Creating this delightful Cream Coffee Cake involves layering rich flavors with simple steps. Follow this guide to ensure your baking success:

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.

2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.

3. Add Eggs and Sour Cream: Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the sour cream and vanilla extract until well incorporated.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

6. Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside.

7. Prepare Streusel Topping: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped nuts (if using). Mix until combined.

8. Layer the Batter: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread the cream cheese filling on top, then sprinkle a portion of the streusel.

9. Add Remaining Batter: Gently spoon the rest of the batter on top, spreading it evenly.

10. Top with Streusel: Finally, add the remaining streusel topping for that crunch.

11. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

12. Cool: Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

This step-by-step guide provides a clear pathway to creating the heavenly Cream Coffee Cake.