We’ve all been there – craving a warm slice of coffee cake but dreading the thought of measuring countless ingredients and spending hours in the kitchen. That’s where our coffee cake from cake mix recipe comes to the rescue! This brilliant shortcut transforms a simple boxed cake mix into a bakery-worthy treat that’ll have your family thinking you’re a baking genius.
Coffee cake doesn’t have to be complicated to taste incredible. By starting with a quality cake mix and adding our secret blend of cinnamon, brown sugar, and butter, we create that perfect crumbly topping and tender cake that makes coffee cake so irresistible. The best part? You’ll have this beauty ready for the oven in just 15 minutes.
Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or need a quick dessert for unexpected guests, this easy coffee cake recipe delivers consistent results every time. We’re sharing all our tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly moist with that signature streusel topping that makes every bite pure comfort food bliss.
Ingredients
We’ve carefully selected simple ingredients that transform an ordinary cake mix into an extraordinary coffee cake. These pantry staples work together to create layers of flavor and texture that make this recipe irresistible.
For the Cake
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Streusel Topping
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the Glaze
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Equipment Needed
We need several essential tools to create this delicious coffee cake from cake mix successfully. Our kitchen setup should include both basic and specialized equipment to ensure smooth preparation and perfect results.
Baking Equipment
- Oven capable of reaching 350°F (175°C)
- 9-inch square or 9×13-inch baking pan (greased)
- Toothpick or skewer for checking doneness
Mixing and Preparation Tools
- Large mixing bowl for combining cake batter
- Medium mixing bowl for streusel preparation
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient portions
- Spoon or spatula for mixing ingredients
- Whisk or electric mixer (optional for smoother batter consistency)
Food Preparation Equipment
- Knife and cutting board for chopping pecans or walnuts
- Rubber spatula for spreading batter evenly
| Equipment Type | Essential Items | Optional Items |
|---|---|---|
| Baking | Oven, baking pan, toothpick | None |
| Mixing | Large bowl, measuring tools, spoon | Electric mixer, whisk |
| Preparation | Knife, cutting board | Rubber spatula |
We recommend having all equipment ready before starting since this recipe moves quickly once we begin mixing. The 9×13-inch pan works best for feeding larger groups while the 9-inch square pan creates a thicker cake perfect for smaller gatherings. Our mixing bowls should be large enough to accommodate all ingredients without spillage during the layering process.
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create our delicious coffee cake from cake mix. We’ll guide you through each stage to ensure perfect results every time.
Prep the Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) while you prepare the other components. Grease your chosen baking pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. We recommend using a 9-inch square pan for smaller gatherings or a 9×13-inch pan for larger groups. Position the oven rack in the center for even baking throughout the cake.
Make the Streusel Topping
Remove ⅔ cup of cake mix from the box and place it in a medium bowl. Add the melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped pecans to the reserved cake mix. Mix all ingredients together until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with a sandy texture. This streusel will create both the middle layer and the delicious crunchy topping that makes our coffee cake irresistible.
Prepare the Cake Batter
Combine the remaining cake mix with the instant vanilla pudding mix in a large mixing bowl. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the sour cream, vegetable oil, warm water, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until smooth and well combined, ensuring no lumps remain. The sour cream adds exceptional moisture and tenderness to our final cake.
Assemble the Coffee Cake
Pour half of the prepared batter into your greased baking pan and spread it evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle half of the streusel mixture over this first layer of batter. Add the remaining cake batter on top and smooth it out carefully with a spatula. Finish by distributing the remaining streusel topping evenly across the surface, gently pressing it down to help it adhere during baking.
Bake the Coffee Cake
Place the assembled cake in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. The cake is ready when the toothpick comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before glazing or serving to prevent the layers from falling apart.
Make the Glaze
Whisk together the powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth and lump-free. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor profile. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker coating. The glaze should drizzle easily but not be too runny.
Finish and Serve
Drizzle the prepared glaze over the cooled coffee cake in decorative patterns or cover the entire surface. Slice the cake into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. Our coffee cake pairs perfectly with freshly brewed coffee or tea for the ultimate breakfast or brunch experience. Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to three days.
Make-Ahead Instructions
We love that this coffee cake from cake mix recipe offers excellent flexibility for busy schedules and entertaining. Baking this delicious treat one to two days ahead of time actually enhances the flavors as they meld together.
Baking Ahead Timeline:
| Timeline | Storage Method | Texture Quality |
|---|---|---|
| 1 day ahead | Room temperature | Optimal moisture |
| 2 days ahead | Refrigerated | Maintains excellent texture |
| 3 days ahead | Airtight container | Good quality retained |
We recommend storing the completely cooled coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to serve it within 24 hours. The cake maintains its moist texture beautifully during this time frame.
For longer storage up to two days we suggest refrigerating the cake in its airtight container. This method preserves the tender crumb while preventing any moisture loss that could affect the overall quality.
Reheating Instructions:
We find that gently reheating individual slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds brings back that fresh-from-the-oven warmth. Alternatively we can warm the entire cake in a 300°F oven for 5 to 8 minutes if serving a group.
The streusel topping retains its delightful texture even after storage making this make-ahead option particularly appealing for brunch gatherings or special occasions.
Glaze Application Tips:
We recommend adding the glaze just before serving rather than before storage. This approach ensures the glaze maintains its beautiful appearance and doesn’t absorb into the cake during storage. Simply prepare the glaze fresh and drizzle it over the cake right before presenting it to guests.
Storage Tips
Our coffee cake from cake mix maintains its delicious flavor and moist texture when stored properly. We recommend covering the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out and losing its signature softness.
Room Temperature Storage
We can keep our coffee cake at room temperature for up to three days when wrapped securely. This method works best for cakes we plan to enjoy within a few days of baking.
Refrigerator Storage
For longer storage, we place our tightly covered coffee cake in the refrigerator where it stays fresh for about one week. The cool temperature helps preserve the cake’s moisture while extending its shelf life significantly.
Freezing Instructions
We freeze our coffee cake when we want to prepare it weeks in advance or preserve leftovers for future enjoyment. The process requires cooling the cake completely before wrapping it in two layers of plastic wrap. We then place the wrapped cake in a zip-top freezer bag to prevent freezer burn and maintain optimal freshness for up to three months.
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 3 days | 68-72°F |
| Refrigerated | 1 week | 35-38°F |
| Frozen | 3 months | 0°F |
Thawing Process
We thaw our frozen coffee cake overnight in the refrigerator before serving. This gradual thawing method preserves the cake’s texture and prevents condensation from making it soggy.
Glaze Considerations
We add the glaze just before serving to maintain its appearance and prevent it from being absorbed into the cake during storage. Unglazed portions store better and allow us to refresh the presentation when ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
We recommend serving this coffee cake at room temperature for the best texture and flavor experience. The cake tastes most delicious when allowed to rest for at least 30 minutes after baking, giving the flavors time to meld together beautifully.
Temperature and Timing
Warm servings create an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen with cinnamon and vanilla notes. Room temperature portions allow the moist crumb to shine through while maintaining the perfect balance between the tender cake and crunchy streusel topping.
Perfect Pairings
Coffee creates the ideal accompaniment to this breakfast treat, with the bitter notes complementing the sweet cinnamon filling. Tea lovers will find that Earl Grey or English Breakfast varieties enhance the cake’s vanilla undertones. Hot chocolate offers a cozy alternative for those seeking a richer beverage pairing.
Presentation Options
Plain slices showcase the beautiful layers and marbled appearance of the cinnamon swirl. Powdered sugar dusting adds an elegant touch for special occasions or brunches. Fresh berries provide a colorful contrast and slight tartness that balances the sweetness.
Serving Occasions
Morning gatherings benefit from this cake’s quick preparation time and impressive presentation. Afternoon tea services welcome the comfort food appeal of this homestyle dessert. Holiday brunches feature this recipe as a crowd-pleasing centerpiece that requires minimal effort.
Portion Considerations
Standard servings work well at 3-inch squares for the 9×13-inch pan. Smaller 2-inch portions suit lighter appetites or when serving multiple desserts. Generous slices satisfy hearty breakfast appetites and coffee shop-style presentations.
Recipe Variations
Our basic coffee cake recipe serves as the perfect foundation for countless delicious variations. We love experimenting with different flavors and add-ins to create unique treats that suit any occasion.
Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake
We start this classic variation by creating a rich cinnamon sugar filling that transforms our basic cake into something extraordinary. The filling combines brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor depth. We layer half the cake batter in our prepared pan before sprinkling the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly across the surface. The remaining batter goes on top, followed by our signature streusel topping enhanced with extra cinnamon. This creates beautiful layers of flavor that complement coffee perfectly. We bake this variation at 350°F for 45-55 minutes until golden brown and serve it warm to showcase the aromatic cinnamon throughout.
Blueberry Coffee Cake
Fresh or frozen blueberries add a burst of fruity sweetness to our coffee cake base. We gently fold 1 cup of blueberries into the prepared cake batter, being careful not to overmix and break the berries. A touch of lemon zest brightens the overall flavor profile and enhances the blueberry taste. Our streusel topping for this variation includes chopped pecans for textural contrast against the soft berries. We recommend using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in the batter to keep the cake extra moist while providing subtle tang. The baking time remains the same, though we check for doneness with a toothpick to ensure the berries haven’t added too much moisture.
Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake
Rich chocolate chips elevate our coffee cake into an indulgent dessert that satisfies any sweet tooth. We mix 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips directly into the cake batter for even distribution throughout each slice. The chocolate pairs beautifully with our cinnamon streusel topping, creating a flavor combination that appeals to both coffee and chocolate lovers. We sometimes add mini chocolate chips to the streusel topping itself for extra chocolate intensity. This variation maintains the same moist texture as our original recipe while providing bursts of melted chocolate in every bite. The baking process remains unchanged, and we serve this version slightly warm to showcase the melted chocolate chips.
Conclusion
This coffee cake from cake mix recipe proves that homemade doesn’t have to be complicated. We’ve shown you how to transform a simple boxed mix into a bakery-worthy treat that’ll impress your family and friends.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and convenience. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or need a quick dessert solution we’ve got you covered. The combination of moist cake tender crumb and irresistible streusel topping creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
With make-ahead options multiple variations and foolproof storage tips you’re equipped to make this coffee cake your go-to recipe. We’re confident that once you try this easy approach you’ll never go back to complicated from-scratch versions.
So grab your favorite coffee mug and enjoy every delicious bite of this comforting homemade treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to prepare this coffee cake?
This coffee cake recipe is incredibly quick and easy to prepare. The entire preparation process takes just 15 minutes from start to finish before placing it in the oven. This makes it perfect for last-minute desserts or when you need a delicious treat for unexpected guests.
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes, this coffee cake is perfect for make-ahead preparation. You can bake it one to two days in advance, which actually enhances the flavors. Store it covered at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to one week. Add the glaze just before serving for the best appearance.
What ingredients do I need for this coffee cake?
The recipe requires a box of yellow cake mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, warm water, and vanilla extract. For the streusel topping, you’ll need flour, brown sugar, cold butter, cinnamon, salt, and optional nuts. The glaze uses powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and salt.
What size baking pan should I use?
For larger gatherings, use a 9×13-inch baking pan. For smaller groups, a 9-inch square pan works perfectly. Make sure to grease your chosen pan thoroughly before adding the batter to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
How do I store leftover coffee cake?
Store leftover coffee cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to one week or freeze for up to three months. When freezing, wrap in two layers of plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag.
Can I freeze this coffee cake?
Yes, this coffee cake freezes beautifully for up to three months. Cool the cake completely, then wrap it in two layers of plastic wrap and place in a zip-top freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve the texture.
What are some recipe variations I can try?
Popular variations include Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake with a rich cinnamon filling, Blueberry Coffee Cake with fresh berries and lemon zest, and Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake for an indulgent twist. Each variation maintains the original’s moist texture while offering unique flavors.
When is the best time to serve this coffee cake?
Serve the coffee cake at room temperature for the best texture and flavor, ideally after resting for at least 30 minutes post-baking. It pairs perfectly with coffee or tea like Earl Grey or English Breakfast, making it ideal for brunches and morning gatherings.
