired? Grab your apron and let’s make some kitchen memories together!

Why You’ll Love This

First, the highlight: Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake boasts a moist, tender crumb with a buttery, cinnamon-nut streusel and gooey pockets of melty chocolate in every bite. It’s pure breakfast comfort and dessert-worthy decadence all in one!

Next, the cost-saving benefits: Skip the overpriced bakery treats and whip up this crowd-pleasing cake at home for a fraction of the price. Most ingredients are pantry staples, and you can tailor the nuts or chocolate chips to suit your tastes or budget.

Third, the flavors: The combination of crunchy, toasty walnuts or pecans, sweet chocolate chips, and a hint of cinnamon is simply irresistible. Drizzle it with a little glaze, or just enjoy as is—either way, you’re in for a treat. If you enjoy my Classic Streusel Coffee Cake, this chocolate chip version will become your new go-to.

So, are you ready to treat yourself? Dive in and bake a slice of chocolate-filled happiness today!

How to Make

Quick Overview

Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few bowls and even fewer steps. With a simple batter and a quick-mix topping, you’ll have a fluffy, moist cake sparkling with chocolate chips and crunchy nuts in every forkful. The prep takes about 20 minutes, and baking adds about 40–45 minutes, so you can go from craving to enjoying a slice in just about an hour. Perfect for weekend brunches or spontaneous sweet cravings!

Ingredients

5 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
3/4 cup light brown sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, finely chopped
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/2 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional)
8 ounces sour cream, at room temperature
2/3 cup neutral oil (such as vegetable or avocado oil)
1/4 cup whole milk, at room temperature
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips (for batter)

Step-by-Step

Prepare the Streusel Topping
In a medium bowl, mix together the cold, cubed butter, 3/4 cup light brown sugar, 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon. Use a fork or pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped walnuts or pecans and 1 cup chocolate chips. Set aside.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 1/2 cup light brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and optional espresso powder.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, oil, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Make the Batter
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together with a spatula or wooden spoon just until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix.
Add the Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in 3/4 cup chocolate chips. The batter will be thick.
Layer and Assemble
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch pan (or similar size). Spread half the batter evenly into the pan, sprinkle half the streusel topping over it, then spoon the remaining batter on top, gently spreading it. Top with the rest of the streusel.
Bake
Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few melty chocolate streaks are fine). If the top is browning too fast, loosely tent with foil.
Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes. Cut into squares, serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!

What to Serve Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake With

Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake is a treat all on its own, but it sings when paired with the right sides. Serve slices with piping hot coffee, a foamy cappuccino, or a glass of ice-cold milk for pure comfort. For brunch, add a fruit salad, Greek yogurt, or scrambled eggs to round out the meal. For a dessert feel, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce will elevate it into something truly decadent.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Use room temperature eggs, sour cream, and milk for a smooth batter and even baking.
Don’t overmix—stir just until combined to avoid a tough cake.
Swap in dark or milk chocolate chips, or use chopped chocolate bars for even gooier results.
Not a fan of nuts? Leave them out, or substitute with shredded coconut for a twist.
To avoid overbaking, check on the cake at the 35-minute mark and tent with foil if necessary.
Add a pinch more cinnamon or try a dash of nutmeg for a warm, spicy kick.
Use good-quality chocolate chips for maximum flavor payoff.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake stays moist for up to three days at room temperature when covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate up to five days. To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole cake securely and store for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then let come to room temperature, or warm slices gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld and the crumb softens.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes! Greek yogurt is a great substitute—just use full-fat for the best texture.

Do I have to include nuts?
Not at all. Feel free to omit the nuts or replace them with more chocolate chips or even a sprinkling of shredded coconut.

How do I know when the cake is done?
Check for a golden-brown top and insert a toothpick in the center—a few moist crumbs and melted chocolate are fine, but there should be no wet batter.

Can I double this recipe?
You sure can! Double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Baking time may increase slightly, so keep an eye on it in the oven.

Conclusion

Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake is the perfect marriage of tender crumb, melty chocolate, and cozy cinnamon-nutty crunch. Whether you’re enjoying it with a leisurely breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a sweet finish to a meal, this simple recipe is sure to become a household favorite. With everyday ingredients, quick prep, and irresistible flavor, there’s no reason not to treat yourself and your loved ones. Remember to check out other delicious coffee cake and breakfast recipes on the blog. Ready to fill your kitchen with the scent of freshly baked goodness? Preheat your oven and let’s get baking!