A Cake Mix Coffee Cake Recipe: Easy, Delicious, and Versatile
When it comes to baking, sometimes we all crave a delicious treat without the complexity of making everything from scratch. Enter cake mix coffee cake – a quick, simple, and surprisingly tasty dessert that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even an afternoon snack with a cup of coffee. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, using a box of cake mix as the base while adding your own personal touch with cinnamon, nuts, and more. If you’re a coffee cake lover or someone who enjoys making baking easier, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
For those looking to explore more coffee cake recipes or learn about the benefits of cake mix in baked goods, consider checking out these 5 delicious coffee cake recipes and how cake mix transforms your baking.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
This cake mix coffee cake recipe is an easy-to-follow guide that produces a moist and flavorful cake with a perfect crumb and rich cinnamon swirl. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, you’ll love how simple it is to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 box of yellow cake mix (choose your preferred brand)
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon flour (for the topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Stir well until everything is fully incorporated. The mixture will be thick, but that’s normal.
- Make the cinnamon topping: In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and flour. Mix well.
- Layering: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top. Add the remaining batter, and then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top. If you’re adding nuts, sprinkle them on top as well.
- Swirl: Use a knife or a spoon to gently swirl the cinnamon-sugar mixture into the batter. This will create a beautiful, marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the cake in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your delicious cake mix coffee cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea!
Advanced Techniques for a Perfect Cake Mix Coffee Cake
If you’re ready to take your cake mix coffee cake to the next level, here are a few advanced techniques to elevate the flavor and texture:
1. Adding a Streusel Topping
For an extra crunch and sweetness, try adding a streusel topping. This topping will add a crispy, buttery layer on top of your coffee cake. To make it, mix 1/2 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of cold butter, and a pinch of cinnamon in a bowl. Crumble it over the top of the cake before baking.
2. Layering the Cinnamon Swirl
Instead of just swirling the cinnamon topping, you can create multiple layers of cinnamon within the cake. After pouring the first half of the batter into the baking dish, sprinkle a generous amount of cinnamon-sugar mixture and layer it with more batter. Repeat the process until you run out of batter. This will create a more defined cinnamon flavor throughout.
3. Adding Fresh Fruit
You can incorporate fresh fruit into the coffee cake for extra flavor and moisture. Consider adding berries, apples, or even bananas to the batter. Just ensure the fruit is diced and not too wet, so it doesn’t affect the texture of the cake.
4. Using Different Cake Mixes
Experiment with different cake mix flavors to create unique variations of your cake mix coffee cake. For example, a spice cake mix can add depth and warmth, while a chocolate cake mix can give a richer twist to your coffee cake. Adjust the flavor profile by choosing complementary additions like chocolate chips or pumpkin puree.
5. Adding a Glaze
To give your cake an extra layer of flavor, drizzle it with a glaze. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract can take your coffee cake from good to great. Just whisk the ingredients together until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cake.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
Proper storage and maintenance of your cake mix coffee cake will ensure it stays fresh and moist for several days. Here’s how you can extend its shelf life:
Storing the Cake
Once your coffee cake has cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to preserve it for longer, consider refrigerating it.
Freezing for Later
If you want to keep your cake for a longer period, freezing is a great option. Slice the cake into individual portions and wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Reheating the Cake
If you’d like to warm up the coffee cake, heat it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warm. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, depending on your microwave’s power.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
This cake mix coffee cake recipe can be easily customized for various dietary needs. Here are some ideas for substitutions:
Gluten-Free Coffee Cake
If you need a gluten-free version, simply swap out the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix. Be sure to check the label for any other ingredients that may contain gluten. You may also want to add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the batter for extra fluffiness.
Dairy-Free Options
For a dairy-free coffee cake, substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or soy-based yogurt. You can also use a non-dairy milk like almond milk or oat milk in place of regular milk.
Lower Sugar Variations
If you’re looking to reduce sugar, opt for a sugar-free cake mix or use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit. You can also reduce the amount of brown sugar in the cinnamon swirl topping.
Vegan Coffee Cake
To make this recipe vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water for each egg). Use a plant-based oil (like coconut oil) and a dairy-free sour cream alternative.
FAQs About The Recipe
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Yes! You can easily switch out the yellow cake mix for other flavors such as spice, chocolate, or even lemon cake mix for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make this cake mix coffee cake a day or two ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature, and it will stay fresh and moist. If making ahead, consider adding the glaze or any toppings just before serving.
Can I use a bundt pan instead of a baking dish?
Yes, you can use a bundt pan to make a beautiful, circular coffee cake. Just be sure to grease and flour the pan thoroughly to avoid sticking.
How can I make this recipe more “coffee-flavored”?
To add a true coffee flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the batter, or add a coffee glaze made with powdered sugar and brewed coffee instead of milk.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
This cake mix coffee cake recipe offers a perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence. With minimal effort and a few key ingredients, you can create a mouth-watering cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast treat, a sweet snack, or a delightful dessert, this easy coffee cake recipe delivers on taste and texture every time.
Remember, this recipe is versatile – feel free to get creative with flavor variations, toppings, and even dietary substitutions. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll find endless ways to make this cake mix coffee cake your own!
Happy baking!