If you have a soft spot for desserts that feel like a cozy morning hug, this Cake Mix Coffee Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s that perfect blend of moist cake, tender sour cream richness, and a delightfully crunchy cinnamon streusel topping that makes every bite utterly irresistible. Whether you’re looking for an easy brunch treat or a comforting dessert, this recipe uses simple ingredients to create classic flavors with a homemade touch that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these simple ingredients right is the secret to the perfect Cake Mix Coffee Cake Recipe. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s delivering moisture, flavor, or texture to this wonderfully easy cake.
- Yellow cake mix (15.25 oz): The base for our cake, providing structure and a lovely golden color.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds moisture and tang for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
- Large eggs (3): Help bind everything together and contribute to the cake’s richness.
- Vegetable oil (1/3 cup): Keeps the cake moist without weighing it down.
- Water (1/4 cup): Balances the batter consistency for a smooth pour.
- Brown sugar (1 cup): Mixed with cinnamon for that iconic sweet-spicy layer.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): Infuses warmth and depth into the sugar mixture.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (1/2 cup, optional): Adds a toasty crunch to the cinnamon layer.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Combined with butter for a crumbly streusel topping.
- Cold butter, cubed (2 tablespoons): Creates the perfect buttery crunch on top.
How to Make Cake Mix Coffee Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your baking dish and preheat the oven
Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to ensure your coffee cake doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly intact after baking.
Step 2: Mix the cake batter
Grab a large bowl and combine the yellow cake mix, sour cream, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, well-incorporated batter that’s free of lumps – this is the canvas for our layered masterpiece.
Step 3: Prepare the cinnamon-sugar mixture
In a smaller bowl, stir together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and optional nuts. This aromatic mixture will add unforgettable flavor and a delightful texture contrast in every slice.
Step 4: Assemble the coffee cake layers
Pour half of your batter into the greased pan and spread it evenly. Next, sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top, making sure it covers the cake batter generously. Then, pour the remaining batter gently over this layer and spread it out without disturbing the cinnamon layer underneath. Finish by sprinkling the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
Step 5: Add the streusel topping
To make the streusel, combine the flour and cold butter in a small bowl. Use a fork or your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until you have a crumbly mixture. Sprinkle this streusel topping evenly over the cake for that irresistible buttery crunch.
Step 6: Bake until golden and set
Place your assembled coffee cake in the oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the edges are beautifully golden brown. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing.
How to Serve Cake Mix Coffee Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Want to kick your coffee cake up a notch? Dust it with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk once the cake has cooled. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream are also fantastic for adding color and extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
This coffee cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it the ultimate companion for your morning or afternoon break. Serve it alongside creamy yogurt or fresh fruit salad if you want a more balanced brunch spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, slice the coffee cake into smaller squares and serve on a pretty platter with edible flowers or fresh mint leaves for a little elegance. You can also layer slices with ice cream for a decadent dessert twist that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Cake Mix Coffee Cake Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to two days, or keep it refrigerated for up to a week to enjoy later.
Freezing
If you want to keep this delicious treat longer, wrap the cooled coffee cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy your coffee cake warm, simply microwave individual slices for about 15 to 20 seconds or reheat in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10 minutes. This will bring back that fresh-baked feeling every time.
FAQs
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in this recipe?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute, providing similar moisture and tang with a slightly lighter texture. It’s a great choice if you want to reduce fat without sacrificing flavor.
Do I have to use nuts in the cinnamon-sugar layer?
Not at all. Nuts add a lovely crunch and flavor but are completely optional. If you prefer nut-free or have allergies, simply omit them and you’ll still have a delicious coffee cake.
Is this coffee cake suitable for special occasions?
Definitely! This Cake Mix Coffee Cake Recipe is versatile enough for weekday breakfasts or dressed up for brunch or holiday celebrations. The rich cinnamon streusel and buttery crumb make it feel special every time.
Can I make this coffee cake gluten-free?
You would need to use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free. The rest of the recipe stays the same – it’s a straightforward swap for those with dietary needs.
How do I get the best streusel topping?
Use cold butter and work it quickly into the flour with your fingers or fork until it’s crumbly. This creates pockets of butter that melt during baking, resulting in that perfect crisp, buttery streusel texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a simple yet show-stopping dessert or a delightful breakfast treat, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Cake Mix Coffee Cake Recipe. It’s incredibly easy but tastes like you’ve poured love and care into every bite. Enjoy the warmth of cinnamon, the tender crumb, and that buttery topping—it’s a recipe destined to become a cherished classic in your kitchen.
Print
Cake Mix Coffee Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cake Mix Coffee Cake is a deliciously moist and tender dessert that’s perfect for brunch or a sweet snack. Made with a simple yellow cake mix combined with sour cream and a cinnamon-sugar streusel topping, it delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. The optional nuts add a delightful crunch, while the buttery streusel topping adds texture and richness. Easy to prepare and bake, this coffee cake is an ideal go-to recipe for gatherings or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
Cinnamon-Sugar Topping
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Streusel Topping
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix cake batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, sour cream, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and well blended.
- Prepare cinnamon-sugar mixture: In a separate small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped nuts if using. This will create the signature cinnamon swirl topping.
- Layer the batter and topping: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter to create a flavorful layer.
- Add remaining batter and cinnamon sugar: Pour the remaining cake batter on top of the first layer and gently spread it out. Then sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar topping evenly over the top.
- Make streusel topping: In another small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and cold cubed butter. Use a fork or your fingers to blend them until the mixture becomes crumbly and resembles coarse crumbs.
- Top the cake: Sprinkle the crumbly streusel evenly over the top of the assembled cake layers to add a buttery, textured finish.
- Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let the coffee cake cool slightly before slicing and serving. Optionally, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream as a healthier or alternative option.
- For a richer flavor, drizzle the cooled cake with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with a little milk.
- Chopped nuts are optional but add a nice crunch; you can omit them for a nut-free version.
- Make sure the butter is cold when making the streusel topping to get a crumbly texture.
