FAVORITE COFFEE CAKE

This delightful coffee cake recipe strikes the perfect balance when it comes to sweetness. With just the right amount of sugar, it achieves a wonderful harmony of flavors without being overly sweet.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups Gold Medal Flour*

• 3/4 cup sugar

• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 3/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 cup shortening

• 3/4 cup milk

• 1 egg

Topping:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)

• 1/4 cup Gold Medal Flour

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• 3 tablespoons firm butter, cut into pieces

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a round layer pan (9x12 inches), or square pan (8x8x2 or 9x9x2 inches).

2. In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except for the Topping. Beat vigorously for about 30 seconds until well blended.

3. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.

4. For the Topping, mix brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and butter until crumbly.

5. Sprinkle the Topping mixture over the batter in the pan.

6. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Serve warm.

8. This recipe yields 9 to 12 servings.

*Note: If using Self-Rising Flour, omit baking powder and salt.