Need a quick breakfast solution? Try this easy homemade coffee cake recipe made with cake mix and topped with a crumbly streusel, perfect for a family favorite weeknight treat, save for later

Irresistible Cake Mix Coffee Cake Recipe

Introduction

Imagine starting your day with a slice of moist, flavorful coffee cake that’s so easy to make, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. This irresistible cake mix coffee cake recipe is a game-changer for busy mornings, brunch gatherings, or anytime you crave something sweet and satisfying. The best part? It’s made with everyday ingredients, including a trusty cake mix, which simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor or creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite, offering a perfect blend of ease, flavor, and the freedom to get creative with your toppings and mix-ins.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of a cake mix with additional ingredients like cinnamon, sugar, and sometimes nuts or chocolate chips creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, using a cake mix makes the recipe highly accessible, as these mixes are readily available in most grocery stores.
Ease of preparation: One of the standout features of this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. With a cake mix as the base, you skip the step of mixing together flour, sugar, and other dry ingredients, saving you time and effort.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, this coffee cake recipe yields impressive results. The crumbly topping and the possibility of adding various mix-ins mean you can customize it to your taste, making it perfect for serving to guests or enjoying as a special treat.

Key Ingredients

The foundation of this recipe is a standard cake mix, preferably a yellow or butter cake mix for the best flavor. You’ll also need basic pantry staples like flour, sugar, and cinnamon for the crumb topping, along with melted butter to bind it all together. Eggs and milk are added to the cake mix to enhance moisture and richness. For added texture and flavor, consider including nuts (walnuts or pecans work well), chocolate chips, or dried fruit. Practical substitutions can be made based on dietary needs or preferences, such as using almond milk instead of regular milk or opting for gluten-free flour for those with gluten intolerance.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with butter or cooking spray. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and cinnamon for the crumb topping. Add in any nuts or chocolate chips you’re using and stir until they’re evenly distributed. Drizzle the melted butter over the dry ingredients and mix until the topping mixture is crumbly.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and milk. Mix according to the package instructions until well combined. The batter should be smooth and free of lumps. If you’re adding any mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit, fold them into the batter at this stage.
Step 3: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish. Evenly distribute the crumb topping over the batter, making sure to cover the entire surface. This topping is what gives the coffee cake its signature texture and flavor, so don’t be shy with it.
Step 4: Bake the coffee cake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the cake should be set. Remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Handy Tips

For an extra crunchy topping, try adding a handful of rolled oats or crushed cereal to the crumb mixture. This adds texture and a delightful crunch to each bite.
If you’re looking for a substitution for nuts, consider using seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for a nut-free alternative that still offers crunch and flavor.
Avoid overmixing the batter or the crumb topping, as this can lead to a dense coffee cake. Mix just until the ingredients come together, and then stop.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking this coffee cake is 350°F (175°C), and the baking time is approximately 35-40 minutes. However, these times can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the cake after 30 minutes. Signs of doneness include a golden brown top, a clean toothpick when inserted into the center, and the cake feeling set when you press on it gently.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this coffee cake comes from the crumb topping. To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure the butter is well incorporated into the dry ingredients, creating a mixture that’s evenly crumbly. During baking, this topping will set and become crispy, providing a beautiful contrast in texture to the moist cake beneath.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

For a shortcut to preparing the crumb topping, consider making it ahead of time and storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. This way, when you’re ready to bake, you can simply sprinkle it on and go.
To make cleanup easier, line your baking dish with parchment paper before adding the batter and crumb topping. This will prevent sticking and make removing the coffee cake from the pan a breeze.

Storage Tips

This coffee cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider wrapping it tightly and freezing it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight at room temperature or reheat it in the microwave.
For reheating, wrap a slice in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this coffee cake, it’s easy to make it look as good as it tastes. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then place it in a decorative tin or a gift basket filled with other sweet treats. Adding a ribbon or a gift tag with a personal message makes it an even more thoughtful gift. For a more rustic look, consider wrapping it in a piece of parchment paper and tying it with twine.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Different spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
🌟 Creative toppings: In addition to the standard crumb topping, consider adding a drizzle of glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, or sprinkling the top with cinnamon sugar before baking.
🌟 Ingredient swaps: For a chocolate version, use a chocolate cake mix and add chocolate chips to the batter. You can also substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative for a vegan version.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If your coffee cake turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Try mixing the ingredients just until they come together for a lighter texture.
Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have milk, you can use a non-dairy milk substitute. For eggs, flax eggs can be a good replacement in a pinch.
Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the coffee cake while it’s baking. If the top starts to get too brown before the inside is set, cover it with foil to prevent overbrowning.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, this coffee cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
Is it gluten-free? The standard recipe uses a traditional cake mix that contains gluten. However, you can make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free cake mix and ensuring all your ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double this recipe to make a larger coffee cake. Just keep in mind that you might need to adjust the baking time slightly.

Conclusion

This irresistible cake mix coffee cake recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal or gathering. With its ease of preparation, impressive results, and endless possibilities for customization, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or like to experiment with new ingredients, this recipe offers the perfect canvas. So go ahead, get creative, and share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!

Easy Cake Mix Coffee Morning Treat