If you grew up in Los Angeles and went to schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), you probably remember the classic LAUSD coffee cake, which was the highlight of recess or lunchtime. This coffee cake holds a particular place in the hearts of many people, having been a mainstay in school cafeterias since its inception in 1954. It was a highly anticipated moment of the school day for many kids, including myself, when I attended El Camino Real High School and Hughes Junior High in Woodland Hills, California. Today, I’m excited to share this vintage recipe, which will allow you to duplicate this favorite dessert in your own home.

History of LAUSD Coffee Cake

The LAUSD coffee cake is more than simply a treat; it’s part of Los Angeles history. Introduced in 1954, this coffee cake rapidly became a popular among children around the district. Its distinct flavor, typified by the ideal balance of cinnamon and nutmeg, combined with a crumbly topping, made it a must-have during school breaks. The recipe’s ongoing success reflects its simplicity and timeless charm. For many people, just one bite transports them back to their carefree childhood.

Ingredients for LAUSD Coffee Cake

To make this classic coffee cake, you will need the following ingredients:

For the cake

• 2 ½ cup all-purpose flour.
• 1 cup packed brown sugar.
• 1 cup granulated sugar.
• 1 teaspoon salt.
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (fresh nutmeg is essential for having that real flavor)

For the crumble topping

Add ½ cup of the dry ingredient combination (from above).

1 teaspoon of cinnamon.

For the wet ingredients

• 1 cup buttermilk.
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda.
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.

Lausd coffee cake recipe

To make the LAUSD Coffee Cake

Mix the dry ingredients

Combine the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and freshly grated nutmeg in a large mixing basin. Freshly grated nutmeg greatly improves the flavor, so take the time to grate it thoroughly. After combining, reserve half a cup of the mixture for the crumble topping.

To make the Crumble Topping

Combine the dry ingredients and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set this aside; it will be your lovely crumb topping.

In a separate dish

Whisk together the buttermilk, baking soda, and cinnamon. To avoid splashing, use a firm hand while whisking and make sure everything is well blended.

To combine and pour

Gradually add wet components to dry ingredients, mixing until just incorporated. Be cautious not to overmix the batter; you want it to be light and fluffy. Once blended, transfer the batter to a prepared baking pan.

To add the crumble topping, sprinkle equally over the batter.

To bake the cake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. As the aroma enters your kitchen, it will remind you of your school days.

To serve

let the cake cool in its pan before cutting it into squares. This is an important step—cutting it too soon may cause the cake to break. Once chilled, place it on a sheet of wax paper, much like it used to be in the school cafeteria.

Serving Suggestions

The LAUSD coffee cake is best served with coffee, tea, or milk. It makes a great breakfast, lunchtime snack, or nostalgic dessert. Whether you enjoy it alone or with loved ones, this coffee cake is sure to put a smile on your face and warm your heart.

Tips for Making It Tastier

Use fresh nutmeg. For a more vibrant and authentic flavour, grate fresh nutmeg.

Full-fat buttermilk yields a richer, moister cake.

Extra Cinnamon: For a spicier flavour, add an extra pinch of cinnamon to both the batter and the topping.

Browned Butter: To add depth of flavour, replace ordinary butter with browned butter.

Crumble Topping: Increase the crumble topping for a more decadent experience.

Topping Suggestions

Drizzle a simple cream cheese glaze over the cake to add more sweetness.

Chopped Nuts: For a crunchier crumble topping, add chopped walnuts or pecans.

Powdered Sugar: Dust lightly with powdered sugar for a traditional touch.

Top with fresh berries for a pop of colour and flavour.

Drizzle with caramel sauce for a delicious finish.

Healthy alternatives

Whole Wheat Flour: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase fibre.

Greek yoghurt can be used instead of buttermilk to improve protein levels.

Coconut sugar has a lower glycaemic index than granulated sugar.

Applesauce: Replace part of the butter with unsweetened applesauce to minimise fat.

Stevia: To reduce the amount of sugar, use a natural sweetener such as stevia.

Pairing Beverages

Coffee is a classic match that accentuates the flavours of coffee cake.

Tea: For a cosy combo, pair with Earl Grey or Chai.

Hot chocolate is a great winter treat with additional sweetness.

Milk: Simple and nostalgic, much like in the school cafeteria.

Almond Milk: A dairy-free option that complements the cake’s flavours.

How To Store It?

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to three days.

Refrigerate for up to a week, covered securely.

Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the batter can result in a dense, difficult cake.

Cutting Too Soon: Allow the cake to cool before cutting to avoid crumbling.

Skimping on Topping: A lack of crumble topping can make the cake less flavourful.

Using Old Nutmeg: Stale nutmeg will not provide the same bright flavour.

Incorrect Baking Time: Baking too long might dry up the cake, while underbaking makes it soggy.

Related Recipes:

• Easy Pound Cake Glaze Recipe
• Easy Fricasse Cake Recipe

FAQs

Can I make the cake gluten-free? 

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend.

Is there a vegan version? 

Use a plant-based milk and butter replacement.

Can I add fruits to the batter? 

Yes, using little berries works great.

What happens if I don’t have buttermilk? 

Use a combination of milk, vinegar, or lemon juice.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply use a larger pan and adjust the baking time.

Final thoughts

The LAUSD coffee cake is more than a recipe; it’s a slice of history that brings back fond memories for many Los Angeles natives. With its basic ingredients and distinct, soothing flavours, this cake is a must-try for anybody wishing to relive childhood memories or simply enjoy a great handmade treat. Whether you make it for yourself, your family, or to share with friends, this coffee cake will add warmth and nostalgia to any occasion. Try it, and you’ll understand why this recipe has lasted the test of time.