If you’re craving a warm, comforting treat that comes together with minimal effort but maximum flavor, this Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel and Optional Nuts Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine biting into a moist, tender cake infused with vanilla and sour cream, topped with a perfectly crumbly cinnamon streusel that adds just the right amount of sweet crunch. Whether you’re making it for a casual breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or sharing it with friends over a cup of coffee, this recipe is a delightful crowd-pleaser that feels homemade without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything you need for this recipe is simple and pantry-friendly, yet each ingredient plays a key role in building the cake’s signature flavor and texture. From moistening the batter to creating that irresistible streusel topping, every element is essential.
- Yellow cake mix: The base of our coffee cake, providing a fluffy and sweet structure with ease.
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that keeps the cake tender.
- Vegetable oil or melted butter: Ensures richness and a soft crumb.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and add structure.
- Milk or water: Helps thin the batter for a perfect consistency.
- Vanilla extract: Elevates all the flavors with a warm, inviting aroma.
- Brown sugar: Provides that deep caramel sweetness in the streusel.
- Cinnamon: The spice star of the topping, adding fragrant warmth.
- Flour: Gives the streusel its crumbly texture.
- Melted butter: Binds the streusel ingredients and adds richness.
- Optional nuts (pecans or walnuts): Add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor boost.
- Optional mini chocolate chips: For a fun, melty surprise in every bite.
How to Make Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel and Optional Nuts Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or a bundt pan to ensure your coffee cake doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly shaped. Proper pan preparation is the first step toward cake success.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), vegetable oil (or melted butter), eggs, milk (or water), and vanilla extract. Mix gently until everything is just combined – overmixing can toughen the cake, so keep it light and smooth.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Streusel
Mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, and melted butter until crumbly. This streusel topping will create that deliciously sweet and crunchy texture that makes coffee cake irresistible.
Step 4: Layer the Batter and Streusel
Pour and spread half the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Scatter half of the streusel mixture on top. Then add the remaining batter, spreading it gently over the streusel layer. Finish by sprinkling the rest of the streusel on top—this is also the moment to add optional chopped nuts or chocolate chips, if you’re using them.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your coffee cake for 35 to 40 minutes if using a 9×13 inch pan, or 45 to 50 minutes if using a bundt pan. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 6: Cool and Optional Glaze
Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. For an extra cozy touch, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla to make a simple glaze, then drizzle it over the cooled cake for a sweet finish.
How to Serve Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel and Optional Nuts Recipe
Garnishes
Serving this coffee cake with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vanilla glaze can elevate its appearance and sweetness. For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped nuts or a pinch of cinnamon on top to highlight the flavors in the streusel.
Side Dishes
This coffee cake pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect companion for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon gatherings. Fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples can add a refreshing contrast to the cake’s sweet richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve slices on pretty plates with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist. Alternatively, cut the cake into small squares and arrange on a tiered platter for festive parties or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover coffee cake covered at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze the whole cake or individual slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To warm leftover coffee cake, pop a slice into the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or reheat in a 300°F oven until warmed through. This helps bring back the fresh-baked feel and lets the cinnamon aroma bloom again.
FAQs
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in this recipe?
Absolutely! Plain Greek yogurt works beautifully in place of sour cream, providing the same tanginess and moisture, plus a slight protein boost.
Is it necessary to add nuts or chocolate chips?
No, these are optional add-ins that add texture and flavor, but the coffee cake is delicious on its own with just the cinnamon streusel topping.
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
While yellow cake mix is best for the classic taste and texture, you can experiment with white or even spice cake mixes for fun variations.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
Using a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensuring other ingredients are gluten-free will work well. Just be cautious with additional toppings for cross-contamination.
What’s the best pan to use for baking?
Both a greased 9×13 inch pan or a bundt pan works well depending on your preference. The baking time will vary slightly as noted in the instructions.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel and Optional Nuts Recipe is truly one of those beloved homemade treasures that come together quickly but feel like a special treat. Whether you’re sharing with family, impressing guests, or just indulging yourself, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and warm memories. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite coffee cake!
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Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel and Optional Nuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake is a quick and delicious treat made from a simple yellow cake mix combined with sour cream and a cinnamon streusel topping. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy coffee break, it’s moist, tender, and topped with a sweet, buttery crumb that can be customized with nuts or chocolate chips. An optional glaze adds an extra layer of indulgence.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk or water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cinnamon Streusel
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ cup flour
- 3 Tbsp melted butter
Optional Add-ins
- Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
- Mini chocolate chips
Optional Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 Tbsp milk
- Splash of vanilla extract
Instructions
- Heat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or a bundt pan well to prevent sticking.
- Make the batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, sour cream, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth but be careful not to overmix to avoid making the cake dense.
- Mix the streusel: In a separate bowl, stir together the brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, and melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly and well combined.
- Layer it up: Spread half of the cake batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon streusel mixture over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top, then finish by sprinkling the remaining streusel and optional nuts or mini chocolate chips if using.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake. If using a 9×13 pan, bake for 35–40 minutes. For a bundt pan, bake for 45–50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool slightly & serve: Let the coffee cake cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s excellent served warm alongside your favorite coffee.
- Optional glaze: For an extra cozy touch, mix together 1 cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons of milk and a splash of vanilla. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled cake to add sweetness and moisture.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep it light and fluffy.
- You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and extra protein.
- Add chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips to the streusel topping for added texture and flavor.
- If you use a bundt pan, increase baking time accordingly and check doneness carefully.
- The optional glaze adds sweetness and moisture but can be omitted for a less sweet version.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheat slices gently in the microwave before serving for a warm treat.
